Are you familiar with Diatomaceous Earth, commonly referred to as “DE”? Even though few people have heard of this multi-purpose powder and it is rarely used, it definitely deserves a special place in everyone`s kitchen cabinet. This amazing powder can do numerous things, including collagen production, skin and care health, cleansing, and use for pests, pets, and gardening.
WHAT EXACTLY “DE” IS?
Diatomaceous Earth is a fine powder derived from naturally occurring fossilized “diatoms”, or some tiny organisms found around rivers, streams, lakes, and oceans. This process is a natural part of life and the use of fossilized organisms (algae) provides numerous benefits. This powder is not toxic, poisonous, or harmful. However, it is not recommended to expose your lungs to it. Due to its abrasive structure and its ability to absorb two times its weight in water, it is advisable to avoid breathing in this powder. Another important thing is that you should always use 100%, Food Grade. The versions offered in a hardware store are designed for industrial use and it is not recommended to use such. This powder is very cheap too, and 2 kg cost about $14.00. Most importantly, this completely natural ingredient is safe for you and the environment.
19 USES FOR DIATOMACEOUS EARTH POWDER
1. Fridge Deodorizer
As in the case with baking soda, a small box of DE can be left in the refrigerator to neutralize odors. Make sure you replace it every two or three weeks.
2. Garbage Can Deodorizer
Sprinkle some DE in the bottom of the can and neutralize the bad odor.
3. Stinky Shoes
Simply sprinkle some DE into the stinky shoes and get rid of the odor instantly!
4. Food Storage
Interestingly, adding some DE to grains and legumes can prevent spoilage. This fine power keeps food dry, protects against pests, and it prevents mold.
5. Cockroach, Earwig, Tick, and Spider Control
This amazing ingredient is approved for use against all types of home pests, including spiders, ticks, earwig, and cockroaches. According to the experts, the best would be to use a hand duster do puff DE into the cracks where bugs usually hang out.
6. Garden Pests
Beetles, slugs, and other pests in the garden can be also killed off with DE.
7. Bed Bugs
Use DE against bed bugs and flees. You can find tutorials on how to do this properly.
8. Fleas
There are many videos on how to treat pets for fleas using DE available. Treating any carpets that pets come into contact with is also very important.
You can find videos on how to treat pets for fleas using DE, keep in mind that it is also important to treat any carpets that pets come into contact with.
9. Absorbent
As mentioned above, DE has the ability to absorb moisture and smells, which makes it ideal for keeping the smell out of kitty litter.
10. Cleansing and Detoxing
Food Grade DE contains negatively charged ions which are very effective for eliminating parasites, bacteria, and viruses. It positively affects the process of cleansing the colon as well. DE should be taken on an empty stomach. Take it first thing in the morning and wait for half an hour before your eat anything. Three hours after eating, start with a teaspoon in at least 8 oz of water. Increase the dosage to up to 1 tablespoon after a week. It is important to make some breaks from DE so that the body doesn’t get overwhelmed. Use it for about a month and take only a teaspoon or two twice a week afterward.
11. Healthy Hair
It is a well-known fact that supplementing with silica strengthens the hair and it increases its thickness. Given the fact that DE is high in silica and cleansing properties, you benefit a lot from taking it orally.
12. Strong Nails
Silica, along with biotin and gelatin, is crucial for building strong nails.
13. Strong Teeth and Bones
Silica is essential for the formation of hard outer enamel which protects the teeth. As a matter of fact, silica is needed for the overall bone formation and health.
14. Joints and Osteoporosis
Silica is known to restore the body`s self-repair process, which makes it able to accelerate the healing of fractures, relieve pain, and reduce scarring. This compound is responsible for the depositing of minerals into the bones, particularly calcium. It has been scientifically shown that when our body lacks calcium, the body converts silica into calcium that the bones need.
15. Collagen Production
The skeletons of these fossilized algae consist of 80-90 percent silica. This mineral is crucial for the formation of collagen which is the most abundant protein. This explains DE`s ability to positively affect the skin, hair, nails, joints, and bones.
16. White Teeth
Sprinkle some DE onto your toxin-free toothpaste for some extra deep cleaning. Unlike clays, DE is highly abrasive. Therefore, you need a little wee sprinkle to effective remove stains.
17. Deodorant
The liver, kidneys, colon, lymphatic system, lungs, and skin are our primary detox pathways. This means that blocking our body`s ability to sweat is not an option. However, you can always opt for fresh and natural ingredients, instead of nasty antiperspirants. DE works great for this purpose, as it is less alkalizing than baking soda and it doesn’t cause rashes or irritation.
Homemade Deodorant Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp shea butter, melted
- 2 tbsp DE
- 1 tbsp coconut oil melted
- 1 tbsp arrowroot flour
- 5 drops pure essential oil
Instructions:
Melt the shea butter and coconut oil into a bain-marie. Whisk well to create a homogenous mixture. Remove from heat and whisk the DE, EO`s, and arrowroot. Mix well and transfer the mixture into a small mason jar. Let it sit and firm up. Massage a ¼ tsp under each arm on a daily basis.
18. Facial Mask and Scrub
DE works as gentle but effective facial mask or scrubs due to the fact that it is a fine powder. In addition to its silica content, it is rich in magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, calcium, selenium, and copper. Given the fact that minerals can be easily absorbed through the skin, this is an excellent way to complement a mineral rich diet.
Use:
Mix a tablespoon of DE with water, diluted raw honey, and aloe vera juice to create a thick paste. Massage the paste over the face using circular motions. Let the paste work for 1-2 minutes and remove it with a warm washcloth. This is the best part, as it exfoliates the skin and removes any dirt and oil.
19. Healthy Cholesterol Levels
Last but not least, it has been shown that supplementing with Food Grade DE for a month reduces LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels by affecting the lipid metabolism.
Source: http://www.holisticole.com/blog/diatomaceous-earth