Most pesticides are harmful to nature as well as to humans, whereas the diatomaceous earth is a natural powder and stands out as a versatile and effective option. It is made from fossilized remains of diatoms, microscopic algae-like organisms, diatomaceous earth is renowned for its myriad of uses, ranging from pest control to personal care. Most of the time it is used in gardens to protect against pests a lot. In this blog, we explore the use of diatomaceous earth at home in detail.
What Is Diatomaceous Earth?
Earth is a Where Diatomaceous earth is made from the fossilized remains of diatoms in rivers, lakes, and oceans. It takes time of thousands of years in water to transform from diatoms to siliceous sedimentary rock that collects in the form of fine white powder like dust particles. This powder is rich in silica, a compound that lends it remarkable absorbent and abrasive properties.
Types of Diatomaceous Earth
There are two types of diatomaceous earth: food-grade and feed-grade
- Food Grade: DE is used in both gardens and your home main reason is that it does not contain any harmful additives, such as used in toothpaste, beverages, skin care products, animal feed, medications, rubber, and many other things. It helps in cholesterol and bone health some claim that.
- Feed Grade: This type of DE is used in gardens in the form of natural pesticides to reduce insects. Sprinkling in your garden can save your plants from pets. DE also known as Crystalline silica, which can cause lung disease, respiratory system inflammation, and even cancer if inhaled. Crystalline DE can only be found in a very small number of products labelled as pesticides.
Benefits Of Using DE
The advantages of using diatomaceous earth are enough to protect your garden from any insects like ants, aphids, bed bugs, cockroaches, flea beetles, fleas, carpet beetles, and spider mites. If you use feed or food-grade DE, make sure that wear safety goggles, a mask, and gloves. DE natural is the best alternative to chemical pesticides and it is the most effective pest control showing fast results as soon as it starts working instantly. DE food grade is safe for humans and pets. It can be irritating, but the risks are low. You can safely use it in the home with pets and kids.
You can also read : All about Perlite for Plants
Use Of Diatomaceous Earth At Home
Pest Control
- One of the most popular uses of diatomaceous earth is as a natural insecticide. The main reason is that it started working instantly when the insects’ contact with the powder dehydration process began as soon as possible.
- To utilize DE for pest control, simply sprinkle it in areas where insects are present, such as along baseboards, in cracks and crevices, and around the perimeter of your home.
- The most common pests targeted by diatomaceous earth include ants, cockroaches, fleas, bed bugs, and various garden pests.
Water Filtration
- Diatomaceous earth is mainly used as a common filtration agent in water purification systems. Its puzzled structure makes it more effective at trapping impurities and particles, resulting in clean and clear water.
- You can use DE in your home water filtration systems or even in DIY filtration projects such as creating a makeshift water filter for camping or emergencies.
Personal Care
- In skincare and personal care products, diatomaceous earth is prized for its gentle use removing dead skin cells from the outer layer of your skin. It helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote smoother, healthier-looking skin.
- You can incorporate DE into homemade facial masks, body scrubs, and toothpaste for a natural and gentle exfoliation experience.
Are diatomaceous Earth safes?
Yes, diatomaceous earth is mostly believed to be safe if applied carefully. It is necessary to guarantee that the DE being used is food-grade like Amol Minechem Limited provides. If it is intended for an application that comes in contact with humans or pets. Although it is not toxic to both humans and pets, it is important to avoid inhaling the fine particles during application by wearing a mask. Also, store DE away from excessive moisture to prevent it from being ineffective. Overall, if properly used and managed, diatomaceous earth is a great natural method for pest control, elimination of odours, water filtration and personal care.