Few months ago, awesome Judith sent me her wonderful products, Kishu. Here is their website.
You can purchase Kishu at their website store, or Rainbow Grocery (SF), or Staff of Life (Santa Cruz)

Kishu is a unique charcoal water-filter that has been used by the Japanese for centuries to purify the drinking water. This is exclusive to the forests of Wakayama. Holm oak trees are sustainable harvested then slowly fired in traditional kiln ovens over many days.

All you do is place the charcoal in a pitcher of tap water. Then it is immediately absorbs the impurities. It also puts healthy minerals like calcium and potassium. For optimal absorption, it’s good to let it sit overnight.

This charcoal makes the water taste almost sweet (in a good way). I can really taste “pure” water. VERY refreshing. One piece of this charcoal lasts up to six months. Then you can compost it! This products is good for both humans and environment!!!!

I am totally in love with this product. It has been only two months since I started using it. Now, I can’t drink tap water or even bottled water because this charcoal really makes water taste good and different! I stay hydrated longer too. The best part if that everything about this product is eco-friendly. Even the packaging can be composted!!! I cannot ask for anything better than this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: “Most charcoal water purification systems require the water to run through a filter.  Given that Kishu just sits in the water, how does it take out all the impurities?”

Answer:  “Charcoal is a natural absorber of impurities, whether it’s in the form of charcoal granules or a solid stick of charcoal. The absorption of impurities occurs whenever water comes into contact with the charcoal, no matter its form.  Commonly used plastic casings are simply holding the charcoal granules in a container as opposed to using the full stick of charcoal.”

Question:  “How long does one stick of Kishu last?”

Answer:  “One stick of Kishu lasts up to six months, purifying approximately 2 quarts of water per day.  It is recommended that the stick be boiled in a shallow pan of water for 10 minutes every month or so to keep the exterior pores open.”

Question:  “How do I know when the Kishu is no longer working?”

Answer:  “After six months, boil the Kishu stick again.  If you don’t see a profusion of bubbles circulating around the Kishu stick when it is returned to the pitcher and water is added, the stick has reached its capacity to absorb toxins. At that point, you can either compost it in the garden or use it as an art object in your home-Kishu is beautiful after all!”

How It Works

Kishu is sterilized and ready to use upon opening the package.

Simply place the Kishu in your pitcher, your water bottle, your tea kettle and add water. Although Kishu begins absorbing impurities immediately, its optimal effect takes about 5 hours.

Because Kishu is so absorbent it will take on the odors in a refrigerator if stored in an uncovered pitcher. (See About)

Every 1-2 months, simply boil Kishu in a shallow pan of water for 10 minutes.  Allow to dry.  Then reuse.

Kishu is completely compostable and, in fact, will add nutrients to the soil, so bury it in your garden after you have finished using it.

Kishu’s packaging is also completely compostable so you can put it in your compost and it will break-down completely.