While Diatomaceous Earth is considered safe to use, after our research of this topic, you might want to rethink whether or not to allow this natural, yet possibly dangerous material, into your home. For the readers who haven’t yet heard of diatomaceous earth, it is a naturally occurring sand within the earth that is comprised of microscopic bits of algae, called diatoms, which have taken millions of years to fossilize. Diatoms are made up of the chemical compound Silica. Now, the aforementioned sunstance is popular in treating pests around the home. When used as a pesticide, the silica is a mineral that is amazing with absorbency and will disturb the insects hard waxy layers, causing extreme loss of water, and eventually killing the insect through a means of dehydration. However, just because something is popular in use, does not always mean it is safe.

There are two main categories of diatomaceous earth, otherwise known as DE. One of these versions is food grade, which contains 0.5-2 percent of crystalline silica, and is the form used as an insecticide (as mentioned above), as well as other uses in the home. The other genre of DE is the filler grade containing more than 60 percent crystalline silica, making it toxic to all mammals. Filler grade DE is used industrially in dynamite production as well as in water filtration. That being said, I think it’s safe to say that it probably should not be used recreationally by the average human being. So, while it has been used for insect and bug killings, food grade and evaluated diatomaceous earth is threatening due to its silica ingredient. Silica is provenly dangerous when inhaled, it can and has caused lung disease to those who have been exposed. The inhalation of diatomaceous earth irritates the lungs and can cause inflammation and scarring. This is called Silicosis and could possibly be fatal.

It is probably best to avoid diatomaceous earth altogether, especially if your home contains pets and children. However, if you do decide to use DE, make sure you are also taking precautions as to limit any side effects. It is thought to be safer to use the diatomaceous earth that are evaluated and specified for pest control. Make sure to read the toxicity labels on the container where: “CAUTION”= the toxicity is low, “WARNING”= a medium or moderate toxicity level and “DANGER”= the toxicity is high. It is best to use a dust mask and gloves, as well as keeping children and pets away while handling and applying DE. Try to wear clothing that will protect your skin, i.e. long sleeves and pants. Keep the treated area non accessible to children and pets and last but not least, avoid kicking up dust on or near the area where the diatomaceous earth has been applied. Overall, it is best to always research a product, natural or not, before incorporating it into your home, make sure to read labels and follow directions when using any substance that you don’t know much about.