Category: Geophagia

While soil contains a wealth of minerals essential for plant growth, our bodies are not equipped to absorb these elements from dirt directly. A person would need to consume an extremely large and dangerous quantity of soil to get even minimal nutritional value, which could also lead to serious health complications like constipation and intestinal blockage.

Geophagia, the practice of intentionally eating clay or dirt, has existed in various cultures for millennia, often linked to perceived health benefits or cultural traditions. However, modern health experts universally agree that consuming untreated clay poses significant and often severe health risks to the body.

Geophagia, the intentional practice of consuming earth or soil-like substances, is documented across many human cultures and in over 100 primate species. This tradition, however, carries significant debate regarding the perceived benefits of eating clay soil versus its serious potential dangers.

Dating back to ancient civilizations, the practice of consuming clay, known as geophagia, has a long and complex history across many cultures. Proponents claim several health benefits, but understanding what is edible clay made of is crucial to distinguishing its composition and potential dangers.