What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a type of sand that’s made up of diatom fossils – single-celled microscopic algae. Diatoms are said to live in glass houses because their skeletons are made of transparent silica. When these fossilized skeletons are ground into a powder, they break up into tiny glass-like pieces (which is the unique benefit of DE, but we’ll get back to that). Unsurprisingly, DE is about 80-90% pure silica.
Key Uses of Diatomaceous Earth
Despite its unconventional origin, DE has some very interesting applications, both internal and external. Above all, DE is recognized for its powerful absorption qualities – it’s actually able to soak up an impressive 1.5 to 4 times its weight in water! Now, it’s important to know that how DE is processed determines whether it’s Food Grade (FCC - for use in humans), or Pool Grade (Filter Grade). Let’s examine the two:
Pool Grade DE is heat-treated and calcined (meaning, it’s been oxidized, or desiccated by roasting or exposing it to high heat), which transforms the silicon dioxide into crystalline silica. This process really boosts its filtering potential, but it can also make it extremely concentrated, which can be dangerous to both humans and animals. Pool Grade/Filter Grade DE should only be used in filtration and is not the kind of DE that is the focus of this article.
Food Grade DE, on the other hand, has not been calcined and is composed almost exclusively of amorphous silica. This is key because for DE to be FOOD GRADE, its silica needs to be 99% amorphous and less than 1% crystalline (in sharp contrast to pool grade). The product you select should list the form of the Diatomaceous Earth in question, as well as its recommended uses and dosing.
Principal Applications of Food Grade (FCC) DE
Agriculture / Pest Repellant
The most unique and well-known use for DE is as a non-toxic insect and pest repellant. In fact, DE is one of the safest, and most effective, ecological pest repellants around for agriculture. The powder can be laid out around crops to prevent insects and parasites from causing damage. The tiny glass-like fragments in DE will be picked up by the hairy bodies of insects, which will slice through their waxy outer shells, causing them to absorb the powder. The insects will then rapidly start losing moisture and dry up. DE can be used very effectively in a variety of settings, including in your garden and inside your home, to help control insects such as earwigs, ants, and cockroaches. And, as mentioned, it’s entirely safe for humans and pets alike!
A huge advantage of DE in this application is that while traditional pesticides will kill pests and insects instantly, they’re only effective for a short period of time (oh, and let’s not forget that they’re also super toxic to humans, pets and the environment!). DE, on the other hand, will continue to control pests safely and effectively as long as it remains in place. So, more bang for your buck!
Diatomaceous Earth as a Dietary Supplement
Though it might seem counterintuitive that a substance you use as an insect repellant could also be consumed, the truth of the matter is that DE offers very real benefits in internal use. Because food-grade DE is an excellent source of silica, it can be used to improve calcium absorption, boost bone health, and prevent osteoporosis. Silica is a structural component of bones, supplementing with silica-rich DE can accelerate the bone-building process while slowing down the breakdown of bones. The abundance of natural silica in DE is also wonderful for hair, skin, and nails because it helps upregulate collagen synthesis.
DE is also an effective and natural solution for constipation, as well as a potent detoxifier and anti-parasitic. Its naturally absorbent and abrasive qualities make it an ideal cleanser. As it passes through your system, it will absorb harmful toxins, heavy metals, and parasites quickly and effectively. What a lot of people appreciate about DE in this application is that it can be used as a standalone detoxifier which doesn’t require you to change your diet or lifestyle. It’s important to remember that DE can absorb 1,5 to 4 times its weight in water, so make sure to factor this in when detoxing with DE and drink plenty of water throughout each day to maintain proper hydration.
