What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous Earth is a fine powder made from fossilized phytoplankton. Or in other words it is diatoms from 30 million year old oceanic algae. But the important part, is that it is incredibly rich in silica (about 80-90%), which gives it so many different uses and benefits.
What is the Difference Between DE and Bentonite Clay?
Bentonite clay is a clay that is mined from the earth, and it’s formed after volcanic ash has weathered and aged in the presence of water. And like I mentioned above, DE is fossilized phytoplankton. Regardless of their vastly different origins they do have some similarities and often work interchangably (but not always). I have found in most cases that DE is more powerful. That means any detoxification caused by consuming these products will be greater with the DE, it also means that for some uses it will be more efficient. Sometimes stronger is better, sometimes it isn’t. You get to be the judge of what to use when in those instances.
Home Uses for Diatomaceous Earth
Health Supplement
Because of its high silica content it makes an excellent supplement for strengthening nails, teeth, and bones. Silica is also very important to maintain healthy hair and skin. Not to mention that it also detoxes the body, and can help you heal from candida overgrowth. The general recommendation is to start with a teaspoon per day and if you don’t experience heavy detox effects you can work up to two tablespoons. It is also wise to take a selenium supplement or eat Brazil nuts when taking DE. I like to hide mine in a smoothie due to its chalky texture, but it is often taken in a glass of water.
Deodorizer
Just like baking soda diatomaceous earth can be used to absorb odors in your fridge or the bottom of your garbage can. Just refresh it every few weeks to keep odors at bay.
Deodorant
Diatomaceous earth also works great to remove body odor. Many people want to get away from using unhealthy chemical filled deodorant have nowhere to turn to. Baking soda has been used in the past but it tends to be a little to gritty for ideal comfort, and for many people baking soda can cause a rashy reaction. Diatomaceous earth is the solution. It is much finer and causes less irritation, while still keeping you fresh. Here’s a recipe if you want to try making your own.
Facial Scrub
Because of its fine gritty nature it works perfectly to exfoliate the skin and pull out toxins. Some have even mixed it with water and applied it as a face mask.
Toothpaste
Diatomaceous earth works great as the deep cleaning ingredient in any home made toothpaste. Or you can simply add it to the top of whatever you use for a deeper clean.
Pest Control
Diatomaceous earth is effective in treating spiders, cockroaches, ticks, earwigs, and bedbugs. It also makes a great chemical free solution for fleas on your pets.
Internal Cleanser
Because of its fine abrasive nature it works incredibly well to cleanse the digestive track. It can even help remove any parasites or other harmful organisms.
Boost Collagen levels
Silica plays a key role in collagen production. Which helps build depleted cartilage, and strengthen tendons. It’s the perfect thing to take after rolling an ankle or pulling a tendon.
What type should I use?
Only food grade diatomaceous earth should be used as a supplement or applied to your skin. You can find it here.
Adrienne says
Hello i have just found your site and am LOVING IT! I have DE at home and use it for a couple things though i have yet to eat it. I was curious to see if you had eaten DE through your pregnancy? I have not been able to find anyone who used through the pregnancy,
Tiffany says
I did not use DE during pregnancy. I generally dial back on things that can cause a heavy detox during pregnancy and focus more on loading up on foods that will promote a healthy pregnacy and baby.