What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, soft, sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white powder. It is composed of the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms known as diatoms, whose skeletons are primarily made of amorphous silicon dioxide, or silica. This unique composition gives it powerful abrasive and absorbent properties, which are utilized in a variety of industrial and consumer products. For human use, it is critical to distinguish between food-grade DE and filter-grade DE, as only the former is safe for consumption and application on the body. Food-grade DE contains very low levels of crystalline silica, the form that can be harmful if inhaled.
Potential Internal Benefits of Food-Grade DE
When consumed, food-grade diatomaceous earth is primarily known for its role in digestive health and as a source of the mineral silica. It does not act as a poison, but works mechanically in the body.
Digestive Support and Detoxification
Proponents of food-grade DE suggest it acts like a mild abrasive and absorbent filter within the digestive tract. It is believed to “sweep” the intestines, helping to remove waste, parasites, and toxins. The porous structure and negative electrical charge are theorized to bind to positively charged pathogens and heavy metals, aiding their removal from the body.
However, it is important to note that many of these detoxifying claims are anecdotal and not yet verified by extensive human research. Your body's own organs, like the liver and kidneys, are highly efficient at neutralizing and removing toxins naturally.
Hair, Skin, and Nail Health
Silica is a key component of diatomaceous earth and is also an important mineral for the structural integrity of hair, skin, and nails. Anecdotal evidence suggests that supplementing with food-grade DE can lead to:
- Stronger Nails: It is believed that the silica can help strengthen brittle nails over time.
- Healthier Skin: The presence of silica is thought to help promote collagen production, potentially leading to smoother, healthier skin.
- Fuller Hair: Some users report improved hair growth and fullness after consistently taking a silica supplement like food-grade DE.
Cholesterol Management
Limited human research, including a small 1998 study, has explored the effect of food-grade DE on cholesterol levels. In that study, participants with high cholesterol saw a decrease in total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, with an increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol after taking DE for eight weeks. However, this study was small and more robust research is needed to confirm these findings.
Joint and Bone Health
As a rich source of silica, food-grade DE is also linked to the health of bones and connective tissue. Silica plays a role in bone formation and mineral density. While some studies on silicon supplementation and bone health show promise, more research is required to fully understand the effects of consuming food-grade DE for this purpose.
External and Topical Applications
In addition to internal use, food-grade DE is incorporated into various topical products.
- Exfoliation: Its abrasive nature makes it an effective and gentle exfoliant for face scrubs and soaps, helping to remove dead skin cells.
- Face Masks: Its high absorbency can help soak up excess oils from the skin, making it a good ingredient for face masks, particularly for oily skin.
- Natural Deodorant: Food-grade DE is used in deodorants to absorb moisture and eliminate odor-causing bacteria.
- Toothpaste: As a mild abrasive, it is used in some natural toothpastes to help scrub plaque and whiten teeth.
Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth vs. Activated Charcoal
Both food-grade diatomaceous earth and activated charcoal are natural powders known for their adsorptive properties. However, their specific mechanisms and uses differ.
| Feature | Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth | Activated Charcoal |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Fossilized remains of algae (silica) | Carbon-rich material (coconut shells, wood) |
| Mechanism | Porous structure and negative charge trap toxins mechanically | Highly porous surface absorbs and binds toxins chemically |
| Uses | Digestive support, parasite control, mineral source, external exfoliant | Gastrointestinal decontaminant in poisonings, gas relief, water filtration |
| Research | Largely anecdotal, some small studies | More established use in emergency medicine |
| Appearance | Fine, white to off-white powder | Fine, black powder |
Important Safety Considerations
Food-Grade vs. Industrial-Grade
Never use industrial-grade diatomaceous earth for human consumption or topical use. Industrial-grade DE is heat-treated, converting the silica into a crystalline form that is extremely harmful if inhaled and can cause serious lung disease, such as silicosis. Only use products explicitly labeled as "food-grade".
Inhalation Risk
While food-grade DE contains very little crystalline silica, inhaling large quantities of any fine powder can cause respiratory irritation. Always use a face mask when handling diatomaceous earth in large amounts to avoid inhaling dust. For more information on safe handling, consult resources like the National Pesticide Information Center.
Dosage and Hydration
As diatomaceous earth absorbs moisture, it's crucial to consume it with plenty of water to avoid constipation. Start with a small dose, such as one teaspoon mixed in a glass of water, and gradually increase it over several weeks as your body adjusts. There is no scientifically established dose, so consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.
Limited Scientific Evidence
While anecdotal reports of the benefits of food-grade DE are common, much of the supporting scientific evidence is limited, outdated, or based on animal studies. It is not a miracle cure for serious illnesses, and proper medical advice should always be sought for health concerns.
Conclusion
Food-grade diatomaceous earth has gained popularity as a natural supplement for a variety of human health applications, including digestive wellness, detoxification, and cosmetic uses. Rich in silica, it is an inexpensive and versatile powder that can potentially support the health of hair, skin, and nails, as well as aid digestive regularity. However, it is paramount to use only the food-grade variety and to exercise caution to avoid inhalation. While the anecdotal support is widespread, it is important to remember that scientific evidence for many of the claimed benefits is limited. As with any supplement, consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before starting a new regimen.
National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) - Diatomaceous Earth Fact Sheet
