Maximize Your Health: Unveiling Diatomaceous Earth Benefits

| Modified on Feb 27, 2024
Diatomaceous Earth Benefits.

The concept of leveraging nature's bounty for optimal health is not novel. Civilizations have relied on natural resources for centuries to fortify their health and cure ailments. Diatomaceous earth (DE), a chalk-like substance primarily composed of fossilized diatoms, has recently garnered considerable attention in the health and wellness industry due to its numerous health benefits.

This article explores the diverse health benefits of diatomaceous earth and offers insights into incorporating this natural product into your health regimen.

What is Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous earth, sometimes called DE, is a naturally occurring sedimentary rock composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, microscopic algae with hard silica-based cell walls. It is harvested from ancient freshwater and sea beds, processed, and often sold as a fine white powder.

Detoxification and Digestive Health

One of DE's most frequently discussed health benefits is its potential for detoxification. Diatomaceous earth possesses a negative ion charge. This attribute enables DE to attach to toxins, harmful bacteria, and parasites in the digestive system and flush them out of the body, aiding in detoxification.

Diatomaceous Earth can assist in detoxifying a wide range of harmful substances, including:

  • Heavy metals
  • Bacteria
  • Parasites
  • Protozoa
  • Fungi
  • Viruses
  • Endotoxins
  • Pesticides
  • Medication residues
  • E. Coli

In addition, DE's high silica content can promote digestive health. Silica is a vital mineral that helps our bodies digest and absorb nutrients effectively. By increasing the silica levels in our system, DE might boost our overall digestive efficiency.

Strengthening Bones and Joints

Diatomaceous earth is an excellent source of silica, which is necessary for the proper formation and health of bones, joints, and connective tissues. Studies suggest that silica aids in calcium absorption, a crucial element for bone health. DE can help maintain bone density, promote joint flexibility, and prevent osteoporosis.

Skin, Hair, and Nail Health

One of diatomaceous earth's most noticeable health benefits is its ability to enhance the health of our skin, hair, and nails. The silica in DE can stimulate collagen production, vital for skin elasticity and hair and nail strength. Regular DE consumption might lead to glowing skin, healthier hair, and stronger nails.

Boosting Heart Health

Emerging research suggests that DE might be a potent ally for heart health. The silica found in diatomaceous earth can potentially reduce cholesterol levels and promote heart health by strengthening blood vessels. It is also suggested that silica can prevent the accumulation of plaque in arteries, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.

Supporting the Immune System

Diatomaceous earth may support the immune system in a couple of ways. First, by detoxifying the body and ridding it of harmful bacteria and parasites, DE can help our immune system function more effectively. Second, the silica in DE may improve the body's utilization of its key nutrients, thereby strengthening the immune response.

Enhancing Metabolism and Weight Management

Another compelling health benefit of DE is its potential to support metabolism and weight management. Diatomaceous earth may enhance metabolic function by improving nutrient absorption and promoting digestive health. Additionally, the detoxifying properties of DE can support weight management by eliminating waste and promoting overall body health.

How to Use Diatomaceous Earth for Health Benefits

To reap the potential health benefits of diatomaceous earth, it can be ingested in food-grade form or applied topically. When ingested, start with a small dose, about half a teaspoon, and gradually increase to a couple of teaspoons daily mixed into water, juice, or smoothies. DE can be mixed with water to form a paste and applied directly to the skin for topical use.

Diatomaceous Earth contains silica, which offers several health benefits when consumed. The body absorbs a small amount of silica each time DE is ingested. One of the advantages of silica is its ability to help remove bad fats and reduce cholesterol levels by 40-50 points. Silica can also contribute to reducing high blood pressure.

Health Benefits of Silica 

Silica is also said to help with the following:

  • High blood pressure
  • Painful joints
  • High cholesterol
  • Itchy skin
  • Rashes
  • Boils
  • Acne
  • Calluses
  • Warts
  • Eczema
  • Burns
  • Frostbite
  • Skin lesions
  • Bed sores
  • Hair loss
  • Brittle nails
  • Age spots
  • Low energy
  • Coughs
  • Kidney stones
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Vertigo
  • Tinnitus
  • Headaches
  • Alzheimer's

Cautions 

It is important to purchase only food-grade Diatomaceous Earth, as the type of DE sold in pools is unsafe for health applications and can be toxic when inhaled.

Where to Buy

 Nature's Wisdom is a reputable brand of food-grade DE that has existed for some time. Many people have used this product for years. Here's a link to the product on Amazon:


Nature's Wisdom Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth 5 lb.

