Description:

Activated Charcoal Digestive Health Basic Nutrition 30 Capsules is a dietary supplement providing activated charcoal (typically from coconut shells or similar sources) to support digestive health. It adsorbs (binds) unwanted substances, gases, and toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, helping relieve occasional bloating, flatulence (gas), indigestion, and mild digestive discomfort. It is not a detox “cure-all” but offers symptomatic relief for gas-related issues and may aid in minor toxin binding. In Ghana (Accra), such basic activated charcoal capsules are affordable OTC supplements available in pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Allschoolabs, or similar retailers) as part of digestive wellness or occasional bloating support.

Prescription:

Over-the-counter (OTC) dietary supplement. No prescription required; freely available in pharmacies and retail outlets in Ghana. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before use if you have digestive disorders, are pregnant/breastfeeding, or take medications (charcoal can reduce absorption of drugs/nutrients).

Therapeutic Category:

Adsorbent / Digestive Aid Supplement (Activated charcoal for symptomatic relief of gas, bloating, and occasional digestive upset).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient: Activated charcoal (typically 200–560 mg per capsule; common doses in 30-capsule packs are 200–300 mg, from coconut shells or wood, highly porous for adsorption). Other ingredients (excipients): Gelatin or vegetarian capsule shell (e.g., hypromellose), magnesium stearate (anti-caking), silica, microcrystalline cellulose (filler). No additional actives in basic formulations.

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Basic Nutrition Activated Charcoal 30 Capsules (standard 30-count bottle, often 200–300 mg per capsule). Related variants: Higher-dose (e.g., 500–1000 mg) or larger packs (60/100 capsules), powder form, or combined products (e.g., with digestive enzymes). The queried 30 capsules is the basic entry-level pack.

Consume Type:

Oral – Capsule (swallow whole with water; do not chew or open).

Directions/Usage:

Adults: Typically 1–2 capsules as needed (e.g., with meals or when bloating/gas occurs), or 2 capsules between meals with plenty of water (at least 8–12 oz/240–350 ml to prevent constipation).

• Use occasionally or short-term (not daily long-term without advice).
• Take at least 2 hours before/after medications/vitamins (charcoal adsorbs them, reducing effectiveness).
• Do not exceed recommended dose or use continuously for >1–2 weeks without medical guidance.
• Drink extra water to aid passage and prevent constipation.

Common Side Effects:

Generally safe short-term; common/mild:

• Black stools (normal, harmless).
• Constipation (most frequent; drink more water).
• Stomach upset or bloating (if overused). Rare: Vomiting, intestinal blockage (with excessive use or low fluid intake). No systemic toxicity expected with proper use.

Package Type:

Plastic bottle or jar of 30 capsules (with screw cap; often white/opaque bottle with label showing nutritional info, dosage, and expiry; may include desiccant packet).

Storage Advice:

Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature (below 25–30°C), away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep tightly closed. Out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Dietary supplement—not a substitute for medical treatment or diagnosis of digestive issues.
• Consult doctor before use if pregnant/breastfeeding, have intestinal blockage/slow motility, chronic constipation, or on medications (charcoal reduces absorption of many drugs/nutrients—take separately).
• Do not use continuously long-term (risk of nutrient malabsorption or constipation).
• Drink plenty of water (at least 8 oz per dose) to prevent GI blockage.
• If severe constipation, abdominal pain, or vomiting occurs, stop and seek medical care.
• Keep out of reach of children (overdose unlikely but unnecessary).

Product Substitutes:

Similar activated charcoal capsules in Ghana (often 30’s or larger packs):

• Basic Nutrition or generic activated charcoal capsules (widely stocked).
• Spring Valley Activated Charcoal (imported, similar dose).
• Other brands like Nature’s Way, NOW Foods, or local generics (200–560 mg per capsule).
• Powder form or higher-dose (e.g., 1000 mg) if needed. Consult pharmacist in Accra (e.g., Scab Pharmacy) for availability.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Basic Nutrition (likely a private label or generic brand sourced for Ghana market). Marketed/distributed by local importers/pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Allschoolabs, or similar Accra retailers).

Country of Origin:

United States (USA) or India (typical for Basic Nutrition activated charcoal capsules; often US-branded generics or Indian imports for Ghana market).