Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is one of my absolute favorite secret weapons in my healing tool box for deep healing of the body whether for humans, pets and in the garden. First, I need to mention that the DE I am speaking of is the food grade version, not the industrial version used in cleaning swimming pools.
So, let's explain Diatomaceous Earth in more detail. Diatoms are a major group of algae, and are among the most common types of phytoplankton. Most diatoms are unicellular, although they can exist as colonies in the shape of filaments or ribbons (e.g. Fragilaria), fans (e.g. Meridion), zigzags (e.g. Tabellaria), or stars (e.g. Asterionella). Diatoms are producers within the food chain. A unique feature of diatom cells is that they are enclosed within a cell wall made of silica (hydrated silicon dioxide) called a frustule. These frustules show a wide diversity in form, but are usually almost bilaterally symmetrical, hence the group name. The symmetry is not perfect since one of the valves is slightly larger than the other allowing one valve to fit inside the edge of the other. Fossil evidence suggests that they originated during, or before, the early Jurassic Period. (Source) Diatomaceous earth has so many health benefits primairy due to its high mineral content, which consists of approximately 89% amorphous silica and approximately 20 trace minerals. The silica in diatomaceous earth is also very effective in preventing premature aging. Silica can also make age spots fade and also helps to repair and maintain lung tissue elasticity.
Silica is the most abundant trace mineral on earth and specifically in our bodies. Healthy individuals walk around with more silica than any other mineral. It is involved in endless amounts of body functions and is critical to proper mineral absorption.
What I love most about DE is that it acts just like a scrubbing tool inside your digestive tract and then breaks down microbes especially parasites. Diatomaceous earth is probably the best natural anti-parasitic therapies. It is a natural pesticide that does not harm humans or pets when taken in safe dosages. It is believed to kill insects, worms and parasites by dehydrating them.
Diatomaceous Earth’s mode of action for parasite and insect control is strictly mechanical. The microscopically sharp edges contact the foreign invader, and pierce their protective coating, so they soon dehydrate and die. The larvae is affected in the same way. The sharp points found on fossilized diatom exoskeletons create a safe and non-toxic strong abrasive that scrubs intestinal walls and cuts up any parasites present in the digestive tract. Additionally, as it passes the digestive tract, it attracts and absorbs pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungi. It also absorbs and removes drug residues, heavy metals and pesticides. So, it is useful for people, pets and in the garden.
Human Health Benefits of DE
- Helps clear “dampness”
- Natural colon detoxifier
- Natural colon deodorizer
- Heavy metal detoxifier
- Helps to “clear the terrain” to restore healthy bowel movements
- Natural anti-parasitic
- Detoxes bacteria, viruses and candida
- Yeast infections
- Regulate blood pressure and cholesterol
- Help with aches and pain
- Helps with stubborn belly fat and weight loss
- Strengthens hair, supports the skin and toughens nails
- Healthy teeth and gums (can be used in remineralizing tooth paste)
- Restores energy levels (best to take in the a.m.)
- Kills bed bugs
DE Dosage for Humans
1/8 teaspoon for adults for the first week in the a.m. with a large glass of water. Take along with living clay and strong probiotics. After 1 week slowly ramp up to 1/4 teaspoon if all goes well, then after the third week, you can try to slowly ramp up to 1/2 tsp then 1 teaspoon with a full 8 ounces of water per day, preferably on an empty stomach with the living clay and probiotics. Be sure to stir your mixture consistently as DE tends to settle to bottom of glass. Consistency is key for true results, plan to use for 14 days, then stop for one week, and begin again. This should kill/slice the biofilms after about one month.
*NOTE: DE is naturally very dehydrating and detoxifying. This is the action that kills harmful microbes. If after taking it, you notice a dry throat, mouth, dry upon swallowing, etc… you may be experiencing “die-off” and are most likely taking too much. Less is more with DE. It could be working on harmful micro-organisms in the throat and mouth and even lungs. I recommend pausing for a day or two then resume with smaller dosages early in the day, perhaps just an 1/8 of a tsp every other day with a very large glass of water.
I would NOT recommend taking DE while pregnant or nursing, as it is very detoxifying.
DE for Pet Issues
In addition to DE, I also highly recommend this diet for dogs and cats to help with any health issues.
- Natural flea killer
- Natural tick killer
- Detoxes parasites
- Excellent de-wormer (eliminates roundworms, whipworms, pinworms, and hookworms within seven days of using DE consistantly.
- Detoxes the colon
- Great for allergies
To be most effective, Diatomaceous Earth should be fed for at least 30 days, to catch all newly hatching eggs or the cycling of the worms through the lungs and back to the stomach.
DE Dosage for Pets
When giving pets diatomaceous earth orally, just mix it in their food and moisten with water or bone broth.
Felines
Kittens should receive 1/8 of a teaspoon every other day while large cats should be given 1/4 teaspoon/day
Canines
Very small dogs should receive 1/8 teaspoon/every other day
Dogs under 50 pounds – 1/8 teaspoon/day
Dogs 50 to 100 pounds – 1/4/day
Dogs more than 100 pounds – 1/2 tsp/day
Note: I would slowly ramp up to the full dose over a 7 day period, go slow to avoid a healing crisis. Start with a small dose and work up.
For external parasite control, simply rub the powder at full strength into the coat for fleas and sprinkle on bedding. Consistency is key for true results, plan to use for 30 days.