Conclusion

While research on the health benefits of diatomaceous earth is still ongoing, preliminary findings indicate promising potential. As a source of silica and a natural detoxifier, DE offers a range of health benefits from improved digestion and bone health to enhanced skin glow and heart health. With responsible use and professional guidance, diatomaceous earth can be a valuable addition to your natural health toolbox.

Read on for feedback from Earth Clinic readers who have used Diatomaceous Earth to treat various ailments and improve their overall health.

Related Links:

Glowing Skin Remedies
Natural Remedies to Detox Heavy Metals
Silica: Essential Mineral for Bones, Skin, Detox, Alzheimer's & More




Caution: Food Grade

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Posted by IVORY COAST (CYBER CITY, CALIFORNIA) on 07/05/2009

Do you realize that diatomacious earth is glass? the algae in the ocean make this glass as part of their body. they die and people collect this diatomaceous earth from the bottom of the ocean. it has a cutting action -- just like glass. thus you could cut a hole in the eardrum with this or your intestines. i would not drink this nor put it in the ear.

Replied by Deborah
(Prattville, Al)
11/21/2011

D.E. is NOT GLASS! Diatoms are actually made up of mostly calcium and other minerals and are the food grade is safe for humans and animals internally as well as externally.

Replied by Diane
(Ca, US)
07/16/2014

I don't think cutting is a problem with diatomaceous earth; if you feel it with your hands it is very smooth.

Silica, which is what DM is mostly, (it is not glass, though a large percentage of glass and don't forget 3000 degrees) is not good to inhale, silicosis is a problem with working with clay also which has a lot of silica so best to take care when working with the dry, like using for insect control, even mixing with water.

It does cut insects bodies and parasites. Silica is important to the body.

Food grade has been used in food and animal foods for a long time, so I don't think there is a worry.

Replied by Celeste
(Tennessee, US)
03/10/2015
★☆☆☆☆

Why do people post things as facts when it is just their uneducated opinion??? You could not be more wrong in your statement. DE is NOT glass.


Accidental Diatomaceous Earth Inhalation

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Posted by Breanna (Sedalia,mo) on 03/07/2014

Hello! We were told to use diatomaceous earth in our house to rid it of fleas. I took precautions by wearing a mask when I put it all over our house, which is 4000 sq ft. I left it there for 3-4 days. During that time my 2 year old was running and playing all over the house and moved around all of the particles in the air. Well after that she started coughing and 7 months later she has been diagnosed with asthma. She was fine before this exposure. My concern is that she got this from inhaling all of that in our house. She is too young to have tests to check her lungs and her function but my concern is that she could have serious lung problems and have read that this can lead to tuberculous, cancer, and death. Do you know how serious this is? How many cases has there been. What can I do to help her! ? Thanks

Replied by Taram7
(Cincinnati)
03/07/2014

From what I know, its not harmful if its small amounts and given time to clear out of the lungs... its the silica particles... but my question would be was it the Organic Food Grade DE or the hardware store kind? The first thing I would do is visit the place you bought it and write down all the ingredients. If they are not listed then you can contact the manufacturer- for stabilizers or anti-caking agents, etc. But asthma is inflammation- so anti-inflammatory herbs and foods would help and avoiding inflammatory foods. A quick internet search can pull these up for you. There are plenty of natural treatments for asthma. I am not a doctor, but my daughter had sports induced asthma for a while and it can flare up as side-effects of other things. But it its been 7 months at least and it was organic food grade DE and just minimal from breathing- I have always heard the lungs will clear it out with a good immune system and no side-effects.

Replied by Timh
(Ky, Usa)
03/08/2014
2063 posts

Taram7: The asthma reaction is the lungs inability to properly remove the silica, which ends in an inflammatory response.

To hasten the removal of this particulate, use purified water in either a vaporizer or nebulizer. Three herbs which will help the lungs are Marshmallow Root, Slippery Elm, and Mullein. You may find an herbal lung formula at the health food store w/ these three as well as others. Read label for directions.

As these remedies begin clearing the lungs, there may be some silica build up in the colon, so sprinkle Milled Flax Seed in the child's food to final eliminate the silica. Speaking of Flax, you will need to increase the dietary Omega 3 Fatty Acids w/ cold water fish like Salmon, Mackerel, or Sardines. These greatly reduce inflammation and promote healing.

When you seem to have succeeded in this endeavor, you may consider giving one cap of Raw Lung Glandular so as to heal any possible lung damage.

