Montmorillonite and smecta
Montmorillonite and smecta is a natural clay mineral belonging to the smectite group. Smectites are natural clay minerals that have several clinical applications in medicine (absorbents, antacids and antidiarrheal). The compounds are absorbents (enterosorbents), their high absorption capacity aid in the absorption of toxins within the gastrointestinal tract. The contact effect of medical clay on the GI mucosa creates a protective layer on the mucosa, therefore also serving a protective purpose. Due to their muco-adhesive nature, smectites create a barrier and prevents further damage on the mucosa. Smectite compounds also have antibacterial and antiviral properties in that they bind to the pathogens and allow enhanced elimination of the microbes and therefore reducing the chances of possible secondary infections. Smectites have not only been found to be useful in gastrointestinal mucosa, but compounded mouthwashes containing these compounds also play an important protective role to the oral mucosa. 4142 The first clinical trial used montmorillonite as a base for a compounded paste. 5 grams of montmorillonite was used in conjunction with tea oil and Vit C for the formulation. In the treatment group the paste was used to adequately cover the oral mucosa and ulcer surfaces three times a day for duration of five days. The paste gave a positive outcome in terms of pain reduction and improved healing time for the patients. 25The second trial used smecta powder 2-3 times a day to adequately cover the oral mucosa in conjunction with other interventions. The trial also had positive results in the management of oral mucositis.