Diatomaceous Earth Uses

Diatomaceous earth is made up of fossils of tiny algae-like organisms called diatoms. It is a soft white powder made of 80 to 90 percent silica. Many people are not aware of the many uses and benefits of diatomaceous earth.

Unlike many silica sources, the silica found in diatomaceous earth is highly absorbable by the human body. Its high absorption rate makes it an excellent supplement for health benefits. Many people are not aware of the many uses and benefits of diatomaceous earth.

Not only is it a health-promoting supplement, but it is also useful for cleaning and pest control. We have put together this guide to try to pass on more information about how to use diatomaceous earth.

Diatomaceous Earth Uses and Benefits for Health

Use only food grade diatomaceous earth for human or pet consumption. If you choose to take diatomaceous earth for health benefits, you must use food-grade diatomaceous earth.

Industrial grade or pool grade diatomaceousearth contains impurities that may not be healthy for the body. Many sources of industrial grade diatomaceous earth has also been heat-treated, and it no longer has the properties that provide health benefits.

Take Diatomaceous Earth for Detoxification

Diatomaceous earth carries a negative charge, so it attracts positively charged toxins and heavy metals from the body and flushes them out. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that the silica diatomaceous earth helps eliminate aluminum and other heavy metals from the body.(..)

Diatomaceous Earth Fights Parasites

Parasitic infections are common, usually caught after exposure to animals or as a result of poor sanitation. Fortunately, diatomaceous earth is one of the most useful ways to get rid of parasites for both humans and pets.

Diatomaceousearth kills roundworms, heartworms, tapeworms, pinworms, hookworms, and threadworms.

Diatomaceous Earth Improve Joint and Ligament Health

Naturally occurring silica in diatomaceous earth is necessary for joint and ligament health. Diatomaceous earth supplies silica for the production of collagen to lubricate joints and restore the natural flexibility.

A 2007 study in the Journal of Nutrition Health and Aging showed that silica is beneficial to bone and connective tissue and can reduce the symptoms of arthritis.

Cleans the Skin and Teeth

Diatomaceous earth is mildly abrasive, making it useful as a cleanser for the skin and teeth. It is often used in skincare products as an exfoliant and toothpaste. It absorbs harmful toxins and leaves the skin and teeth clean and smooth.

Mix coconut oil with diatomaceous earth and add a drop or two of peppermint essential oil. You can also pour a little glycerin in, as well.

Make a Face Mask

Its absorbent properties make diatomaceous earth a perfect component for a face mask. It absorbs excess oils and toxins from the skin and improves its appearance. Once a week, add diatomaceous earth to your regular face mask formula.

Or, mix diatomaceous earth with a little water to make a thick paste. Apply a thin layer to the skin and allow it to remain on the skin for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse and pat your face dry.

Use Diatomaceous Earth as a Deodorant

Diatomaceous earth kills odor-causing bacteria and absorbs toxins and moisture. It is safe for all skin types and will not irritate your skin.

You can choose a pleasantly scented essential oil to scent it if you like. Try our recipe for diatomaceous earth deodorant.

Sift the cornstarch or arrowroot with diatomaceous earth. Add coconut oil and essential oils and stir well. Rub the mixture under your arms. A little is all you need. Store the mixture in a suitable container.

Improve Bone Density

Calcium and vitamin D are usually given to improve bone growth, but most people don’t realize that the body cannot absorb calcium without the addition of silica.

Taking silica in the form of diatomaceous earth helps the body absorb and use the calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus to form healthy bones. It speeds the healing of fractures and helps prevent osteoporosis.

Helps Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

Current research into Alzheimer’s disease links it to the presence of aluminum in the brain. Most of the aluminum comes from drinking water.

Adding silica, in the form of diatomaceous earth, to the drinking water or the diet helped prevent the aluminum from being absorbed. Research shows that it lowered aluminum concentrations in the brain, bones, liver, spleen, and kidneys.

Diatomaceous Earth Improves Heart Health

Silica from diatomaceous earth fortifies the blood vessels and strengthens heart tissue. It also lowers cholesterol, removes plaque, and keeps the arteries and veins elastic. Silica also plays a role in regulating blood pressure.

Diatomaceous Earth Reduces Cholesterol

Unhealthy fats in the digestive tract are absorbed and trapped by diatomaceous earth and removed from the body. By reducing the unhealthy fats, diatomaceous earth effectively reduces the bad cholesterol level in the body.

Use Diatomaceous Earth as an Exfoliant

Diatomaceous earth is mildly abrasive and makes an excellent exfoliant alone or mixed into your favorite cleanser.

When properly used, it gently removes dead skin cells and cleans the skin, soaking up excess oils. It leaves the skin soft, supple, and glowing.

Mix the ingredients to form a thick paste. Place a small amount on your fingertips and scrub the skin gently in a circular motion. Allow it to dry, if desired, or rinse it off immediately. Do not leave it on too long; it can dry the skin.

Diatomaceous Earth Prevents Wrinkles and Signs of Premature Aging

Silica is an excellent support mineral for skin and connective tissues. Collagen is mostly made of silica and is responsible for the elasticity of the skin and its ability to repair itself.

Degrading of connective tissue and a lack of collagen causes wrinkles and sagging skin. Regular diatomaceous earth supplementation replaces the silica needed to produce collagen and support the connective tissues.

Diatomaceous Earth Supports Healthy Hair

Our hair is rich in silica and requires it to grow and shine. A good supplementation plan using diatomaceous earth will stimulate hair growth and help prevent hair loss. When silica is plentiful in the body, hair grows in healthy and shiny.

Silica Supports the Immune System

Diatomaceous earth supports the immune system and its ability to produce the antibodies we need to fight disease. Silica found in diatomaceous earth is essential to many of the body’s systems, including the immune system. It also removes toxins and kills off parasites, allowing the immune system to function better.

Diatomaceous Earth for Diabetes

Recent studies suggest that silica has a positive effect on diabetes and blood sugar control. Before trying diatomaceous earth for diabetes control, you must consult your doctor.

Diatomaceous earth can absorb some medications and make them less effective, so use caution. Work with a doctor who is knowledgeable about supplements and natural medicine.

Promote Regular Bowel Movements and a Healthy Colon

As the diatomaceous earth moves through the intestines and bowels, it absorbs toxins and cleans out the digestive tract. Over time, the intestines are scrubbed clean of all the mucus and debris that has collected, bowel movements become more regular, and the colon is clean and healthier.

Diatomaceous Earth for Weight Loss

I can find no research that supports using diatomaceous earth for weight loss, yet many people report that taking diatomaceous earth helps them lose weight. We do know that DE detoxes the body and supports many of the body functions so that it may have some effects on the metabolism or the body functions.

If you try diatomaceous earth for weight loss, leave us a comment and let us know if it worked for you.

Diatomaceous Earth for Candida

Because diatomaceous earth is considered a treatment for many microbial diseases, many people are now using it to treat candida or yeast infections. There is currently no research that supports the use of diatomaceous earth for Candida, but many people claim that it works for them.

By flushing out the toxins and unhealthy materials that Candida cling to and that encourage its growth. If you try diatomaceous earth for Candida, please leave us a comment and let us know whether it works for you.

Diatomaceous Earth Uses for Pest Control in the House

Diatomaceous earth has many household uses, both inside and outside the home. If bugs are driving you crazy, DE is what you need. What kills spiders and roaches? Diatomaceous earth, of course. See how easy it is to get rid of unwanted insects with this powder.

Diatomaceous Earth Kills Insects Safely

Food grade diatomaceous earth kills cockroaches, bed bugs, stink bugs, ants, fleas, spiders, silverfish, dust, and spider mites. It’s also effective to get rid of flour mites and many other tiny pests.

The abrasive diatoms create tiny cuts in the insect’s skin or outer shell and dry it out, killing the insect slowly. It takes a day or two to get rid of bed bugs and other pests, but it does work.

How to Use Diatomaceous Earth to Kill Insects

Put a small amount of diatomaceous earth into a squirt bottle and shake it to create dust in the bottle. To use diatomaceous earth for mealybug control and to eliminate other insects, puff the dust directly onto the insect or into areas where infestations are found.

Alternatively, apply a fine layer to floors and countertops with a hand duster. You do not need a large amount. As insects move past the diatomaceous earth, it will adhere to them and eventually kill them. DE is one of the best home remedies for killing spider crickets in the house and outside.

Since it contains no harmful chemicals, using diatomaceous earth to kill flies and other bugs is safe around children and pets, and can even be used in the kitchen.