Replied by Mama To Many
(Tennessee, Usa)
03/08/2014

Dear Breanna,

Well, I am so sorry your daughter was left with asthma from the DE and also sorry you have gotten such dire predictions about her future health. I won't at all minimize the asthma issue (we have dealt with this in two of our children) however, the human body can generally deal with a lot of assaults to it and still live on well for a long time. (Not that we should assault it on purpose, but it is inevitable in this world, no matter how careful we are.) My father is in his 80's. He has some health issues and has asthma, likely caused by decades of smoking and some dangerous chemical exposure to his lungs as a young person. Yet he has led a long and very productive life.

Is your daughter needing medication to keep her asthma under control? Is this hindering her play of her sleep?

Tim's advice about herbs and pure water in a vaporizer or nebulizer are great.

Heritage Essential Oils makes a blend called, "Lung Healing" that we found very helpful for our daughter. We used it for months in an essential oil nebulizer while she slept for months and it kept her from wheezing or coughing.

Please keep us posted!

~Mama to Many~

Replied by Sandee
(US)
09/14/2014

Hi Timh ...I used diatamaceous earth (food grade) to get rid of carpenter bees. I used a pest pistol to get it into the openings. The dust did fly everywhere and I was not wearing a mask. Fast fwd several months later and a chest CT scan shows nodules (benign in nature...possibly from old pneumonia which I never had or breathing in some solvent) and slight swelling of lymph nodes. I feel it is safe to assume this was caused by my inhaling the diatomaceous earth as I have an autoimmune condition which keeps my immune system at a less than optimal level. I am going to try your suggestions and have a few questions if you don't mind. I have a nebulizer and will begin treatments with purified water...how often do you recommend. Of these 3 Marshmallow Root, Slippery Elm, and Mullein...which do you think would be best for my situation?

Replied by Timh
(KY)
09/15/2014
2063 posts

Sandee: It's always safe to start low and go slow, so one treatment on day 1 and if no bad side effects two treatments per day. You can use all three herbs together for best results. The nebulize water plus herbs should help significantly but true healing will take some time. Other treatment options would be an herbal expectorant like Lobelia or Licorice. The herb Hawthorn Berry has an antioxidant affinity for the lungs which should encourage the removal of anything foreign. After several weeks of treatment and you feel "cleaned out" you can consider the herbs Horstail, Gotu Kola, and Comfrey for removing scar tissue and encourage regrowth. Two other nutrients which will help is Glucosamine and Calcium-AEP. Looking forward to your results.

Replied by Sandee
(Pa)
09/15/2014

Thank you so much Timh...I will go today to get the water and herbs. I am so happy and blessed to have figured the possible cause and to "stumble" upon this thread (no coincidences is my belief:)

Would it be ok to do nebulizer treatments along with using a vaporizer at night? Also if I use a vaporizer will my partner be ok ...want to make sure there will be no ill effects for him.

Thanks so much....you have shed much light on this issue for me and others too I am sure.

Replied by Timh
(KY)
09/16/2014
2063 posts

Sandee: I suppose you will use something like "Vicks" mentholyptus in the vaporizer and if so the same principle applies --start low and go slow; gradually increase the mentholyptus or eucalyptus. I forgot to mention these herbs but they are helpful. Back in the day, the steamrooms at the fitness centers I attended had the Eucalyptus available or allowable to mix w/ the steam and oh my what a cleansing & invigorating experience. Unfortunately nowadays most places have too many complainers of the "bad odor" and so goes the Eucalyptus. The advantage of the steamroom experience would be rapid cleansing as well as removal as per the sweating.

The only bad side effects I can imagine in your case would maybe be some heart pain or digestive discomfort as the lungs are clearing the toxins back into the bloodstream. Headache or dizziness would indicate a good deal of bad stuff, so it all comes down to what kinda levels of free radicals you have in your lungs. The marshmallow and Slippery Elm will help lubricate & protect the Kidneys as well as lungs so that would greatly reduce the stress loads on the Kidneys, although if there is any sign of infection some Cranberry will take care of it.

Am very glad to help and only hope to hear some good news from you soon.

Replied by Neal & Lorene
(Montgomery Tx)
05/22/2017

I was told when using DE for carpets/house to "wear a mask" due to the dust when applying. This makes good sense. I don't know about effects on Asthma victims, but would be cautious and be out of the house while someone else does the job. It settles really fast. You might want to dust excess off furniture if ppl are going to be running, raising the dust to inflict into lungs. (?) I would suspect that it is not that harmful. Read the bag! Follow directions. Asthma can be from many things, but mostly from a poorly functioning immune system.


Accidental Inhalation of DE

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Posted by Teena (Melbourne, Australia) on 09/24/2018 233 posts
★★★★★

I just wanted to share on the 'hazards' of breathing in food grade Diatomaceous Earth, while making capsules of the stuff recently I was tamping down to fill more and trapped dry DE burst out of capsule machine going into my face, hair, eyes, nose, mouth, and as I gasped in nervousness, my lungs. Apart from a mild stress from reading too many warnings, I had no ill effects, I did not wipe my eyes, nose or mouth, as at first I froze, not knowing what I should do. I did think well any bacteria in my nose will die. I will still take care with DE, but will absolutely not freak out about accidentally breathing it in.


