First Aid

Poisoning & Accidental Ingestion

First-response support for accidental ingestion of toxins, spoiled food, or chemicals. Call Poison Control (US: 1-800-222-1222) first — do not induce vomiting unless instructed.

Prevention

Key nutrients: Glutathione precursors (NAC, glycine), antioxidants, fiber, water.

Eat regularly: Cruciferous veg, garlic, cilantro, parsley, berries, leafy greens, filtered water.

Store chemicals and medications out of children's reach, label clearly, never store toxins in food containers, keep Poison Control number visible.

Call Poison Control FIRST

OtherStrong evidence

EMERGENCY: US: 1-800-222-1222. UK: 111. EU: 112. Have the substance, amount, time, and patient weight ready. Do NOT induce vomiting unless explicitly told to — many substances (caustics, petroleum) cause worse damage on the way back up.

Activated charcoal

OtherStrong evidence

ONLY if instructed by Poison Control or ER — typical adult dose 25–50 g in water. Effective within the first hour for many drug overdoses and food poisoning. NOT for caustics (lye, acids), petroleum products, alcohols, or iron — and not for unconscious patients.

⚠ Cautions: Get professional guidance first. Causes black stools and may cause constipation.

Bentonite clay

OtherTraditional use

1 tsp food-grade bentonite in water — traditional binder for mild food poisoning and mycotoxin exposure when charcoal isn't available. Take well away from medications.

Milk thistle (silymarin)

HerbStrong evidence

After the acute phase: 200–400 mg silymarin 3×/day supports liver detoxification of ingested toxins, especially mushroom (Amanita) and acetaminophen poisoning.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

OtherStrong evidence

The hospital antidote for acetaminophen overdose. Outside the ER, 600–1200 mg replenishes glutathione during recovery from chemical or drug exposure.

Cilantro

HerbTraditional use

Fresh cilantro daily during recovery — traditional heavy-metal and toxin binder; pair with chlorella.

Chlorella

OtherModerate evidence

3–5 g/day of broken-cell-wall chlorella binds heavy metals, mycotoxins, and many chemical toxins.

Plenty of water

FoodStrong evidence

Sip filtered water continuously to support kidney clearance — unless contraindicated by the specific toxin.

Nux vomica (homeopathic)

OtherTraditional use

30C, 3–5 pellets every 1–2 hours for poisoning from overindulgence, alcohol, drugs, or spoiled food — classic 'morning-after' remedy.

Arsenicum album (homeopathic)

OtherTraditional use

30C, 3–5 pellets every 1–2 hours for food poisoning with burning pains, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and anxiety. A classic remedy for acute gastroenteritis from spoiled food.

A note of caution. Natural doesn't mean risk-free. Herbs and supplements can interact with medications, affect pregnancy, or worsen certain conditions. Speak with a qualified clinician before starting a new regimen, especially if you take prescriptions.