>> More on DE for natural pest control: Ways to get rid of silverfish

Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Diatomaceous earth is a safe and cheap way to get rid of bed bugs. It is easy to use and safe for children and pets. It kills the bed bugs by absorbing the natural oily protective layer and dehydrating the bug. To permanently eliminate bed bugs, apply it to all areas of your home that may harbor them.

Apply a fine layer to the mattress, furniture, carpeting, stuffed animals, and other nearby surfaces. Leave the diatomaceous earth in place for several weeks and reapply after vacuuming or cleaning.

Diatomaceous earth kills the adult bed bugs, but more may hatch, so you need to keep it in place long enough to kill the next generation.

Kill Fleas and Ticks on Dogs

Brush food grade diatomaceous earth into your dog’s fur as a natural tick repellent. Also apply it to the dog’s bedding, carpets, and any other places where fleas may hide.

It’s also quite easy to use DE for ticks in your garden and backyard. Spread a fine layer throughout when you are not expecting rain. Reapply if the DE gets wet.

It is perfectly safe for your dog and cats, as long as you keep it out of the eyes and they don’t inhale it. Avoid creating a cloud of dust as you apply it.

Keep Bugs Out of Food Supplies

Sprinkle diatomaceous earth on your pantry shelves as a gnat trap DIY style to kill pests that may want to sample your food, or add a small amount to grains, beans, and legumes to prevent insect infestations.

It is safe for use in food and kills pests as they hatch, preventing the spread of insects in the pantry.

Defeat Indoor Ants

Indoor ants are predictable, and this works in your favor. They travel the same pathways into the house, with each ant following in previous ants’ footsteps.

You can get rid of them by placing a light dusting of diatomaceous earth in their path — also dust around doors, window sills, and other points of entry. A very light dusting is best. If you put down too much, they tend to go around it.

Another excellent home remedy is to kill sugar ants with Borax if you have some on hand for your laundry.

Diatomaceous Earth Benefits in the Garden

DE is a simple solution against all kinds of bugs. Use diatomaceous earth for plant pests both indoors and out.

Kill Garden Pests

Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around your garden as a homemade snail killer and to destroy beetles, bugs, and other pests. Use a bulb puffer to puff it directly onto the bugs when possible and sprinkle it on the ground and into cracks and crevices where bugs hide. It is a completely safe pesticide and works on food crops with no safety concerns.

Diatomaceous Earth in the Compost Pile

Diatomaceous earth performs double duty in the compost pile. It will eliminate odors while killing pests. Maggot control with DE is easy and works great as it does not affect beneficial organisms such as worms and is safe for garden use.

Feed It to Chickens and other Farm Animals

A small amount of diatomaceous earth added to chicken feed helps chickens better absorb calcium and produce stronger egg shells. It also controls odors and pests in the coop. For all animals, it kills internal parasites and removes toxins.

Get Rid of Anthills

If you are finding anthills in your yard and garden, diatomaceous earth is an excellent way to get rid of them.

When ants come into contact with diatomaceous earth, it dries out their exoskeletons and kills them. Follow our steps for getting rid of anthills.

How to Get Rid of Anthills using Diatomaceous Earth

Using a shovel, remove the top of the anthill. Stir the mound with a stick or the shovel handle. Generously apply diatomaceous earth to the mound and mix it into the anthill. Sprinkle more on the top of the anthill and apply diatomaceous earth around the outside of the anthill.

Treat all anthills similarly and treat new ones as they are established. Consistency will eliminate all of the ants over time. The same holds true when you use diatomaceous earth for fungus gnats in your houseplant soil.

Improve Your Soil

Diatomaceous earth can absorb and hold water in the soil without interfering with natural drainage. DE is safe for houseplants and is often used as a soil conditioner in potting soils and as a growing medium for hydroponic gardens.

You can use any grade of diatomaceous earth as a soil conditioner; this is one of the few uses where food grade is not required. Mix it into the soil before planting your garden or follow the way to spread diatomaceous earth on the lawn to fertilize it and reduce pests.

Use It as a Barrier to New Pests

When planting your garden, sprinkle diatomaceous earth on the surface of the soil around the outside of the garden and between plants. It will help prevent invading pests and get rid of existing ones.

Diatomaceous Earth Uses Around the House

Diatomaceous Earth for Water Filtration

Water, beer, and other liquids are filtered with diatomaceousearth to remove very fine particles and to kill parasites, viruses, and bacteria. It purifies the water and removes heavy metal toxins.