Acne

3 User Reviews
5 star (3) 
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Posted by Arveca (Kansas) on 03/09/2018
★★★★★

Try the D.E. as a face scrub. Works better that way for acne. Also start with small dose for internal use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon..work your way up to a tablespoon. Anything can be overdone.


Acne
Posted by Dianek (Macon Ga) on 03/16/2014
★★★★★

I had acne problems and I read that by using Diatomaceous Earth as a facial mask mixing water with then rub for 30 secs let dry for 2 mins then rinse. It's a great exfoliator and it helped cleared up my acne. I do this every other day. My pores have gotten smaller and easier to clean. I also use rosehip oil after. Hope it works for you. Give it a month. Let me know.


Acne
Posted by Natcat86 (Gaithersburg, Maryland, Usa) on 08/16/2011
★★★★★

I had really bad acne all over my face and neck with the random appearance on my chest, back, or shoulders constantly for 14 years (starting at puberty), and as time went on it only got worse (so it wasn't caused by changes in hormones as I was led to believe).

I stumbled upon some information on Diatomaceous Earth (DE) and became intrigued because of its many proported benefits (I recommend looking it up). It is relatively unknown, and only sold for pest control and consumption by animals, (but you can buy food grade DE online) but since it is used to mechanically kill bugs in grain silos and just about every person who has ever eaten grain which was stored in a silo has eaten DE, I figured it would be safe and I would try it.

DE is the fossilized shells of a type of algae called Diatoms. Their shells are extremely hard and very sharp (but yet not dangerous to your cells) and they mechanically scrub the walls of your intestines, scraping away any build-up. Some DE passes through the intestinal walls and into the bloodstream and while it is there it scrapes plaque buildup away from the walls of veins and arteries. It basicly acts like a plumber in your body.

I found that most cases of acne are caused by toxins entering the blood stream through the digestive system (some degree of leaky gut), not by a problem with the skin itself. It is your body attempting to expel the toxins from your blood.

When you expel the toxins which originate in your digestive tract through the digestive system, they don't have the opportunity to make it into your blood stream and thus cause acne by pushing through your skin.

So... I began adding 1tsp DE to water every day for a week, then increased it to 1 tbsp gradually after that and drank it daily for 2 months. I noticed a difference my skin within a day.

By the time 2 months was up I no longer had acne. I had to stop consuming it for a little while after that because I slightly threw my body off balance (my skin became a little dry). After a month off, I started consuming it again in moderation and have been ever since.

I have been able to consistently keep the acne away as long as I continue to consume it at least a couple of times a week. I highly recomend it because it is very effective and it gets to the root of the problem instead of just treating the symptoms. I now have had only a few pimples (instead of many hundreds) within the last 9 months, and I know that in time I will get them to go away completely.


Arthritis

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Posted by Kimberly (Oregon) on 12/06/2014
★★★★★

We have used DE for over a year now for many different ailments on both our pets and our selves with positive response. My 76 year old mother takes it twice a day she has severe arthritis in her knees since taking this she now is up to walking a mile a day. I was so happy to find DE.


Avoid Inhaling DE

3 User Reviews
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Posted by Ben (Sacramento, Ca) on 12/02/2011
★★★★★

I sell DE for a living and can tell you that in it's dry form it is EXTREMELY hazardous long term as it is chemically inert and you can not eliminate it from your body if you inhale it. It is perfectly safe when wet and can not poison you in any way unless you (or your pet) swallow massive amounts which will bind together in the presence of muriatic acid, also known as stomach acid and create a very strong "mud."

Replied by Joshua, Nd
(Ma)
02/11/2015

I would like to see your references for the assertion that "you can not eliminate it from your body if you inhale it." Mucus membranes line the entire respiratory tract, as well as cilia. Also, hydrochloric acid is in the stomach, not muriatic acid. Please learn your biochemistry, anatomy, and physiology before making such assertions. Also, I do not sell any DE, and have no financial associations with such sale.

Bo Jangles
(Texas, US)
02/23/2015

Muriatic Acid is dilute Hydrochloric Acid.

Violeta
(Usa)
09/17/2017

Joshua,

LOL, you're the one who needed to be educated with your own biochemistry haha. muriatic is hydrochloric acid, it is the same thing. But guess your being funny.... and that was a good laugh :)

Replied by Kayte
(Tampa)
07/29/2015
★★★★★

I brush my teeth with it and coconut oil. I use the same concoction as deorderant.