DE in the Garden
Use DE in your garden to help with ridding these insects:
- Aphids
- Thrips
- Ants
- Mites
- Earwigs
- Bedbugs
- Adult Flea Beetles
- Cockroaches
- Snails
- Slugs
- Tomato bugs
To the insects, the diatomaceous earth is a lethal dust with microscopic sharp edges that cut through the insect’s protective covering, causing them to dry out, thus killing them when they are either dusted with the diatomaceous earth or applied in a wet spray form.
One of the benefits of diatomaceous earth for insect control is that the insects it helps to control, have no way to build up a resistance to the diatomaceous earth, like with many of the chemical control insecticides.
The diatomaceous earth will not harm the worms or any of the beneficial microorganisms in the soil.
In the garden diatomaceous earth may be applied as a dust with a dust applicator approved for such use. Even though this is food grade DE, you may want to wear a dust mask during application of the diatomaceous earth and leave the mask on until you have left the dusting area. Keep pets and children clear of the dusting area until the dust has settled.
It is better to apply the product in a wettable form. If it rains right after the dust application, it will need to be reapplied. A great time to do the dust application is right after a light rain or in the very early morning when the dew is upon the foliage as it helps the dust to stick well to the foliage.
For doing the spray application of diatomaceous earth, the mix ratio is usually one (1) cup of diatomaceous earth per ½ gallon or two (2) cups per gallon of water. Keep the mix tank agitated or stir it often to keep the diatomaceous earth powder well mixed with the water. This mix may also be applied as a paint of sorts to trees and some shrubs. Consistency is key for true results.
Where to Purchase DE and Other Helpful Resources:
- Food Grade DE
- Living Clay (I recommend taking along with DE for BEST results)
- Strong Probiotics (I recommend taking along with DE for BEST results)
- Pest pistol (used to evenly distribute DE in home for fleas and other pests and in the garden)
- Bed bug and other pest trap
NOTE: If you have specific questions regarding DE or want more guidance, I cannot answer your personal questions until you are an active client. Please feel free to contact me for the health history form for you and/or your pet and I would love to consult with you one-on-one and answer your questions. Local Grand Rapids, MI clients only at this time.
Sources:
http://www.naturalnews.com/030688_Diatomaceous_earth_health.html#
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diatomaceous_earth
http://www.earthworkshealth.com/human-use.php
http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/diatomaceous-earth-insect-control.htm
http://www.morethanalive.com/Diatomaceous-Earth-Food-Grade-Powder
http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/benefits-diatomaceous-earth/
Do you use DE? How has it helped you, your pet or in the garden?
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Hi Melissa,
I recently ordered PF Harris Food Grade DE from Amazon and on bag it said its only for animal consumption. However Amazon seller told me this item contains the same Fresh Water DE as those who state for human consumption. Is this true, can PF Harris Food Grade be consumed by humans? Please let me know, I am trying to decide whether I should return it or not.
Thanks.
Alex, I’m not familiar with that brand. In my article, I have linked to Nature’s Wisdom Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth. I may exchange it, it’s better to be on the safe side, IMHO anyway.
Hi. Thanks for the info! I want to start talking de. So you mention to start with 1/8 tsp de n clay. Would that be 1/8 tsp clay too? Both mixed in the same glad of water or?
Hi Bobbi, I did not give an exact dose on the clay, as everyone is different, but the same ratio would be a good place to start of 1/8 tsp. Keep us posted!
Hi, I found article on DE and order the food grade I also see you say living clay? Do I have to take them both to get cleansed? Ty
Hi Angela. for a deeper cleanse, yes I recommend both. Thank you
Hi Melissa,
Just stumbled across your website while searching on DE. I have taken DE several times and actually take about a tablespoon at a time followed by plenty of water. No bad effects. I also just purchased some terramin clay and started using it yesterday. I slept really good and could tell something was going on with my nasal and lungs, too. I did smoke a lot and I still vape instead, but I know I should stop that, also.
I’m thinking of doing a 7 day parasite cleanse. In fact, I think I saw some worms in my stool today from the clay. I am going to take DE first, wait an hour, take the clay, about a tbsp in water, and then follow that up in an hour or two with glucomannan, to make sure I have a good flush of my bowels.
Also, my neighbor had a lot of health problems, thyroid and trouble with digestion. At first I gave him some Lugol’s Iodine, and warned him of possible reaction. He did, and then I gave him a bottle of tincture of Iodine and told him to paint an inch square on smooth skin and see how quickly it disappeared. He says it’s gone in an hour, so he paints another square. He is obviously Iodine deficient. I also gave him some monolaurin from Inspired Nutrition, called the Ultimate Monolaurin. It’s in little pellets. Don’t buy the cheap capsules they are no good. In a day or two, all of bad symptoms were gone, he was feeling great and looking much, much better. We still don’t know if it was the monolaurin or the iodine or maybe both. But thought I would mention the Monolaurin as it is a powerful virus, bacteria, and parasite killer.
Robert
Wonderful Robert, thank you for the testimonial!
I love DE, but I find I get severe headaches and cannot tolerate any bright light at all if I take even a tiny bit too much. I believe I may have mercury exposure. Besides taking probiotics along with DE is there anything else you can such? I stay well hydrated but I do find the DE constipating and have to be really careful.
On the positive side, I get better energy, sounder sleep and I think my skin, hair and nails might be improving, but perhaps early to say for sure.
Thank you!
Great question, but it sounds like something else is going on. I would recommend working with a skilled naturopath to look at your underlying imbalances.
I believe that’s a side effect of a vitamin B deficiency. Make sure you get enough in your diet. If you don’t have a problem with tracking food and are not prone to calorie tracking I’d suggest using the app cronometer (also available on the web) to track your food and see how many nutrients you are getting daily. It will show you whether or not you are getting enough.
Hello! Thanks so much for the great article! I started a parasite cleanse using first a psyllium husk/liquid bentonite clay drink, followed (1 hour later) by a black walnut/wormwood, clove tincture. What are your thoughts or reccomendations to adding the DE to my psyllium/bentonite mixture?
That should be fine. Thanks for reading Tommi.
I have been using DE as a pesticide (for fleas in my carpets); when I am vacuuming it up, I wear a mask just in case, but my mouth has been really dry since then. Is this normal? Is there anything I can do to rectify this issue?
Are you absolutely using FOOD GRADE, it must be food grade? If yes, you may be more sensitive than others. I know taking it orally can sometimes create dryness, but I haven’t heard of that happening in someone sprinkling it on carpet and wearing a mask. Perhaps use a little less, and try taking liquid minerals and fresh squeezed lemon in your water before hand, wearing your mask and having the windows open.
Yes, it is food grade. I was mostly breathing through my mouth with the mask on, when working with the powder/vacuuming it up, so maybe that has something to do with it?
Thanks for the advice.
Yes, my suggestion since DE is negatively charged, you’ll want to replace minerals, that could potentially cause dryness.
Okay. What kind of liquid minerals would you recommend?
http://www.integrativenutritionaltherapies.com/magnificent-magnesium-powerful-healing-mineral
Hi Melissa, when you said taking for 14 days does it counts from the first day taking 1/4 or once I am on a full dose in the third week?
Yes it does.
Hi Melissa, What about the small amounts of heavy metals in the DE? Is this a problem or negligible since the amounts are small. Thanks
According to all my research, no issues. Thanks Eddie.
I’ve read most all the comments and replies and could not find any info that addresses an issue I have concerning detoxing with DE. I’m 66 and take (2) dietary supplements, L-Glutamine and DHEA.. I plan to start my DE detox January 2018, should I been concerned about my dietary supplements?? Thanks Much Joe McWhorter / New Braunfels Texas
Hi Joe, I don’t know which brands and what dosages. This would be a question to take up with your practitioner. Keep up the good work!
I was blissfully unaware of parasites and attributed irregular bowels to a case of IBS. Recently, I noticed that I started breaking out in rashes and researching the problem, I believed it to be either Tinea or a yeast infection on the skin. Not entirely sure, I decided to try a candida cleanse supplement as well as using Bluestar Ointment to get rid of the rash. At first, I noticed my digestion was getting better and I went from every other day with a bowel movement to 1-2x a day. This was an improvement. Suddenly, I started getting rectal itching. So I did some more research and I must have stirred the pot with something as it began waking me up at night. As I researched this issue, I found it might be pinworms! Now I don’t think it was as I haven’t seen any, but regardless, I had a big bag of Food Grade DE I had used in the past for gardening as it prevented pests eating the harvests from my hobby vegetable garden. I figured I’d try it out.
Fast forward about 6-7 days to now and OMG I think I was happier when I was blissfully ignorant of these things, however, I am glad I am now aware. I’ve passed a few rope worms (from what I could tell)… GROSS! I’ve also seen lots of other little things in my stool since starting this cleanse. The first 3-4 days, I was bloated, irritable, and felt slightly constipated even though I was going. It started small and then day 3, a major blowout with various pests found in the bowl. I was thoroughly grossed out. Since then, I’ve had a few other things get expelled from my system, and I’ve been taking 1 tbsp of DE in cold water each morning. In the evening, I’ve concocted a smoothie 2-4 garlic cloves, 1/8 tsp cinnamon, 1/8 tsp clove, 1tsp red pepper flakes, 6oz of water, and 1-2 large ice cubes. I throw that into a blender and then drink it down. The combo seems to be working as I’ve been much more productive at work, able to stay away longer, and I’m not really that tired in the AM anymore. I plan to continue this for up to 10-14 days and then take a week off, followed by starting up the regimen again. Anyway, I thought I’d share as I’ve been reading through the comments.
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Shirley Heche
Can you give this to kids? If so, what is the dosage for kids? I have a 6, 4, and 2 year old struggling with what the doctors think is pinworm.
Pixie dust amounts for kids. Less is more, start very slow and monitor. Thank you for reading Rebekah.
Hi Melissa,
Does DE also kill the good bacteria in the gut?
No it doesn’t.
but – why is it not killing the good bacteria? how is that possible? it is mechanic killing, how can the good ones survive… and the bad ones??? thank you for looking into this
It detoxes pathogens. I also recommend taking a strong probiotic with it as well. The link is in the article.
Hi Melissa, Does DE contain iodine?
Loreley
Food grade diatomaceous earth is ~74-84% silica, and contains some 20 trace minerals. D.E. is roughly about 3% magnesium, 19% calcium, 5% sodium, 2% iron and various other trace minerals like titanium, boron, manganese, copper and also zirconium.
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I was wondering. I am currently taking matula once in am and evening. If I am adding diatomaceous earth to my regimen and living clay, when should I take those? Before or after my matula tea in morning which recommends doing on empty stomache first thing.
Thank you
You can try both and see which yields the best results.
I am not having any luck locating the living clay. Would you recommend another product or brand?
Sorry about that Lindsey, I updated the links in the article. Here it is again: http://amzn.to/2s0H61D. Thanks so much for reading.
Hi! I’ve been reading up on using DE as a supplement, but I have a shellfish allergy. I have read mostly that this shouldn’t be an issue, but one or two articles I read have said it can possibly be an issue. What are your thoughts? Thanks!
I typically don’t see an issue, but everyone is different, and there could be something else going on, such as a detox reaction. You could try a very very low dose and very slowly increase.
Great post, Melissa.
I’m just starting to use / look into DE and I have a few questions:
Have you done any research or come to any conclusions about how long it’s recommended / advisable to take DE?
Also, if DE has a negative charge, wouldn’t it remove things that have a positive charge including things that we want in our body like Na+? Does taking DE 1 hour away from other things prevent the strong negative charge from removing positively charged things that we would want in our bodies? Or perhaps I am understanding the positive and negative charge issue the wrong way.
Thanks!
Hi Adrienne, thanks for reading. In general, I recommend taking DE for roughly 14 days, then stop for one week, and begin again and rotate, if need be for around 90 days total, while tracking your symptoms. And yes any time you are using substances with a negative charge you want to replace the positives. An example would be chelation therapy….it takes out the heavy metals but you must replace the minerals, same with the clays and diatomaceous earth. They are very helpful to us but we must always remember to put the positive back in place. That is when working with a skilled functional nutrition practitioner is important, they can test for individual minerals and see what you may be low in and need during the process. Hope this helps.
Could you explain (or send me a link to an source that explains) why I would not want to nurse while using DE? I’m nursing now and planning on nursing for at least a year here. My husband and I would like to have a 3-4 children and I want to nurse them all. So in essence, does this mean for all those years pregnant/nursing I shouldn’t use DE? If so, What alternatives would you recommend detoxing?
DE facilitates detoxification, many times deeper detox, which is not safe or recommended when pregnant and/or nursing. For alternatives to detoxing, you’ll want to discuss with your naturopath you’re working with. There are many layers to this.
What treatment plan do you recommend for pinworms?
It will be different for each case. I give protocols once I work with a client.
What is the best protocol for taking de with prescribed meds?
There should not be any contra-indications, however, always check with your licensed medical doctor first.
can multivitamins (Centrum for Adults, at Costco) take in conjunction with DE? if they can take together when is a good time to take? and if I start a low dose of DE how long should I take per a session? Thank you
Yes you can and at any time, however, I would not recommend store bought ones, such as centrum, there is no nutrition to those and many preservatives.
Can I gargle diatemecious earth for oral thrush?
You can try. First things that come to my mind for thrush though are: Sea Salt, Baking Soda, *Strong* Probiotics, Coconut Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, no sugar or carby foods.
Oil pull with coconut oil, de earth an xylitol! 🙂
Wonderful Rachel!
Can I use Bentonite Clay or does it need to be Redmond? Thank you!
Redmond is the brand of bentonite clay, and excellent quality. I always recommend what I can verify works with good quality.
Thank you for your quick response! I found Great Plains bentonite in my local whole foods, I will have to order Redmond. Thanks for the recommendation!
You’re welcome, please keep me posted.
Hi! I’ve been preparing to start diatomaceous earth for my 2 yo son. We are planning to kill and eliminate hookworms that we believe have been hitching a ride since May this year. Is there a safer dose for a typical 3ft tall 2 year old than starting with ⅛ tsp or should I plan to start there and proceed accordingly?
I saw that you recommend a day or 2 off, so I’m just going to gauge him (based on hydration, overall comfort, and die-off reactions, etc.).
Any help is appreciated. I know you aren’t able to evaluate him, but just hoping you could give some recommendation.
For sure, less is more and starting slow and ramping up slowly is best. Yes, observe closely and use strong probiotics too.
Hi Melissa,
I began taking DE four days ago, starting out with 2 tsps, which I think was too much. I felt a bit of cramping on the second day. And yesterday the cramping was just horrible and I had diarrhea. I lowered the dose to 1 tsp this morning, but still have bad cramping and diarrhea (although not as bad as yesterday). I will lower the dose again, and maybe just do every other day for now. Generally speaking, I don’t feel unhealthy, and I only started taking DE because my mother-in-law bought it to help with my hair, which really thinned out after pregnancy. After getting upset stomach, I did more research, and realized I’m detoxing. As painful as it it, I’d like to continue. If there’s bad stuff to get out, I want to get it out! Is the diarrhea and cramping normal (I drink lots of water because I read that DE can cause constipation)? Am I having a Herx reaction?
Thanks for any info you can offer!
It does sound like retracing or a healing crisis. This is why working with a skilled practitioner is so helpful. You very well may also need strong probiotics, minerals and a good drainage/lymph protocol.
hi
Last week I started with 1tsp of DE and got severe bloating, headaches, tingling scalp, feeling wired, heart palpitations, mentally out of it. I am very sensitive and cannot handle things like alcohol, caffeine or any stimulants, and though I know this is not a stimulant, still felt that way. No matter how much water I drank (about a gallon/day), I felt intensely dehydrated… The only time Ive had a reaction like this was when I attempted taking Iodine supplement which I quickly learned I am allergic to after experimenting with lower and lower dosages for a couple weeks. Same side effects as this. So I took 5 days off and resumed my balance and tried 1/4 tsp of DE yesterday morning… and same exact thing happened, no lesser degree! Woke up this morning super wired still bloated and tingly… Not sure if this is just not for me but Id love some feedback… I am glad to have just seen this site that says to start with 1/8tsp… maybe i will take a day off today and attempt that dosage tmrw? hard to imagine i won’t feel the same thing though…. my health is pretty ‘fine’, no big problems… my sense is that its heavy medal detox that I’m experiencing even though I’ve never had any mercury fillings etc… thanks for any feedback***
You may want to take a longer break from it and work on cleaning up your channels of elimination first. It sounds like the toxins aren’t able to move out and your having a histamaine/herx reaction. I would work on the liver, kidneys, gut and lungs first for a couple months. Then when you add in the DE go very very very slow. Like a pinch every other day and work up, but always listen to your body. DE can be a very potent detoxifier for many folks. Go slow. If you need more one on one working through this, I’m happy to help. Feel free to send over your health history form.
Hi Melissa,
Thank you very much for your response. This is what I was thinking was going on… and possibly why I had the same reaction to iodine…
I saw on the health history form that there is an initial consultation fee. Is that required to get feedback from the health history form?
thanks,
Lindsay
Hi Lindsay, yes, as a naturopath, working directly with me, those are my fees.
What therapy do you recommend for “cleaning up your channels of elimination and working on liver, kidney, and lungs”. Is this a therapy totally separate from using DE?
Thank you!
I use a whole host of protocols for clients in my office, which is case by case. Feel free to read through my health articles on my blog for more details on what I share publicly. Thank you
The experiences I have had in the past with different herbs and remedies that target parasites, is that the responses I get are rarely from me, but are from the parasites. I am only wired and anxious because they are anxious. I am bloated because they are triggering gas. I get an intensely itchy and prickly scalp and an instant headache because they have gone into hatching overdrive as a preservation instinct and the larvae are moving around my scalp.
Palpitations can even have parasite involvement. I am fortunate (if you can call it that) in that I am aware of my parasites. I feel their movements and know that the strange symptoms I get are to do with their activity. But most people are blissfully unaware of their presence – only that they feel lethargic and unwell. They steal our health and vitality.
These things can emit unnatural enzymes and hormones, block our enzymes and hormones, and release substances that can trigger histamine or neurotoxins. They can trigger cravings (they make you crave the food they want!), and keep you awake at night (they are nocturnal). Do you feel worse around Full Moon (and to a lesser extent New Moon…)? They do a lot of breeding and hatching around that time.
Many people who have taken DE for some time have found (undoubtedly as the parasitic load is lowered) their allergies and sensitivities going away. Whilst the Silica in DE is touted as being responsible for connective tissue support, better hair, skin, nails, teeth and gums, and overall wellbeing, I suspect the real benefit comes from no longer having parasites continually hijacking ones’ nutrition…….
Ali, what a wonderful awareness, I love it!! Are you a practitioner of some sort, if not, you could help a lot of people. Thanks so much for the comment, feel free to chime in at anytime here 🙂
Hi Melissa. No I am not a qualified professional (although I feel like one, sometimes….LOL), but just an avid learner and analyzer. I have learned a lot about my body and how to read it since I started this journey 9 years ago.
What I do know is that we are made of the elements, and if any of those elements cannot get through, or are being hijacked – either by parasites, or by poor choices of nutritionally-deplete or empty pseudo-food diverting the nutrients, we get sick.
Well, you are a very dialed in individual, again, you are always welcome to comment on my blog. Thanks again for reading and being you!
You are right on, I couldn’t have said it better. I’m 65 and have had 3 cancers& 16 surgrys..I have bra 2. Been sick all my life. But I line dance& still active. DE and grounding are the best things I’ve found. Your very smart for your age. Joyful health to you. Dianalynn
Is this protocol safe 2-3 months pruor to trying to conceive?
It should be, listen to your body.
Hi! After my pregnancy I had diagnosed with candida and now I have a lot of sugar craving, and of course gain weight like never before so I read that clean the liver using Choline, B complex and acid folic can help to clean my liver and loose weight, should I start with those before taking DE and clay?
Hi Belinda. It’s hard to say in a blog comment. I give specific direction when I work one-on-one with clients, as everyone is different. I’m happy to write a protocol out for you. Please send over your health history form first. Thanks much!
Melissa, all this talk about killing parasites and micro organisms makes me concerned about the good bacteria. Does DE and living clay kill these too?
Thanks, Susanne
Great question and no they don’t disrupt beneficial bacteria 🙂
How can the DE not harm all bacteria, good or bad?
Hi Roy, Diatomaceous Earth will not absorb beneficial bacteria simply due to the fact that DE has a negative charge and bad bacteria has a positive charge. DE will attract and absorb the bad bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc without harming anything good or beneficial.
Thank you for the informative post. I have just started taking DE and would like to start it with my son, who is 11 and treating Lyme. Because he takes other supplements and antibiotics, I am trying to figure out what is a good time to take the DE. You mention taking the DE with probiotics – that confuses me because I thought DE was killing bacteria in the gut yet it is okay to take it with good bacteria (probiotics)?
You can take them at opposite times of the day. It targets the pathogenic bacteria.
Hi,
You mentioned Diatomaceous Earth can kill/slice biofilm. But what about killing/slicing SIBO that makes biofilm? There’s not much info on the web about Diatomaceous Earth and SIBO, I’m assuming because there hasn’t been many studies on it, or many testimonies of people who tried it. I’m doing a trial of DE for SIBO and Parasites. I have been tested positive for a fairly common parasite, but haven’t been tested for SIBO although it’s suspect. I figure it’s worth a try to at least kill off the parasite, and hopefully any candida, bacterial and SIBO in the process.
Cheers,
Michael
Unless I bioenergetically assess a client, I’m not sure if it is exactly what they need to balance them. Please keep me posted though, I’d love to know if it helped you Michael. Thanks!
Hi,
Well, I’m on my 3rd week of DE. I actually started right in at 1 teaspoon twice per day. For the first two weeks, I felt a bit better after taking a dose, my bowels were fine, my gut seemed to feel better in a way, less malaise/nausea kind of feelings, more energy, etc… But, then as the 3rd week approached, I because VERY dehydrated, constipated, some chills at times, but after drinking TONS of water the other day, my bowels are very normal. But…..today after my afternoon dose of DE, I started feeling really ill like, malaise/nausea again. I haven’t felt like this is in a long time. My gut is also VERY tight, not bloated but TIGHT. I have an appetite, I can eat, no heart burn, but slight acid reflux on occasion.
Can it take some time before a major detox takes place? Sounds like some people detox reactions happen right away, for me seemed like it’s taken 2 weeks or more. But, I’ve been doing other detox related stuff, glutathione, fulvic acid, Chorella/Cilantro/Oregano, etc…
Anyway, I’ve read that some of these symptoms could be related to die-off of parasites, things getting congested in the gut from the die-off, etc… I’m hoping this is just temporary die-off. Maybe some parasites are just now dying off, maybe the biofilm of the SIBO is breaking apart and SIBO is exposed and dying off? Not sure. I will keep taking DE and see how it goes. I might take a break this weekend as I’m headed out of town, then resume on Monday.
Cheers
It can be die off and everyone’s timeline is unique to them depending on the function of their liver, kidneys and lymph. But again really really listen to your body. I find that DE can be super drying and can create a tightness, even in the chest/lungs. Go slow and take breaks otherwise the pathogenic microorganism can adapt.
I had parasites and slight candida….I have been using the Lady Soma Candida Cleanse – I first took 6 pills right away – WORMS GONE. I noticed when I elimated alot of dead worms and those round like parasites…..they are also super gentle on my system. I didnt even use the whole Lady Soma bottle…i still have it in my drawer cause it cleared me up right away….
Wow, that is amazing Mary! Great work.
Hello!
I have been searching to find an answer to my question about DE with no luck! I know that a lot of ‘clean you out’ type of things are not to be taken around the same time as other supplements. How long should I wait before & after taking DE to take my other supplements? Probiotic/Chlorella/Zinc/B’s
Thank you!!
Hi Sara, opposite times of the day is fine.
Hello! re the 2 weeks on, 1 week off for the DE, do you recommend doing the same with the clay – or keep the clay going? I presume the probiotics are ongoing? Thanks!
Great job! You can actually experiment both ways and see what yields the best results. But the clay and probiotics with the DE for sure. Most folks probiotics ongoing works well.
Would it be OK to take DE as well as digestive enzyme capsules.
Should be.
I’m definitely going to try this! So many things I hope it helps me with! I’ll try to get back to you with results after I start!
Thanks for the great info!
Excellent, keep me posted Jennifer!
Anyone know if it’s normal to have nausea and other related issues when taking DE? I WISH constipation was my problem. Well, no, I don’t, but…ugh. It’d be better than what I’m experiencing. I get chills and then have to run to the bathroom over and over. Miserable. I started with 1/2 teaspoon, and now I’ve moved down to a teeny little scoop (I think it’s 1/8) in 16.9 oz of water. I actually skipped yesterday, and may start doing it every other day. I just drank only half the bottle and feel slightly nauseous, stomach is kinda growling… UGH! It’s been almost two weeks. I really want to stick with this but good lord, it’s hard. I thought if I got any detox symptoms it’d just be headaches, feeling tired…that sort of thing. Stomach issues are the worst for me.
My fear is that this isn’t related to detoxing, too – that I just can’t handle the DE. I hope that’s not the case. I have bad eye floaters and have seen multiple people – probably at least ten – talking about how DE worked for their eye floaters. I also have muscle pain that the doctors have been unable to diagnose/treat successfully.
Hi Lynn
It sounds like you might want to pause the DE. There are many other ways to balance microorganism in the body aside from using DE. Check out my other articles on gut health. If you still need more 1:1 guidance, I am happy to help. Please download then fill out the health history form and email it back. And I can guide you step by step.
Hi I suspected I had parasites and got DE that I’ve had for a week now and on 1T dose. my mom started on a low dose now too although she is constipated and wants to stop because of the DE being a cause. Is that temporary or is there some laxative/colon cleanse thing your supposed to do? also I myself have been good and then some bad symptoms again, hoping that’s the die-off
I recommend adding the two products I mention in my article that help with the DE. You can also add my bowel cleansing smoothie, its great for kick starting peristalsis.
I’m just starting DE. I have lyme and parasites.
How far away from food and supplements, meds do i need to take DE?
I tend ti wake in the middle of the night and i take charcoal and it helps me get back to sleep. somethings going crazy!!!! can i take the DE with the charcoal?
this way it will be away from everything?? will the charcoal absorb the DE???
Hi Megan, yes you can take the DE with the charcoal for optimal functioning of the nutrients.
What about “incurable viruses?” Will the DE attract those viruses as well?
Hi Nikki, I cannot guarantee anything. The best way to find out is to get in and try it. Please keep me posted.
I have had the ebstien bar virus 20 yr.s I starting taking DE and felt better after 2 days but then started to feel really tired and foggy after a week of being on it . Am I detoxing ? How long does it take to feel the effect of the detox . should I ride this out ? What are symptoms of detoxing
thanks Erin
Hi Erin
These are great questions and deserve more time and investigation based on your health history and a full body and lifestyle assessment. I’m happy to do a full evaluation, look at the root issues and give you the answers to get you results. Feel free to fill out the health history form and email back to me: http://www.integrativenutritionaltherapies.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Client-Health-History-Form.pdf
Hi Melissa,
I am trying to get rid of some parasites picked up on a recent trip, and as I have read about different methods to get rid of these nasty guys there seems to be a lot of confusing information on needing to do a liver cleanse before targeting the digestive system, because of detox effects. Could you address this? I’m worried about hurting my liver but your recommendations for DE seem very gentle to begin with….thanks very much!
Hi Kim
It’s always important to keep the liver detox pathway open, especially if you are doing a deeper cleanse. So I would recommend doing some liver work first. I’d be happy to guide you and give you step-by-step directions to take the confusion out of this process. Here is the health history form to fill out and email back if you are interested.
I am a healthy 83, a healthy vitamin/mineral/supplement nut for
52 years. I started ‘DE’ over 2 years ago, never less than 1 tbsp a day, or more, with 6 to 12 grams of vitamin ‘C’.
‘DE’ is a truly amazing whole body nutrient.
Excellent! Thank you so much for your testimonial.
I started taking DE a few weeks ago. I am currently breastfeeding a 6 month old baby. I started on a low dose 1/8 tsp and am now taking 1/2 tsp. I have felt better since I started taking it but I am concerned about toxins in the breastmilk. I was told it was safe to take while breastfeeding, but now see some information on the internet that states otherwise. Do you know if it is safe while breastfeeding?
I absolutely would NOT recommend taking DE while pregnant or nursing, I think its better to error on the side of safety and caution and DE is pretty detoxifying.
Thank you for your response 🙂 I quit taking DE a few days ago. Of course now I have the worry of what toxins have passed through my milk to my baby 🙁 He has had cold symptoms and I am concerned this may be a sign of toxic milk….
what if you go past the 14 day period for this detox i have been doing it for almost 4 weeks now im taking 1 tbs of the redmond clay and 3 tsp of DE
1 tsp* of the Redmond clay
Rotation is very beneficial, as microbes learn to morph and hide. Pausing and then restarting, I find is beneficial.
How is de for hpylori infections
Thanks,
Verne
DE is known to slice and dice most micro-organisms.
Hi Melissa, If I am on prescription meds for different reasons. And of coarse I’m sure they are toxic to my body, (working on eliminating what I can) Will I always have die off symptoms when I do the DE. I am a juvenile diabetic for the last 32 years and battle high blood sugars which creates the yeast beast. But eat very clean. Thanks for any help!! I do take a lot of good probiotics already which helps.
Hi Dawn, it’s hard to know for sure if someone will experience die-off in advance. Most people have toxins of some sort. So, my recommendation is to go very very slow to start. 1/8 tsp with a large glass of water and you can even do this just every other day – see how you feel, then slowly ramp up. Be sure you have adequate draining support and your lymph is clearing too. Other tips: use a foam roller, lift light weights, dry skin brush, stretch, get massages, etc…
Hi Melissa, Thank you for the tips, not quite sure what you mean by drainage support and how to clear my lymph system. I do lift weights and have a roller so I”ll star to use that. I also have this thing called a Wellbox that has rollers of various sizes with a suction hose. Helps to stimulate muscle and fat, would that help. Thanks again for all your help…
Dawn
I was a reluctant detoxifying participant ( my little sisters idea) I just finished and past an 18 in parasite ok now I’m a believer and freaked out! I’m so sick and so thin this is why, I may never eat meat again, I’m disgusted
Wow, Amber that is the power of detox. Can I use your testimonial, do you have a picture of the parasite? Also, the parasite and eggs could have very easily come from produce, door knobs, a hand shake, pets or the soil. They are everywhere, that’s why you have to keep a boosted immune system, strong digestive tract and keep things moving. Thanks for sharing.
Hello! Great article. I’m wondering if it’s okay to do the DE cleanse during the early stages of pregnancy? Thanks!
I would not recommend it. DE is very powerful and detoxifying, it’s better to be on the safe side.
Do you take DE and clay and probiotics literally at the same time, or at different times of day? Can I mix DE and clay in the same glass of water? Or would that negate the effects of either?
I recommend making a sludgy cocktail with DE, clay and filtered water to drink together. The probiotics you can take anytime throughout the day as usual. You might even want to up your dose a bit of probiotics during this protocol.
Thanks so much for your advice!
Have you heard of anyone with gastroparesis taking DE and the outcome? I’m trying to find something that may help a friend in very much need. Thanks so much in advance
I’ve worked with lots of clients on correcting the root cause to digestive issues, even motility concerns. Every person is different and their imbalances and causes are unique to them. Some may do well with DE, but there may be other factors as well that need to be covered. I would recommend working 1:1 with a seasoned practitioner to determine that for your friend or they can always try, by starting slow and see how it works.
Does DE need to be taken on an empty stomach? Taken away from medication or supplements?
Catherine, you can take with food or away. I would experiment and see what yields the best results for you, everyone is different.
Melissa, Thank you! I will try both and see. How about thyroid meds or supplements? Does it interfere with them?
Hi Catherine, no contraindications with nutritional supplements in the literature, as far as meds, since I am not a licensed MD I would refer to one just to be sure. Sorry I couldn’t be more help with that.
Thank you for this article. I have been diagnosed with systemic candida and have a lot of related issues tagging alone and making my life miserable, too. I want to try DE but words like “cut” referring to the intestinal tract make me a bit squeamish. ..also, I read that bentonite clay and other clays are not independently tested for arsenic, Mercury and other heavy metals that can be harmful. How can I be sure that the clay I buy is free from those? Can you take DE with flax instead? Thank you.
Hi Jo
I would recommend going with a well sourced clay such as Redmond. “Every plant and animal alive contains a trace amount of heavy metals, which has been associated with healthy cellular function and metabolic processes.” Many clays have small amounts naturally occurring metals. Read more here. You can try and take DE with flax and see if you are getting the results you are looking for. Just speaking from experience living clay is amazing and works well to clean the digestive tract. Think of DE as breaking down biofilms and other foreign invaders. But again, you need to feel comfortable with the process. Or even better, work one-on-one with a seasoned practitioner to help guide you.
Hi Melissa…Is it safe to take living clay everyday? and what are the benefits?
Thanks!
Hi Camille
This article straight from Redmond’s site explains it all, very natural, safe and effective: http://www.redmondclay.com/about/
Powder: http://amzn.to/1wwuTeX
Caps: http://amzn.to/10vRePb
Is a small dosage safe/ effective for treating E. coli in children (age 3 &5)?
Hi Nichole,
I can’t speak to “treating” anything, as I’m not an MD. For whole body support, I recommend strong probiotics http://amzn.to/1FR4uhg and fermented foods, you could also use very small doses of DE for children. Always go slow and use common sense.
Diamateous Earth works, for morgellons disease, along with food grade 35% grade peroxide, also jutrian rx
will give you all amino acids and minerals to fight these manmade invasions to our bodies!
Hi Sue
Thank you!
Hey Missy, I am having a terrible time with fleas on my dog this year. I was using Hartz oil on his back, then used Meijers brand, Neither worked and he got them. I had him flea dipped and sprayed the house down. Still he had them. Then he got ear infections and nasty hot spots. So he was put on antibioitics, steroids, sprays and ointment for weeks. And then I bought expensive oil from the vet a couple weeks ago and expensive house spray and did that. I put him on Diatomaceous earth over a month ago and faithfully give it every day. Today I found a flea on him again. He is an indoor dog, doesn’t go anywhere, and is on cement when he goes out to pee/poop. Help! I’ve sprayed him with your witch hazel essential oils spray too. I’m going broke on him. Love to you, Barb
Hi Barb
Thanks for the comment. Gosh, it sounds like there might be a few things going on. I would really need his health history and know his diet, meds, etc… But you can start with feeding him a total grain free diet and adding well sourced fats and proteins and fermented foods, all of this is on my blog. This will help boost his immune system to fight off the fleas. Here is my Animal Health category. Hope this is at least a start.
Thanks Missy. My dog isn’t on any meds. I was feeding meijers dry food and just switched to Iams Lamb and rice food. He’s never had any health problems before really other than hurting his back and a leg that healed on their own.
Yeah, I would do grain free, no rice, rice is still inflammatory. In the meantime you can add anti-inflammatory foods to it – fish oil, meat, fats and fermented foods.
Thank you.
Actually all kibble is actually unhealthy for cats. it is too high in plant based ingredients and too low in moisture to be considered a healthful diet. http://catinfo.org a website run by a vet who actually studies feline nutrition.
I offer real food resources that are realistic for people to feed their pets. Of course BARF or raw is best.
30 days is all it takes to get rid of heavy metals? I have been looking for a safe and effective way to get rid of lead. I am so happy to have found this article. Thank you!
Sometimes there needs to be more support for the body such as support for the liver and kidneys or the specific area where the metal is located as well. Using DE is a great start. Glad this was helpful!
I do take an herbal tincture for my liver but have not found anything for the kidneys. Do you know where I can support for my kidneys?
Hi Christy, I have several different kidney support nutrients I use for my clients. They provide deep detoxification and healing of the kidneys, along with repairing. They also help help with kidney overload and help open up the channels of elimination. Feel free to contact me.
Melissa
Have your heard of any contraindications for using DE? Or any stories in the positive or negative for using DE for 30 days or more? Thanks!
No contraindications, just go real slow so you don’t have a healing crisis. DE works really well! Lots of stories of correcting gut issues-constipation, parasites and yeast and correcting my pet clients issues-fleas, allergies, etc…
Keep me posted! I’d love to hear back from you.
I’m currently having bad stomach pains on my left side after taking DE for 3 days, 1 tsp each day in water. I also have been having a lot of small bowel movements for about 24 hours. Could the pains be from die off or detoxing too fast?
I feel much better today. After investigating my poo I identified at least 3 types of parasites including a tapeworm that was inches long!!! Yuck!!!
Wow! I bet you do feel much better. Thanks for the testimonial.
Could very well be. Detox has many signs, each person is different.
Thank you for referencing my article. I hope it was helpful!