Uses and benefits of diatomaceous earth

You've probably heard of it as a natural way to rid your home of pests, but do you know all the other ways diatomaceous earth can be used? Aside from being an effective pest control product, diatomaceous earth has many other uses and benefits. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about using diatomaceous earth in or around your home!

Diatomaceous earth is a mineral that has been used for centuries to help with many different health concerns. It's a safe, natural remedy that can be taken internally or topically, depending on what you're looking to treat.

When you take it internally, it absorbs toxins in your digestive tract and helps break down food waste in your intestines. It also helps improve the health of your gut flora, which can help with other digestive issues like constipation and diarrhea.

If you're using diatomaceous earth externally, it can help treat skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It works by killing off microorganisms on your skin that cause these diseases. Diatomaceous earth also helps reduce inflammation when applied topically and can even be used as an antiseptic!

What's diatomaceous earth?

Diatomaceous earth (pronounced di-a-to-ma-ceous) is a powdered substance known largely for its detoxifying properties. Believe it or not, diatomaceous earth is actually made from ground up microfossils called diatoms. Diatoms have an outer shell made of silica, and as well as providing a food source for marine organisms, diatoms can form into rock, known as diatomaceous earth.

Where does diatomaceous earth come from?

Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring substance that is mined from the sedimentary deposits of lakes or rivers. It's made of tiny fossilised algae called diatoms, which are formed by the accumulation of silica over time. When you use diatomaceous earth as an insecticide, it dehydrates the insects and kills them.

Diatomaceous earth is used in a variety of ways - it can be added to your garden as a fertilizer, or it can be sprinkled around your home to deter bugs. It might also be used in some pet foods, toothpaste, and even cosmetics!

Diatomaceous earth benefits

What is diatomaceous earth used for you ask? While there are many uses for this incredible powder, predominantly associated with gut healing, here are a few of the most common benefits. 

Body detox

The natural detoxifying properties of diatomaceous earth can be used internally to help rid parasites, bacteria and toxins from the body. As such, it can be used in detox programs or help clear gut bugs and parasitic infections. This naturally leads to a better digestion and better nutrient absorption, reducing the build up of gas, wind and bloating. To learn more about the importance of your gut health, see our earlier post about gut health

In the home

Diatomaceous earth powder can be used in cleaning solutions, or sprinkled over carpet or surfaces where bugs and bacteria may reside, acting as a natural disinfect for the home without the need for harsh chemical cleaners. Diatomaceous earth can also be used for dusting plants for pest control and soil additive for improving plant health.

For bones and joints

Silica found in diatomaceous earth is beneficial for the bones, joints, skin and hair. By strengthening connective tissue, silica in diatomaceous earth can assist in conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis and for increasing hair growth. Earths Purities food grade diatomaceous earth is composed of approximately 94% silica and this important, trace mineral is required by tendons, cartilage, blood vessels, and bones.

As an oral cleaner for pearly whites

Diatomaceous earth can be applied to teeth using a toothbrush to help remove bacteria which can lead to plaque build up and discolouration. As a natural anti bacterial, diatomaceous earth can help to reduce the risk of gum disease and improve oral health.  

Protecting against pests

Diatomaceous earth is a natural insecticide which can be used to control pests in and around your home. It's a great option for those who don't want to use chemical based products but still need an effective method of pest control. Diatomaceous earth is safe for humans, pets, wildlife and the environment. It's also cheap and easy to use!

Protecting against fleas and ticks

One of the biggest benefits of diatomaceous earth is that it can be used to control flea and tick infestations, both indoors and out. As an all natural treatment, it’s safe for pets, humans and the environment.

Diatomaceous earth can be used in the yard to help keep fleas and ticks away from your pet. It can also be applied directly onto your dog’s fur to kill any insects that may already be on him or her (just make sure not to get any powder into their eyes!). You can also use diatomaceous earth inside: spread some in your house where you see signs of these pests, such as behind furniture or along baseboards where they like to hide.

Flea prevention

One of the most common uses for diatomaceous earth is prevention of fleas. Fleas are a major problem for pets, and they can also be a nuisance to their owners. If you have a pet that gets fleas, there are several natural ways you can use diatomaceous earth to help control them. Diatomaceous earth kills fleas by dehydrating them, which means it won’t harm your pet if ingested but will keep them from biting him or her. As an added bonus, using diatomaceous earth in your yard may also prevent other types of bugs from invading!

The best way to use diatomaceous earth for this purpose is by sprinkling it around where your cat sleeps or spends they time outside (such as on furniture), as well as in areas where he might go during playtime such as under bushes or trees if there's any chance they could get into contact with him while playing outside at night when many other critters come out too (such as mosquitoes).

The benefits of diatomaceous earth for pets

Diatomaceous earth is also a great way to keep your pets free of pests. It is an effective natural remedy for fleas, ticks and other pests that can cause harm to your pet. Diatomaceous earth is a safe alternative to chemicals like DEET, which has been proven to be harmful when ingested by your pet.

Preventing flies

• Diatomaceous earth is a natural insecticide.
• Flies and other insects are attracted to diatomaceous earth because of its salty taste.
• This can be used outdoors, because flies are more likely to land on diatomaceous when they're outside (and not in your home).

