evidence: Because activated charcoal traps toxins in the gut, it may work to prevent diarrhea-causing bacteria and drugs from being absorbed into the body. In fact, the authors of a 2017 review state that activated charcoal is a suitable treatment option for diarrhea, particularly because the supplement has relatively few side effects compared with other antidiarrheal treatments. (21) That said, the Mayo Clinic states that activated charcoal has not been shown to be effective in relieving diarrhea. More research is needed to confirm whether activated charcoal can in fact play a role in treating and preventing diarrhea. (11) [...] Though activated charcoal may be an effective detoxifier in some cases — for acute poisonings in particular — the jury is still out as to whether it can help with diarrhea, gas, kidney problems, cosmetic issues, and many other touted benefits. Don’t try to treat poisonings or overdoses with activated charcoal on your own, either. (14,15,21,24,25)