Diatomaceous earth is used in many commercial filtration products for water, beer, wine, fish tanks, and swimming pools. It removes fine particles that would clog paper filters.

Use Diatomaceous Earth as an Abrasive Cleanser

Diatomaceous earth is mildly abrasive and works well as a polish or abrasive cleanser. Use it to remove burned on food and oils from pots and pans. Use a little on the toilet bowl brush for a little extra cleaning power. You can use diatomaceous earth in the same ways you would use commercial cleansers.

Diatomaceous Earth is Absorbent

Use it to clean up oil or water based spills. You can also use it in homemade kitty litter to absorb liquid and odors. Sprinkle a little over spilled cooking oils or motor oils to absorb them before cleaning up.

Diatomaceous Earth Absorbs Odors

It works to remove odors from garbage pails, sweaty gym shoes, and the kitty litter box. Use it to soak up food odors in the refrigerator or anywhere you need to remove odors. Use it in the same ways you would use baking soda for deodorizing.

Remove Stains from Clothing

Because diatomaceous earth is absorbent, it can remove oil stains from surfaces and clothing.

Work a small amount of diatomaceous earth into the stain and allow it to absorb the oil, then wash as usual.

Remove Carpet Stains

Because of its absorbent properties, the diatomaceous earth makes a perfect carpet cleaner for removing stains.

Rub a generous amount of diatomaceous earth into the stain and allow it to sit for a few hours. Vacuum up the diatomaceous earth and the stain with it. It may take several applications to eradicate the stain.

Deodorize Your Carpets

Pet smells, and other carpet odors quickly disperse with diatomaceous earth. Dust your carpet with diatomaceous earth and brush it in with a cleaning brush or broom. Leave it in for 24 hours, then vacuum it up. DE is one of the best DIY carpet deodorizer remedies; your carpet will smell fresh and clean.

Polish Your Faucets and Other Fixtures

Make a paste of DE and vinegar or lemon juice and use it to polish bathroom faucets, sinks, and showers for deep cleaning. Diatomaceous earth is a gentle abrasive and suitable for cleaning and polishing metals.

Keep Your Silver from Tarnishing

Dust your silverware and silver jewelry with a little diatomaceous earth, then wrap it in thin cotton or muslin cloth and store it in a container or plastic bag. Diatomaceous earth is one of the best homemade remedies to clean silver as it absorbs the chemicals in the air that cause the silver to tarnish.

Diatomaceous Earth for Clean Hair

Add a little diatomaceous earth and coconut oil or MCT oil to your shampoo once a week and reap the benefits. Diatomaceous earth helps clean the hair, strengthens it, and removes odors. Don’t scrub your hair with it; just give it a mild massage. Rinse and follow it up with a gentle conditioner.

As a Thermal Barrier

The thermal properties of diatomaceous earth make it a useful insulating material. It is used commercially to insulate for use with cryogenics. Some vacuum thermal spaces are packed withdiatomaceous earth to increase the insulating properties. You can use diatomaceous earth as an insulator in a variety of home projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is DiatomaceousEarth Healthy?

The silica content is what makes diatomaceous earth so beneficial for our bodies. Silica plays an essential part in many body functions, including the absorption of other minerals.

Silica occurs everywhere, but most of it is not usable by the human body. Diatomaceous earth contains silica in a form that is easily absorbed by our bodies. By replenishing the silica levels in our bodies, we can improve or reverse many chronic health problems.

Why Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth?

There are two grades of diatomaceous earth, food grade, and industrial grade or pool grade. Food grade diatomaceous earth is obtained from freshwater sources and is exceptionally pure, while pool grade diatomaceous earth comes from salt water sources and has many contaminants.

Food grade diatomaceous earth is completely safe for consumption by humans and animals. Industrial grade diatomaceous earth and pool grade diatomaceous earth is also heat treated which melts it slightly and smooths out the sharp edges that provide so much of the health benefits. Always use food grade diatomaceous earth for human and pet consumption.

Where Can I Buy Diatomaceous Earth?

Most of the diatomaceous earth you find in the home improvement stores is pool grade and not suitable for human use. Food grade diatomaceous earth is available online and at farm stores. You may also find it in the supplements aisles.

What are the Beneficial Components of Diatomaceous Earth?