Keeping chickens safe

Did you know that there are many uses for diatomaceous earth in the chicken coop? Diatomaceous earth can be used in a number of different ways, including:

• Feed for your chickens. Diatomaceous earth is an all natural mineral that helps improve egg production and overall health in chickens. It's also great at keeping away pests like fleas, ticks and lice, which means less time spent cleaning up after your flock!
• Water filter. The same properties that make diatomaceous earth effective as an insecticide also make it an excellent filtration tool for drinking water. Just add some to a bucket or other container full of water - the minerals will settle at the bottom while contaminants float to the top! Use this liquid as an alternative source when needed (or make homemade dog treats!)
• Bedding material. Litter boxes aren't just for cats - your birds will love having somewhere soft enough not only stretch out but scratch around too! Put down some fresh hay into anything from old boxes to large plastic tubs with holes cut out so air can flow through comfortably; then sprinkle some diatomaceous earth on top for easy clean up later on down.

Removing parasites

Diatomaceous earth is a natural way to remove parasites from your body, and it can also be used to remove parasites from your pet. While diatomaceous earth is not a cure all for all types of parasites, it can help you or your pets get rid of some of the most common ones.

Diatomaceous earth has been shown to work against external parasites such as fleas and ticks, and internal ones like worms in dogs and cats (roundworms).

In addition to being safe for humans, when used at the recommended doses, diatomaceous earth has no known side effects except for mild skin irritation if you get too much on yourself or inhale too much dust while brushing off surfaces that have been treated with it; however, even this reaction should be temporary since there aren't any active chemicals in diatomaceous earth itself.

Which diatomaceous earth is safe for dogs?

If you're looking for a natural way to keep fleas and ticks at bay, diatomaceous earth for dogs might be the solution for you. Diatomaceous earth is a natural, non toxic substance made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, which are tiny algae that lived in ancient oceans. The powdery substance has been used as an insecticide for centuries, but it's also been used to treat a variety of ailments in humans and animals.

Diatomaceous earth is made up of tiny particles that can damage insects' exoskeletons when they come into contact with them. This breaks down their cell walls, causing them to die from dehydration or lack of oxygen. When applied topically to dogs (or cats), it acts as a barrier between their skin and fleas, ticks and other bugs that may want to bite them.

Because it's such a natural product with no side effects, diatomaceous earth is considered safe for use on dogs. But there are some things to consider before giving your pup some diatomaceous earth:

• Use only small amounts and use only food grade diatomaceous earth
• Make sure your dog has no allergies or sensitivities before applying anything topically - this includes adding any new substance into his diet or environment

Which diatomaceous earth is safe for chickens?

If you're looking for a diatomaceous earth that is safe for chickens, look for one that has food grade diatomaceous earth in it.

Diatomaceous earth is made from the fossilized remains of tiny sea creatures called diatoms. It's not harmful to your chickens, but it can be harmful if they accidentally eat too much of it. That's why you should only use food grade diatomaceous earth for chickens and not the type that's used to kill insects or rodents.

How to use diatomaceous earth?

When taking internally for detox or for digestive health, start with 1 tsp daily on an empty stomach, building up to 1 tsp twice a day (away from food). Make sure to drink plenty of water, as staying sufficiently hydrated is important to help remove toxins. Diatomaceous earth can be taken 10 days on followed by 10 days off for up to 90 days as part of a detox regime. 

If using in the home, first brush or vacuum over carpets, beds or sofas, or anywhere there may be fleas or bugs. Brushing will help to aggravate the bugs so they move around, allowing the diatomaceous earth to be more effective at targeting them. Sprinkle the diatomaceous earth, brush it into the surface and then let sit for 4-12 hours before vacuuming away. 

If you are using diatomaceous earth on plants, simply dusting plants for natural pest control is the way to go.

When to take diatomaceous earth?

You can take diatomaceous earth any time you like! It's a great addition to your morning smoothie, so feel free to mix it in with the other ingredients.

You can also sprinkle it on top of your salad or mix it into your pasta sauce. And if you're looking for something more substantial, try adding some diatomaceous earth to your rice.

Diatomaceous earth side effects

As diatomaceous earth can kill of bacteria and parasites, when taking internally, the possibility of experiencing a ‘die off’ reaction is possible. Symptoms can include headaches, fatigue and nausea. To reduce the risk of a die off reaction, it is always advised to start off slowly, and build up the dosage and frequency over a number of days to weeks.

Diatomaceous earth can be a bit harsh on the digestive system, so it's a good idea to drink lots of water when you're taking it. It can also cause diarrhea if you're not drinking enough fluids. If this happens, just stop taking the diatomaceous earth until your body gets used to it again. You should be fine after that!

There are many uses and benefits to diatomaceous earth. It is a safe, affordable, and effective option for pest control.

Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring substance that can be used to control pests. It is safe, affordable, and effective. Diatomaceous earth can be used on animals, plants and humans. There are different types of diatomaceous earth available for different purposes (food grade diatomaceous earth and non food grade diatomaceous earth). We recommend opting for food grade whenever you can.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking for a natural way to keep pests away from your home and garden, diatomaceous earth is a great option. It can be used in many different ways and its benefits are numerous!

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