In a message dated 1/5/99 11:00:22 AM Central Standard Time,
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<< Aztec Healing Clay

 For the last year or so we have been using Aztec Healing Clay on all our
 cords, no alcohol or hydrogen peroxide at all. I have been very impressed
 by how rapidly these cords are falling off. No smell at all. We used the
 golden seal powder a few years ago, but I am much happier with the Aztec
 Healing Clay. I think the lack of moisture and the drawing power of the
 clay make for quickly dried up cords. >>

Recently, there was a case of infant tetanus in Texas caused by midwifery
practice of applying a local clay to the umbilical stump.  Applying "dirt" to
a wound is unwise in any age, IMHO.
Andrew MD FAAP
General practice pediatrician
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