Binchotan, or white charcoal, has recently emerged as something of a cure-all. Made from raw Japanese oak, the paradoxically named carbon product has been
touted for its purifying, vitalizing, and beautifying properties; its varied forms taken include
water-bottle filter,
radiation-shielding bracelet, even
edible powder (dissolved for
detox purposes). Below are some of the newest products to make use of this remedial natural material.
Binchotan Toothbrush: This visually arresting take on the traditional toothbrush, conceived by Japanese design firm
Morihata, features binchotan powder-blended bristles, to the benefit of the brusher’s tooth health. Binchotan’s resistance to the bacteria that often grows in the fibers of ordinary toothbrush bristles makes it a natural choice for the plaque-fighting tool, and its deodorant properties help to vanquish and prevent halitosis. On top of its superior tooth-cleaning capability, the binchotan bristles are also said to emit negative ions that shield against radiation—a potential point of comfort to the
habitual cell phone user. Brushes are available online for under $7, a true bargain for any dental obsessive.
Binchotan Home Accents: Part visual installation, part home “appliance,”
Sort of Coal’s sculptural trio of Binchotan trunks acts as a natural air purifier and ion charger. When placed anywhere in the home, the
Hakutan installation will cleanse the surrounding air, absorbing odors and regulating humidity. When the stumps become oversaturated with steam or scents, they can be set in the sun to dry out; so, in theory, they’ll function properly forever. Rather in the same spirit as
decor-integrated houseplants, which add color and life to interiors (while quietly upping indoor oxygen levels), the Hakutan sculpture offers the design-minded a beautiful way to keep their interior air pure, clean, and ion-free.
Binchotan Soap: At the somewhat steep price of $32 per bar,
this white charcoal facial soap multi-tasker promises to purify, exfoliate, moisturize, stimulate, and cleanse, all in a single wash. The bar’s
binchotan base is combined with naturally fragrant components like chamomile, apricot, carrot seed, and rosemary, to create an herbal blend that its seller
Dar Gintane vows will cut back on bacterial build-up and stimulate blood flood, ultimately improving the skin’s texture and tone over time. The strictest of binchotan believers may also want to invest in the shop’s
binchotan konjac facial puff, for a double dose of purification and exfoliation.