Silica is the major component of diatomaceous earth and occurs in an easily absorbable form, so most people use it for the silica content and silica provides most of the health benefits. Diatomaceous earth also contains calcium, magnesium, gallium, sodium, titanium dioxide, and other trace minerals.

Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe for Pets?

Yes, DE is safe for use on pets and is beneficial if used correctly. Use only food grade diatomaceous earth for pets and take care that your pet does not breathe it in or get it in their eyes.

Diatomaceous Earth for Dogs

How Much Diatomaceous Earth Should I Give My Dog?

Many people use diatomaceous earth to kill fleas and prevent flea infestations, but it is also useful as a nutritional supplement for dogs. Dogs who receive a regular diatomaceous earth supplement have a better appetite, metabolism, and digestion.

Their improved health reflects in their healthier coat. Mix diatomaceous earth into your dog’s food daily. Follow our dosing guide to determine how much diatomaceous earth to give your dog.

Diatomaceous Earth for Cats

Like dogs, cats also benefit from a daily dose of food grade diatomaceous earth. Follow these recommendations for dosing your cat.

How to Mix Diatomaceous Earth into Pet Food

Safety Concerns about Diatomaceous Earth

Food grade diatomaceous earth is considered safe, and no adverse side effects are known. It has been approved by the FDA as a supplement and can be used by anyone, but you should consult with your doctor before taking diatomaceous earth. It can interfere with some medications, eliminating them, or making them less effective. However, there are a few health concerns.

First, avoid getting diatomaceous earth in your eyes. It is extremely drying and will irritate your eyes. If you do get DE dust in your eyes, wash it out with a continuous stream of water and do not rub your eyes.

Second, diatomaceous earth dust is very fine and can be irritating to lung tissue if you breathe it in. It can accumulate in the lungs and lymph nodes if you are repeatedly exposed. Avoid breathing the dust and wear a face mask when using it in ways that create a large amount of dust.

It is always possible that you could have a negative reaction to any supplement. While a response is highly unlikely, you should begin with a small dose, approximately 1/2 teaspoon or less and gradually increase your dosage. This way, you will limit any reactions and catch them before they can become intense. Your body will slowly get used to the increased doses.

Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe for Babies?

No data suggests that diatomaceous earth is harmful to babies in any way. However, we recommend that you consult with a doctor before giving any supplement to a baby, including diatomaceous earth.

Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe for the Environment?

Silica, the primary component of diatomaceous earth, is soil’s second most abundant element. It is a natural and common rock, sand, and clay component. Diatomaceous earth is an entirely natural compound that has no detrimental effects on the environment. Using diatomaceous earth instead of harmful pesticides is beneficial to the environment.

Diatomaceous earth is non-toxic for fish, birds, and other wildlife and has no known harmful effects. Scientists believe that it is completely safe for wildlife. (..)

What are the Side Effects of Diatomaceous Earth?

Always make sure you are taking food grade diatomaceous earth. It is a safe and beneficial supplement for most people, with the following exceptions.

When you begin taking diatomaceous earth, detoxification of the body occurs, and parasites are attacked. This can cause a flood of toxins and dying parasites leaving the body in the first few days. Many people will experience flu-like symptoms during this time and is evidence that the DE is working. You will feel better soon; stay on schedule.

As with any supplements, if you are pregnant or nursing, you should consult your doctor before taking diatomaceous earth. Also, people who are taking medications should consult their doctor before taking DE. It can absorb medicines and flush them out of the body – an unwanted side effect.

Since diatomaceous earth naturally lowers blood pressure, you should carefully monitor your blood pressure while taking diatomaceous earth, especially if you have naturally low blood pressure or if you are on blood pressure medications.

What is the Difference Between DiatomaceousEarth and Fullers Earth?

Fuller’s earth is a natural clay that has many benefits similar to diatomaceous earth. It is absorbent, and a deodorizer and is found in many cosmetics and beauty products. Despite their similarities, diatomaceous earth is an entirely different compound.

Diatomaceous earth is mainly composed of silica and is not a clay product. While they have many similar benefits and uses, they are not interchangeable.

We hope you have found this guide on diatomaceous earth to be useful. Hopefully, you have learned a few new uses for diatomaceous earth.

Do you know of other uses for diatomaceous earth? I’ve tried to make this guide as complete as possible, but I have probably missed a few.

If so, please add them to the comment section so that others can benefit from your knowledge. Also, please share this guide on Facebook, Pinterest, and other social media so that others can learn and benefit.