What is diatomaceous earth used for? Diatomaceous earth, or DE, is a product people hear about often but do not always fully understand. A highly versatile natural powder, DE has a broad range of everyday uses. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is commonly used around the home and garden as a natural way to manage pests and in some pet care routines.
In this blog, we explain what DE is, the difference between food-grade and filter-grade DE, and a few common ways to use it. We also cover safety so you can use it correctly.
What Is Diatomaceous Earth and Where Does It Come From?
Diatomaceous earth is made from the fossilised remains of tiny water plants called diatoms. These are a type of algae with hard, glass-like shells built from silica. Over millions of years, their silica shells accumulate on the beds of lakes and oceans, forming thick deposits that are mined and processed into a fine, off-white powder.
The result is a natural product that is rich in silica. Under a microscope, the particles are sharp and full of tiny holes, which give DE many of its useful qualities.
Two Grades of Diatomaceous Earth
There are two main types of diatomaceous earth, and choosing the correct grade is essential for both safety and effectiveness.
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Food-grade DE. This is the version made for use in and around the home. Freshwater food-grade DE is non-toxic to people, pets, and plants when used as directed. This is the type sold for pet supplements, garden use, and pest control.
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Filter-grade DE. This version is heated to high temperatures in a process called calcination. This increases its crystalline silica content by converting some silica into its crystalline form. It is commonly used in swimming pool filters and other industrial filtration systems. Filter-grade DE is not intended for consumption and should never be confused with food-grade diatomaceous earth.
At NZ Health Store, we only stock food-grade diatomaceous earth, making it easy to choose the right product without risk of confusion with filter-grade DE.
Common Household Uses for Diatomaceous Earth
Food-grade DE has a wide range of household uses. Here are the most common ones:
Natural Pest Control
DE is best known as a natural method of controlling crawling insect populations. The fine particles can damage an insect’s protective outer layer while also absorbing oils and moisture from its body. As the insect loses moisture, it becomes dehydrated and can no longer survive.
Because DE works through a physical process rather than a chemical one, it is often chosen as an alternative to synthetic insecticides. It can be used against ants, cockroaches, fleas, and other crawling pests in and around the home.
Bed Bugs and Fleas
Food-grade diatomaceous earth can be applied in small amounts into mattress seams and cracks where bed bugs and fleas tend to hide. It is often used as a natural pest management solution, but it should still be applied carefully to avoid inhalation and used according to safety guidelines, especially around children and pets.
A Natural Deodoriser
DE absorbs moisture and odours, much like baking soda. Some people mix it with cornflour and a little coconut oil to make a simple homemade deodoriser.
A Gentle Exfoliating Face Mask
Because DE is mildly abrasive and absorbent, it is sometimes used in homemade face masks. A common recipe combines DE with milk, aloe vera gel, and honey to lift away dead skin and excess oil.
Diatomaceous Earth for Pets
Food-grade diatomaceous earth is also sold as a pet supplement and may be labelled as “fossil shell flour”. Some pet owners use it as a dietary supplement to support digestive health in dogs and cats, with dosage instructions provided on the packaging. It is important to use only food-grade DE for this purpose and to follow the label directions.
How to Use Diatomaceous Earth Safely
DE should be used carefully. Following a few simple steps helps reduce risk:
- Use only food-grade products. Choose a product labelled for the intended use and always follow the label directions.
- Avoid breathing in the dust. The fine powder can irritate the lungs and throat. Apply it slowly, and consider wearing a mask while doing so.
- Keep it dry. DE works best when dry, so reapply it after rain if you are using it outdoors.
- Apply lightly. A thin layer is more effective than a thick pile. It also consumes less product.
These steps help you get better results while keeping the household safer.
Key Takeaway
So, what is diatomaceous earth used for? Food-grade DE is a natural product for pest control, deodorising, simple skincare and pet supplements. The key to using DE is choosing the right grade and applying it carefully. If you would like to add food-grade DE to your home, browse our range today.
If you have questions about our food-grade DE powder or want help placing an order, please contact us directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should You Take Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)?
Food-grade diatomaceous earth is sold for people and animal uses, and it is important to use only the correct product for the intended purpose. Some food-grade DE products are labelled as fossil shell flour, while others are marketed for animal use. Always follow the directions on the packaging, and check with a healthcare professional or vet if you are unsure.
How Often Should You Use Diatomaceous Earth?
How often you use DE depends on the purpose. For pest control, reapply as needed, especially after the powder gets wet. For pets, use only products specifically labelled for that purpose and follow the package directions exactly. If you are considering any use for health-related reasons, check with a vet or doctor first.
Does Diatomaceous Earth Really Work?
Yes, diatomaceous earth can be effective against crawling insects when used correctly. It works by physically affecting an insect’s outer layer and absorbing oils and moisture, which causes dehydration over time. Because it is a contact insecticide, it only works when pests come into direct contact with it. It also needs to stay dry to remain effective.
Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe for Pets?
Yes, diatomaceous earth is sold in food-grade form for some pet-related uses. It is important to use the correct product for the intended purpose, avoid inhaling dust, and follow the label directions. If you are unsure whether it is suitable for your pet, or how much to use, check with your vet first.
Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe for Humans?
Yes, Food-grade diatomaceous earth is intended for use in food-related applications and must be used correctly according to the product instructions. The main risk to avoid is inhaling the fine dust, which can irritate the nose, throat, and airways. For this reason, it should always be handled carefully and not allowed to become airborne. Filter-grade diatomaceous earth should never be used for food, health, or household applications and is intended for industrial filtration only.
What Is Diatomaceous Earth Made Of?
Diatomaceous earth is made from the fossilised remains of diatoms, a type of microscopic algae with silica-based cell walls called frustules. Over millions of years, these remains accumulated in lake and ocean sediments and were gradually compacted into deposits. These deposits are then mined and ground into a fine silica-rich powder.
