Activated Coconut Charcoal, Prewashed is used for water filters. Activated Charcoal is a type of carbon prepared by distillation of such materials as wood, vegetables and coconut shells. It is a fine, black powder composed of largely pure carbon. Activated Charcoal has been treated with oxygen to open up millions of tiny pores between the carbon atoms. The large surface area of Activated Charcoal confers a great adsorptive capacity to this material. It is this great adsorptive capacity that is the basis for its many industrial as well as medical uses. If you wish to take activated charcoal internally we have Activated Charcoal Capsules, Item#: 45171. Activated Charcoal is a gastrointestinal adsorbent. It is a natural internal detoxifier commonly used to help cleanse the body of unwanted chemicals Activated Charcoal adsorbs these substances and carries them out of the body. Activated charcoal is not absorbed via the gastrointestinal tract, and all ingested Activated Charcoal is excreted in the feces. Caution: As with any dietary or herbal supplement, you should advise your health care practitioner of the use of this product. If you have ulcers, gallstones or are nursing, pregnant, or considering pregnancy, you should consult your health care provider prior to taking this product.