Read This Before Adding Activated Charcoal To Your Cocktails
Activated charcoal, a black powder made from exposing carbon-based materials like coal, wood, bamboo, and coconut shells to intense heat, is known for its ability to remove toxins from the body (via Integris Health). As such, it has become incredibly popular in wellness circles, with people using it on their skin, teeth, and in a host of "detox drinks." Activated charcoal is being added to smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and even cocktails.
When added to liquors like vodka, gin, tequila, and rum, activated charcoal turns the drink black, lending itself to a host of creative cocktails for Halloween or any other time you want to take your drink to the dark side. It will even temporarily turn your tongue black for added effect.
While you don't need to use a lot of the ingredient to get the desired look, there are some things to consider before making activated charcoal cocktails more than an occasional fun adult beverage.
Some things to consider
When removing toxins from the body, activated charcoal isn't discriminatory, and, therefore, may remove some things you don't want — like nutrients and prescription drugs. According to Difford's Guide, activated charcoal can absorb up to 100 times its weight when ingested.
Since activated charcoal can absorb so much, so quickly, it is important to take any medications, vitamins, or supplements at least four hours before consuming an activated charcoal cocktail, according to Difford's Guide. They even suggest steering clear of the ingredient in your cocktails if you take prescription medications, including birth control. Activated charcoal can even cause constipation, so be aware that your body might respond differently to an activated charcoal cocktail as opposed to your typical drinks.
But if you've heeded the warnings and want to try drinks like June Gloom, Death Before Dinner, and Tequila Moonrise, an activated charcoal cocktail may be just the thing for you.