Diatomaceous Earth
What is Diatomaceous (die-uh-toe-may-shus) Earth?
Diatomaceous Earth (DE, diatomite) is a naturally occurring, soft, chalk-like, sedimentary rock mineral, easily crumbled into a fine white, off-white or pink powder.
This powder is very light-weight due to its high porosity. It is made primarily of silica (a mineral which exists in various forms, including sand, quartz and flint, and which is used to make glass and cement) and consists of fossilized remains of diatoms, (hard-shelled algae that inhibited the waters of the Earth millions of years ago).
Diatoms used to serve as the basic food for aquatic life, just as grass is the basic food for land animals. Some of these deposits, which shifted to dry land overtime, are extremely important to humans. There are hundreds of sources of Diatomaceous Earth; most deposits are from salt-water sources. The ones coming fresh water sources are of extremely high purity and called food grade diatomite.
Freshwater diatomite is mined from dry lakebeds and is mostly hydrated amorphous (having no fixed form or shape) silica.
Food grade DE is non-toxic and having organic status, is safe around humans, animals, pets, plants and the environment. Its 100% natural origin ensures that it is free from the artificial chemicals which are abundant in modern-day insecticides, anti-parasite remedies and plant food.
Uses of Diatomaceous Earth:
For animals: Dogs, cats, chickens, horses, goats, rabbits etc.
Apply to the fur of pets to kill fleas and ticks.
Add to pets drinking water to control worms.
Dust animals bedding and environment to control life cycle of parasites.
Added to animal feed it will stimulate metabolic rate, improve coat and hoof condition, improve digestion and elimination, act as a natural mineral food supplement (it contains numerous minerals), promote healthier egg production and stronger eggs in poultry, and reduce overall animal stress. It will also reduce the odour in barns from excrement.
For the garden:
DE is the organic way of controlling insects in the garden, greenhouse, orchard, and more. Use it for control of slugs, whitefly, beetles, mites, grasshoppers, etc. For use in the greenhouse or outdoors on fruits, vegetables, flowers, grains and grass - up to and including day of harvest. Ensure coverage over the entire plant, including under the leaves. For young plants, two pounds per acre may be adequate
In the home:
Use as part of flea treatment of domestic animals by dusting anywhere your pet goes. Safe to use on your bed, sofa, their bedding, rugs, everywhere.
Kills: cockroaches, silverfish, bed bugs, flies, mozzies, ants etc.
Odour control in cat litter.
For people:
While we do not give any recommendations in terms of human consumption, I think consumers have the right to know certain facts about Diatomaceous Earth, as well as its benefits and uses in order to make the right decision as to whether DE is the right product for them. Here are some of them:
In many countries, DE is sold as a natural product for better hair, nails, skin, bones and to treat head lice.
There are two basic types of DE: the one of marine origin and the one derived from fresh waterbeds. The fresh water DE is the one classified as food grade diatomite due to its exceptional purity.
The FDA (USA) has classified DE as GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe).
When mined, diatomite is heat treated to over 600 degrees Celsius, making it completely sterile and safe from the point of view of infection.
It is also pH neutral and completely non-toxic.
DE contains numerous micro and macro-elements, which may contribute to natural body re-mineralization.
Food grade DE is being used as an extremely effective natural remedy against parasites in humans. Many people have pets. Even if pets are not part of the household, worm infestation is very common. DE expels worms swiftly and effectively, without the need for chemical remedies. It is also a safe and effective preventative measure against parasites.
Cholesterol reduction:
several studies have shown diatomite to be effective in reducing cholesterol in the blood.
Powerful sorbent, natural detox: DE is a highly sorbent substance which can eliminate toxins out of the body acting as a natural detoxifying remedy.
Immune stimulant:
DE can stimulate the immune system in both animals and humans.
Rich source of minerals Diatomite is extremely rich in minerals, which makes it a great mineral food supplement.
Colon cleanser: DE collects numerous toxins/debris when it passes through the colon. While eliminating parasites, it also picks up other unwanted substances and takes them out of the body swiftly and efficiently. In cases of inactive stool movements, it is one of the natural aids for quick elimination.
Silicon-rich:
DE is very rich in silicon, a chemical element that has multiple functions in the body, such as production of bone, cartilage, hair, nails, strengthening cellular membrane, blood vessels, participating in the production of thyroxin, etc. Scientific studies have shown that silicon Si plays an important role in cross-linking the mucopolysaccharides (long chains of sugar molecules that are found throughout the body, often in mucus and in fluid around the joints) and proteins. This increases the strength and reduces the permeability of the extra cellular matrix in connective tissues. Including the aorta and other arteries, trachea, tendon, bone, teeth and skin. It also has a catalytic role in the mineralization of new bone. Si therefore aids the healing process and also helps to build the immune system.
www.portfolio.mvm.ed.ac.uk/studentwebs/session2/group29/silinut.htm
In many ways, Diatomaceous Earth can be compared to the edible clays and zeolite (clinoptilolite), due to its powerful detoxifying, demineralising, immune-boosting, cholesterol-reducing properties. What sets it apart from the other two is its strong insecticide and anti-parasite properties. However, as mentioned in this article, DE is not limited to it, and serves as the most natural aid to many other body functions.
How does it work on insects/parasites?
Diatomite punctures the exoskeleton of insects and parasites and absorbs their body fluids effectively drying them out. It also acts as a powerful natural repellent. Insects stay away from surfaces covered with DE, making a serious infestation unlikely.
Dosages:
Livestock protection against insects and parasites: horses, cows, pigs, sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens, and other For smaller farm animals (pigs, sheep, goats), add about 12g (0.5oz) to their feed.
Pets: Our best friends come in all shapes and sizes. Protect them with Diatomaceous Earth. When lightly rubbed into their coats or dusted on their premises, it is very effective against fleas, ticks, lice, and other pests on pet dogs, cats, and birds. It can also be used as an organic wormer and will kill any worms or parasites the pets may have. When using as a de-wormer, mix the Diatomaceous Earth into their food as follows:
Large Cats - 1 teaspoon
Kittens - 1/4 teaspoon
Dogs 100 lbs + - 1-2 tablespoons
Dogs 50 - 100lbs - 1 tablespoon
Dogs Under 50 lbs - 1 teaspoon
Mini dogs - 1/2 teaspoon
As pets get older, they also get sore joints. With Diatomaceous Earth in their diet they will feel better. Apply to moist kennel areas to reduce odors, dry the area, and prevent pest breeding. Deodorizing and absorption are natural functions of DE, so add to kitty litter to absorb odors and keep the litter box drier.
For larger animals (cows, horses), add 25-50g of DE to feed, once a day. For poultry and small animals, which you keep in large number, add 2% of DE to their food.
Natural plant protection against insects: DE is the organic way of controlling insects in the garden, greenhouse, orchard, and more. Use it for control of slugs, whitefly, beetles, mites, grasshoppers, etc. For use in the greenhouse or outdoors on fruits, vegetables, flowers, grains and grass - up to and including day of harvest. Ensure coverage over the entire plant, including under the leaves. For young plants, two pounds per acre may be adequate.