Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from the sediment of fossilized algae called diatoms, which have skeletons made of silica or silicon dioxide. It has a wide range of uses, including:
1. Pest control
- Diatomaceous earth is used as a natural and organic insecticide that kills insects by breaking their exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate.
- It is registered for use against bed bugs, cockroaches, crickets, fleas, ticks, spiders, and many other pests.
2. Food and drink
- Diatomaceous earth is used as a filler or to prevent the formation of lumps in foods, medicine, paints, and plastics.
- It is used to remove unwanted material from drinking water and as a clarifier for wine and beer.
- It can be added to containers of grains, corn, and flour to prolong their shelf life and prevent mold and insect infestations.
3. Personal care
- When applied to the skin or teeth, diatomaceous earth is used to brush teeth or remove unwanted dead skin cells.
- It is used in skin care products and toothpaste.
- It can help detoxify the body and maintain optimal gut health by attracting harmful toxins and flushing them from the body.
4. Industrial uses
- Diatomaceous earth is used to clean up spills or for insulation in industry, as well as to scrub things.
- It is used as part of various chemical tests.
- It is used as an abrasive cleaning agent for tile floors, grout, bathtubs, countertops, or any other area that needs a thorough scrubbing.
It is important to note that there are different types of diatomaceous earth, and not all are safe for consumption. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is purified and approved for use by the EPA, USDA, and FDA.