I mix it in water and drink it. Ive had a friend cure stomach cancer by drinking it.

Ben, How in its dry form is it toxic? But in wet form isnt?

Its exoskeletons of diatoms that lived million of years ago which sustained life....for millions of years. It was once present in the soil, but now is depleated. God has a design that included Diatomaceous Earth.

I believe you are talking about the heated and chemically treated for swimming pool, D.E.

NOT the food grade. Why call it FOOD if harmful?

Also, the body will rid the excess through the urinary tract. And anything breathed in thats not oxygen, can irritate the lungs.

There are only 4 deposit sites that they take Food Grade DE from. So that shows something.

It is drying so try not to get in eyes or inhale it.

But it isnt toxic. It is 89 % silica with 14 trace minerals we need.

Replied by Sj
(Tn)
10/20/2015
★★★★★

How much did your friend use for curing stomach cancer? I have someone in the family going through treatments for it and would like more info. I've just recently started using myself (not this particular brand) and am feeling the benefits after just a few days! Thanks

Replied by Sheila
(Cheshire)
07/19/2017

If you use food grade, I've read that this is not harmful to inhale - though obviously take precautions and don't breathe it in deliberately!

Replied by Katzie
(Canada)
10/12/2021

I think Ben meant he sells "Pool Grade" D.E. and that is indeed poisonous to the body. Food Grade is called "food" for a reason. This stuff is amazing! Don't be scared. Don't be held up by Brand either - just make sure it's Food Grade. It will work. I am still discovering the wonders of D.E. Happy Healing, everybody!


Bacterial Infections

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Posted by Tikiwish (Rancho Cucamonga, Ca) on 07/19/2013
★★★★★

Thanks for the info, I just started taking it, for two days now, for an bacterial infection. I felt really bad last at first, but then I started feeling a lot better than I hadfor a long time, today I had more energy too. I'm going to do the same thing, take it for a year and hope it gets rid of this infection. I bought a large box online, it's not expensive. I'll post more about my progress.


Bad Breath

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Posted by Jenny (Winchester, England) on 08/04/2011
★★★★★

For bad breath, I take a level desertspoon of diatamaceous earth once per day in a drink, works a treat


Beautiful Skin

2 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  100%

Posted by Annie Mae (East Coast, New England) on 08/21/2011
★★★★★

Hello.

I use a tablespoon of DE in simple water, not juice... Just pure liquid to get it down.

The next day I felt only mildly different, not negatively.

But looking in the mirror I said ok, no makeup today. My eyes were stunningly 'nice', I usually put a touch of liner, and usually darken my brows. Small touches. So I left it at just using moisturizer, and went out. A woman and I were chatting and eventually she said "you're so beautiful'. I tell you this because I had not heard this in decades, and it was day 1, following use of DE. The down side for me is that on the 2nd, 3rd day I am a bit constipated....

Replied by Vreed27
(Seattle, Wa)
07/28/2012
★★★★★

Yes, you need to take in more water as DE can act like a diuretic.

Replied by Doug
(Osborne KS)
11/20/2023

If you are having constipation issues just add psyllium husk (without the sugar). DE and psyllium Husk are amazing together!!


Candida and Parasites

4 User Reviews
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Posted by Rad_city (Brea, Ca) on 02/11/2013
★★★★★

I have never written on a forum or posted about my health but feel compelled to do so about Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) because I feel it will help a lot of people. (in particular, people with distended bellies, fungal overgrowth, clogged sinuses, mild allergies, food allergies, bad digestion, bad skin, low energy)

* BACKGROUND *
I have suffered from asthma all my life. Since a little child. And i've had a slightly distended belly (I am tall, thin, and not an ounce of fat on me! ) since I was a child. I had strep throat a lot as a kid and would take antibiotics (I now think I probably was allergic to some food, or had parasites, and antibiotics just slowly eroded my gut)

I smoked and drank casually in my 20s, and by my 27th birthday I had sinus infections a couple times a year, but then, things got worse. Tonsils were getting infected, horrible sore throats, fungus on nails, and gradual weight loss. I took more broad-spectrum antibitoics and got a yeast infection. Had to stop.

I developed a weird rash on both legs (on the shins) of tiny red dots. Tried using topical anti-fungal cream. Then turned to tea tree oil, fasted (which encouraged some die-off symptoms), pro-biotics, and then found colloidal silver (which also helped to kill off something in my body, but not totally).

I was coughing up white balls of phglem, bad digestion & constipation/diarrhea. Also have had horrible and chronic localized lower back pain on the right side, to the point where I haven't been able to walk, or bend over. I tried acupuncture, chiropractors, and tons of herbal supplements. I have tried mixing DMSO in a nebulizer and inhaling that, I've taked food-grade H2O2 in water (and inhaled). (If you choose to try these treatments please do a significant amount of research. They are safe but, like most effective treatments, can be harmful if you're not mindful)

I believe all of the above treatments are components of a well-rounded wholistic health system. I have learned so much in trying all of them, and now have an arsenal of alternative health options for the future. Many of them I learned about on THIS SITE! BUT, if you are suffering from a candidia overgrowth and/or parasites, then I believe D.E. is the first offense to clear you out so other things can help to make you healthy.

* TAKING D.E. *
I began taking two giant spoonfuls of D.E. In water twice a day. Within hours I felt a headache. Within days I had full blown flu symptons. Achey body. Feverish. Sinuses in absolute pain. SOMETHING WAS/IS DYING OFF. What's really interesting is that I went through many of the symptoms of my past battles in reverse. I felt my tonsils get inflamed, and sore, for a couple days, then that subsided as the back of my throat was sore, then it moved down into my vocal chords (which as been a source of pain in the past as well), then into my lungs (where I've had horrible bouts of gurgly, phlegm filled coughing-having to use an inhaler many times a night).

I woke up on the 4th day with my tounge COVERED in white. It scraped right off with a toothbrush. I applied the D.E. as a paste to my face, shoulders, legs, and let it dry to white. And it has cleared my legs of the red-dot rash. It is making my pores on my face smaller. It seems to be very powerful in drawing toxins out of the skin. I'm on day 9 and still feel a bit loopy. My distended belly is going down. My gums, which once had dark rings where they met my teeth, now are healing. I've had back pains, then nothing (possible I had some overgrowth in my joints, or taking up residence in my lower back?), i'm having a strange pain in my knee that I think will go away.

I plan on taking D.E. for a year. I think I have a long way to go to help my body find balance. But D.E. seems like an incredible gift. I have been expelling phlegm out of sinuses and lungs for past 3 days. Thick gunk. It is incredible.

* DON'T GIVE UP *

So, I will say to you who are searching for good health: Don't give up! Trust your intuition. Keep moving and experimenting. You can't hurt yourself by trying alternative health methods any more than a Dr. Can hurt you by prescribing harsh synthetic drugs that you might be harming you. Most people don't need antibiotics. They are good for extreme conditions. But most symptoms are caused by bad diet (i am now mostly vegan - has also helped clear my lungs, skin, etc. Highly recommended!) and lifestyle. I do believe that we live in a toxic world, full of pollution, but I believe nothing is more harmful to our bodies than the american diet and lifestyle (processed sugar, processed grains, alcohol, caffeine, etc).

I don't believe people are supposed to have mild allergies, stuffy sinuses, low energy, bad skin, etc. These are all signs from your body that something is wrong internally. You have to treat the internal for the external to be healthy!

If anyone has questions please feel free to email or reply. I love reading testimonials from real people because I feel like you can determine what might be effective for you by reading other people's voices. Every body is different, and what might work for some (like D.E.) might not work for you. But DON'T GIVE UP! Keep going! It is a journey. You can find good health. Keep stripping away the layers of your habbits and patterns and examine every part of your life.

Be Well! Paul

Replied by Yehsams
(Ncal)
03/07/2014

For Rad_city from Brea, Ca

I am also a user of DE, and any other item I can use instead of going to the Dr for every little thing. Had some pretty miraculous things happen. AND, had some scary thing happen. Went for a long time working on a painful lower back, right side. Finally caved and had a Colonoscopy. Now the scary, I now have about 1/3 less larger colon on the right side. ALL my pain was in the lower right back. Cancer stage was 3a. What I want you to know is that your symptoms are identical. My suggestion, get a colonsocopy to make certain your good to go before you continue with anything else. With all the GMO in american food, no matter how well we why try, we are not immune to cancer. Now I am on my way to recovery, doing well. AND right back to my good old natural remedies. Have a good life! Yehsams

Replied by Lindsey
(San Francisco, Ca)
11/20/2015
★★★★★

BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS

Hi Paul,

I was working in a pharmacy when I found out about how abundant pinworms were. I had never heard of them before. After reading about them, I was certain I had come in to contact with them due to all the time I'd spent near infested patients. I took one dose of pinx to ease my mind. Four days later I had severe diahrrea and got a "cold." I thought this was because I was traveling. Two weeks later, when I was in bed, I was certain I felt a pinch and spotted a worm on my toilet paper. I took the second dose of pinx and three days later started DE, 1 tablespoon in the morning. After a few days I got extremely exhausted. Then a day later I got a headache. The next day I started feeling sick again. It's been 8 days and for the past three I have had a sore throat and extreme congestion (worse than ever). I will wake up vomitting phlegm. I'm aware of the herx reaction. But what worries me is that I've felt sore of detached and out of it the past week as well. It seems as though my vision is a little blurry but I'm not sure if this is because I'm having a hard time concentrating. It doesn't seem like this would be part of the detox reaction and that it may be a toxicity to the DE, or worse the worms have travelled north (big symptoms of brain prasites). I was wondering if you had any of those symptoms? And how long your "detox" symptoms lasted. I want to clean my body but obviously do no harm in the process.

Replied by Myway
(Usa)
11/20/2015
★★★★★

Food grade diatomaceous earth has to be started slowly....1 tsp in water on an empty stomach and over two weeks, increase to 1 tablespoon in water 2x a day. You have to drink lots of water or you may have a constipation effect. A headache or ringing in the ear indicates that you need to lessen the dose.

I take 2 teaspoons a day as a supplement but I did find out - it has to be started slowly.

MyWay :D

Replied by Jordan
(Minneapolis)
12/30/2017

I am not a medical professional, this is my personal experience. I had severe herxeimer reactions after beginning the candida diet and taking antifungals, and my reaction as candida and parasites died off was similar to yours. If you are taking DE to kill parasites, I imagine that you would have the same die off reactions. My die off was so bad that I didn't think I would be able to go to work. My doctor recommended coffee enemas to help get rid of those symptoms and they helped tremendously.

Replied by Sandra
(North Central Washington)
01/12/2021
★★★★★

Hi, Paul (Rad_city (Brea, Ca):

I am an 84 yo female. Many years ago, I was given a bag of FG DE by a friend in Utah. I started using it. I don't remember any problems and didn't notice any benefits. Sometime back then (about 6-7 years ago I had a heart attack and now have a stent. While reading your story, I remember one of the nurses (in a surprise filled voice) saying over and over, "Look at her skin, look at her skin. It's very young."

Well... I just realized something. After quite a few years of not taking DE, I began noticing that the skin on my lower right calf, my skin had become sort of cellophane. I have figured that was because my right leg has for some years now been somewhat numb. So, holy cow, I just realized that that skin now feels soft and supple for a few days since I started using DE about 2 weeks ago!!! When I quit taking it I was still putting about 1/4 tsp in my Chihuahua's food every day. She died this past summer at the age of almost 17. This was right after her vet gave her a big dose of antibiotics. Most of her life she had no health problems at all. I was just about to discontinue the use of DE. Now, I am convinced to continue it until I get the heck otta-here, if you get my drift. I usually put it in my morning coffee. I am now considering My EmergenCy in place of the coffee. Thank you Paul you have done me a great eye opener, and I hope many others will get your message also.

Replied by Orabelle
(Pittsburgh, PA)
01/26/2021

Hi Sandra,

Any current information on DE available? I'm very interested to know how things are going.


Chronic Digestive Issues

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%

Posted by Stuart (UK) on 03/13/2015
★★★★★

I tried food-grade DE in the hope that it would deal with a chronic (30 yr) bowel complaint, for which the doctor had no remedy. It worked straight away.

Now I use just a couple of teaspoons a week mixed well in foods like hummus or mashed potato. It is practically tasteless and makes no difference to these foods. Sometimes I drink a spoonful shaken well in a little water.

I think it may be harmful if used dry or inhaled - so just don't do that!


DE and Amalgams

3 User Reviews
5 star (3) 
  100%

Posted by Baise (New York) on 02/10/2021

Can I use DE while having 6 amalgam fillings?

I know some people have commented on this but I realize that it's just people's opinions based on what they think is right. I've read every single post on DE on this site, but I haven't come across anyone who explicitly said they have amalgam fillings, they have used DE and have improved their health. So if there's anyone out there who has these toxic fillings and has also successfully used DE please can you respond to this post?

Please no posts telling me I need to get rid of these fillings. I know that better than anyone else and there's nothing more I want to do, but it's not cheap, especially since I need to go to someone who specializes in the removal of them and I can't afford it right now, but hopefully I will in a couple of years. I can't find anything on the internet on this topic and would appreciate any help. Thank you very much.

Replied by Bill
(Barton, NY)
01/25/2022

DE will not help you remediate amalgams from off gassing. Amalgam fillings continuously off gas 24/7. There is only one way to eliminate this as you are aware of. My advice would be to not chew gum, do not drink hot liquids, do not drink acidic liquids. Just the process of chewing encourages off gassing. With that said, you do need to eat and chew your food. If removal of the fillings is not possible just taking DE internally would help soak up some of the oxidation coming off them. Also, psyllium hulls or bentonite clay taken daily would offer some help in elimination. Just remember, as long as you have those fillings they are off gassing with every breath you take. I had my amalgams removed 18 years ago. It is expensive. Fortunately my dentist did my in quadrants so I would do one quadrant and then another a month or two later. Helped financially.

Replied by Elle
(Florida by way of the Bronx)
10/12/2022
★★★★★

Hi, I know you wrote this in 2021 but since it looks like no one else answered I decided to. I also have fillings from when I was a kid. I swear I never needed them. There was a lot of malpractice back in the day. Was told I needed the fillings and glasses as was told to almost every kid in my neighborhood and our parents trusted the doctors and never asked questions.

I was scouring around for information and found a few on the reviews on Amazon and blogs. One woman said that she uses it with 4 mercury fillings and she uses it as normal. Drinks it every day. Then I read one that said because they have fillings they use a straw to drink it.

I've done it both ways. Started just drinking it as quickly as possible in about 6 ounces of water. Now I use a straw. I'm still not at 1 tablespoon though. I'm going slowly. Just got to 1 1/2 teaspoons.

I wasn't drinking enough water throughout the day and was very dehydrated and had constipation as well. My large cup of coffee daily also contributed.

Used liquid IV a few times and slowly sipped on water throughout the day and it's gotten better. Also started on blackstrap molasses recently and that cured the constipation immediately lol. I'm anemic and am taking the BM and just ordered desiccated liver to help that.

Have you been on the DE since you posted your question? Is it going well?

Replied by Brittny
(Colorado Springs)
09/21/2023

Hello! I also realize I'm responding quite late to the post. I've used DE for quite a few years now to help with the flea, springtails, spiders, and parasite problems. I work with animals for a living. I was curious as to how it was working out for you, because I am anemic as well. This is news to me about not taking it directly if you have Mercury in your fillings. Would you happen to know a specific website where I can find this information? Thank you!


DE and Amalgams
Posted by Autumn (Louisville, Ky) on 06/07/2014

I read a post on here about someone saying do NOT use DE internally if you have Silver Fillings. I cannot seem to find any info on the internet and I am on my 2nd day of taking DE. Does anyone who has silver (amalgam) fillings use this? Or does anyone have any links or info to share about if this is safe or not? Thank you for your help. I am trying to use this to make myself better and do not want to hurt myself in the process. Thanks again!!

Replied by Tonya
(Brooklyn, Ny)
12/30/2014

Hello, I have silver fillings and I noticed 2 months into taking DE my teeth have become very sensitive. I am not sure if the Diatomaceous Earth is breaking down the silver. I went to the dentist and I also have a cavity under 2 of my fillings. I don't know if it's the DE or just something that was going happen.

Replied by Rose
(Virginia)
01/02/2015
★★★★★

I had read somewhere that you need to remove mercury fillings before detoxing. The reason they stated was that the mercury was being taken from your teeth and distributed it into different parts of you body. This could be dangerous cuz it can be redistributed to sensitive areas in your brain and can cause more problems.

Replied by Lynn
(Ia)
01/18/2015

I don't think I would take it internally if it's going to mess up your teeth.

Replied by Joe
(Oceanside, Ca By Way Of Bklyn)
02/27/2015
★★★★★

Yea, the solution is not to stop the DE but OMG, REMOVE the mercury from your teeth. For God's sake, look up the effects of these heavy metals in our bodies. We weren't made to have this crap in us. Go to a holistic dentist and let them remove that crap and install materials that our bodies can handle. Normally, big pharma, with their doctors and dentists are all schooled with the same mentality and that is to temporary find a solution to "fix the patient" with the least cost to them as possible. Have you not noticed that they are now putting wood in our food because it's fiber? Really, fiber? It's on record that it saves companies money and same with now putting ammonia in our meat to stop E. Coli which it does not. We need to wake up, research, and rid our bodies of these chemicals and start spending our money smart. Purchasing power is the way to fight back. Instead of constantly investing your money to Walmart because of saving a few books, spend a little more money to support hard working honest people and sacrifice some of your other life's luxuries to compensate for it. Maybe cut the cable bill and increase your grocery bill from crap to organic??? Peace and love and when you wake up... spread the word... and love: it's the Brooklyn way!!!

Replied by Tea
(New Zealand)
06/22/2015

You can absorb transdermally through baths or use dmso and avoid the teeth altogether!

Replied by James
(Waikato)
07/25/2016

That's only if you are using a chelator, e.g., dmsa/dmps or ala. DE is not a chelator as such



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