Diatomaceous Earth: Where to Buy, Benefits, and Uses

What is Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, siliceous sedimentary rock composed of the fossilized remains of microscopic aquatic organisms called diatoms. These diatoms have rigid cell walls made primarily of silica, which give DE its unique properties.

Where to Buy Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth can be purchased from various sources, including:

• Online retailers: Amazon, eBay, and other online marketplaces offer a wide selection of DE products.
• Hardware stores: Home Depot, Lowe's, and other hardware stores often sell DE in the pest control section.
• Garden centers: Some garden centers carry DE for use as a soil amendment or pest repellent.
• Natural health food stores: DE can be found in some health food stores, where it is often sold as a dietary supplement or external skin treatment.
• Pool supply stores: DE is a common component in pool filters, so it can be purchased from pool supply stores.

Food Grade vs. Non-Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth

It is important to note that there are two main types of DE: food grade and non-food grade.

• Food grade DE is safe for internal consumption and can be added to food, drinks, or taken as a dietary supplement. It is typically used as a natural source of silica, a mineral essential for bone, joint, and skin health.
• Non-food grade DE is not safe for human consumption and should only be used for external purposes, such as pest control or as a filter aid. It may contain contaminants, such as heavy metals or pesticides, that are harmful if ingested.

Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth has numerous potential benefits for both human health and industrial applications. These include:

Human Health Benefits:

• Pest control: DE is effective at killing insects and other pests, including ants, cockroaches, fleas, and bed bugs.
• Fungal infections: DE can help treat fungal infections on the skin and nails.
• Wound healing: The silica in DE promotes wound healing and may reduce scarring.
• Digestive health: Food grade DE can help improve digestion, reduce gas and bloating, and promote regularity.
• Bone and joint health: The silica in food grade DE is essential for healthy bones and joints.

Industrial Applications:

• Filtration: DE is used in water filtration systems to remove impurities.
• Policing: DE is used as a polishing agent to create a smooth surface on metal and other materials.
• Insulation: DE is used as an insulating material in construction.
• Agriculture: DE can be used as a soil amendment to improve drainage and aeration.

How to Use Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth can be used in various ways, depending on the intended purpose.

For Pest Control:

• Sprinkle DE around areas where pests are present, such as baseboards, cracks, or pet bedding.
• Create a DE "barrier" around entry points to prevent pests from entering.
• Mix DE with food or water to create bait stations.

For Fungal Infections:

• Apply DE directly to the affected area and cover with a bandage.
• Soak the affected area in a DE solution (1 cup DE to 4 cups water).

For Wound Healing:

• Clean the wound and apply DE to the area.
• Cover the wound with a bandage.
• Change the DE dressing as needed.

For Digestive Health:

• Add 1-2 tablespoons of food grade DE to food or drinks.
• Mix DE with water and drink as a suspension.

Safety Precautions

While diatomaceous earth is generally safe for use, it is important to take precautions to avoid inhalation or contact with eyes.

• Wear a dust mask when handling DE.
• Avoid breathing in DE dust.
• Rinse eyes immediately if DE gets in contact.
• Do not consume non-food grade DE.

Stories and Lessons

Story 1:

A homeowner noticed an infestation of ants in their kitchen. They tried various chemical insecticides without success. Desperate, they tried sprinkling DE around the baseboards and entry points. Within a few days, the ant infestation was significantly reduced.

Lesson: DE can be an effective and natural pest control solution.

Story 2:

A person with a stubborn toenail fungus tried numerous topical treatments with no improvement. They read about the antifungal properties of DE and decided to give it a try. After applying DE to the affected area for several weeks, the fungus gradually disappeared.

Lesson: DE can help treat persistent fungal infections.

Story 3:

A pet owner was concerned about their dog's ongoing digestive issues. They consulted a veterinarian, who recommended adding food grade DE to the dog's diet. After a few weeks of supplementation, the dog's digestion improved, and gas and bloating were reduced.

Lesson: Food grade DE can be beneficial for digestive health.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a sieve to evenly distribute DE around your home or garden.
• Create DE "pillows" by filling fabric bags with DE and placing them in areas where pests congregate.
• Add DE to shampoos and soaps for an exfoliating and pest-repelling effect.
• Use DE as a natural deodorizer in shoes, carpets, and pet bedding.

How to Buy Diatomaceous Earth: A Step-by-Step Approach

1. Determine your intended use: Consider whether you need food grade or non-food grade DE.
2. Research different brands: Compare the quality, purity, and price of various DE products.
3. Check for certifications: Look for DE products that are certified by reputable organizations, such as the NSF or the OMRI.
4. Read reviews: Read online reviews from other customers to get a sense of the effectiveness and safety of different products.
5. Choose a reputable retailer: Purchase DE from a trusted retailer that offers high-quality products and excellent customer service.

Why Diatomaceous Earth Matters

Diatomaceous earth is a versatile and valuable material with numerous potential benefits. It is an effective pest control agent, can treat fungal infections, promote wound healing, improve digestive health, and has various industrial applications. By understanding where to buy diatomaceous earth and how to use it safely and effectively, you can harness its many benefits for both your health and your surroundings.

Tables

Table 1: Properties of Diatomaceous Earth

Table 2: Applications of Diatomaceous Earth

Table 3: Food Grade vs. Non-Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth