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The Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth and Silica

by | Jul 22, 2022 | Disease Prevention

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a white, sand-like material naturally made from the fossilized remains of diatoms—a type of single-cell phytoplankton or algae. They are the only organism on the planet with cell walls composed of silica, or silicon dioxide (SiO2)—a trace mineral made of silicon and oxygen that is invaluable to the human body. Approximately 85% of food-grade diatomaceous earth is silica, which is essential for the development and integrity of tendons, cartilage, blood vessels, skin, and bones; silica also contributes to almost every vital organ, including the heart, liver, and lungs.i,ii,iii

  • Improving colon health
  • Increasing speed of digestion
  • Improving mineral absorption
  • Promoting regular, healthier bowel movements
  • Detoxifying heavy metals
  • Increasing collagen productionvi
  • Enhancing health of bones, nails, skin, and hair
  • Eliminating parasites
  • Improving blood pressure and cardiovascular health
  • Reducing cholesterolvii

Research about DE specifically, however, is limited and almost always refers to its silica content as being the primary factor for health. However, it appears that the silica in DE is not readily absorbable, which is why we recommend combining DE with living organic silica. This combination takes advantage of DE’s ability to enhance mineral absorption and boost silica absorption. Remember, silica is the compound that strengthens bones, nails, and hair and hardens teeth, preventing tooth decay. Silica also enhances collagen production in the skin, which reduces wrinkles, fine lines, and dark circles.viii

When taken internally on its own, ditomaceous earth provides two known benefits—a slight reduction in cholesterol, and detoxification, including the possibility of reducing parasites and toxins.ix Because of its microscopic sharpness and drying effect, DE can dehydrate the exoskeleton of insects and worms, ultimately killing them, which makes them practical for parasite cleanses. While not yet proven in humans, researchers have shown that DE is effective in purging parasites, worms, and heavy metals in animals.x,xi In addition to common toxins from food, water, and air, the buildup of heavy metals in the body creates major metabolic and digestive concerns. Therefore, removing heavy metals from the body is essential to optimizing performance and avoiding permanent damage. With effective detoxification, your system will operate more efficiently, thereby improving the overall efficiency of your body.

Overall, when used properly, DE can effectively detoxify the body. Combined with living organic silica, it is a powerful booster of this much-needed trace mineral with many benefits.

  1. Martin KR. The chemistry of silica and its potential health benefits. The Journal of Nutrition Health and Aging. 2007 March-April;11(2):94-97.
  2. Diatoms of North America. (n.d.). What are Diatoms? https://diatoms.org/what-are-diatoms
  3. Diatomaceous. (n.d.). Silica Supplement Guide (DE vs Orthosilicic Acid vs Horsetail). https://diatomaceous.org/silica-supplement-guide
  4. Global Healing. (2018, February 8). Five Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth. https://explore.globalhealing.com/5-benefits-of-diatomaceous-earth/
  5. Leech, J. (2019, January 7). What Are the Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth? https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-is-diatomaceous-earth
  6. Silicium Laboratories LLC. (2021, April 13). LIVING SILICA ® EFFECTS IN COLLAGEN PRODUCTION. https://blog.livingsilica.com/silica-effects-in-collagen-production
  7. Wachter, H., Lechleitner, M., Artner-Dworzak, E., Hausen, A., Jarosch, E., Widner, B., Patsch, J., Pfeiffer, K., & Fuchs, D. (1998). Diatomaceous earth lowers blood cholesterol concentrations. European journal of medical research, 3(4), 211–215.
  8. Silicium Laboratories LLC. (2021, April 13). LIVING SILICA ® EFFECTS IN COLLAGEN PRODUCTION. https://blog.livingsilica.com/silica-effects-in-collagen-production
  9. Country Homestead Living. (n.d.). Diatomaceous Earth: Uses, Health Benefits, Is It Safe. https://www.countryhomesteadliving.com/diatomaceous-earth-benefits-safety/
  10. Mewis, I, & Ulrichs, Ch. (2001). Action of amorphous diatomaceous earth against different stages of the stored product pests Tribolium confusum, Tenebrio molitor, Sitophilus granarius and Plodia interpunctella. Journal of Stored Products Research, 37: 2. 153-164. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0022474X(00)00016-3
  11. José L Domingo, Mercedes Gómez, M Teresa Colomina, Oral silicon supplementation: an effective therapy for preventing oral aluminum absorption and retention in mammals, Nutrition Reviews, Volume 69, Issue 1, 1 January 2011, Pages 41–51, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1753-4887.2010.00360.x