Activated charcoal is a black, odorless, flavorless powder that has been used since ancient times to treat various ailments. Nowadays, it’s most commonly utilized in medical settings to treat drug overdoses or as an emergency anti-poison remedy. Activated charcoal is thought to offer several other benefits, including less gas and flatulence, lower cholesterol levels, and improved kidney function. Some people claim that it helps whiten your teeth, filters water, and even cures hangovers. Activated charcoal is charcoal that has been treated with oxygen at very high temperatures to make it more porous. This treatment changes its internal structure, reducing the size of its pores and increasing its surface area. The resulting fine black powder is either sold as is or encapsulated as supplements. Activated charcoal is also added to various food and nonfood products, from ice cream to toothpaste to soaps, scrubs, facial and hair/scalp products.