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WHAT IS DIATOMATEOUS EARTH?

Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring, silicon rich sedimentary rock made up of fossilized remains of millions of  diatoms, a type of hard-shelled plant  algae  originally deposited millions of years ago in the earth from dried up seas and lakes. DE is approximately 3% magnesium,86% silicon, 5% sodium, 2% iron and many other trace minerals such as titanium, boron ,manganese, copper and zirconium.

NATURAL INTERNAL PARASITE CONTROL

DIATOMS CONCENTRATE can be effective against internal parasites in that it acts as a buffer in the stomach creating a constantly neutral pH which results in an unsuitable environment for the feeding and reproduction of the parasites.Conversely, it creates an optimum environment for the animals’ digestive systems. The second aspect of internal parasite control takes place when the tiny particles come into contact with parasites and it damages them and kills them, without harming the internal organs of the host animal.DE is not a panacea but it has a place in a feeding or management program. People have to make their own judgment as to whether it is an adequate form of parasite control. It can enhance a control program - used in conjunction with other methods - and you may not have to rely so heavily on other measures. There is a big distinction between deworming and parasite control. Diatomaceous earth is not really a dewormer, but should be considered to be a form of parasite control. If the parasites get out of control, then you need a dewormer. It's important to make this distinction.

NATURAL PESTICIDE

It is also used for fly control; since some of it is not digested, it passes on through with the manure, where it inhibits the fly larvae after flies lay their eggs in the manure. One can also sprinkle DE on manure heaps and in messy areas of stable yards. Diatomaceous earth is also used by some people as an external pour-on for horses. It wouldn't be very long-lasting, but might inhibit the insects that walk through it.Natural DE also makes a very effective natural insecticide. The insecticidal quality of DE is due to the razor sharp edges of the diatom remains. When DE comes contact with the insects, the sharp edges lacerate the bugs' waxy exoskeleton and then the powdery DE absorbs the body fluids causing death from dehydration. Said more simply,DE kills insects by drying then up.

DIATOMS ROLLING COMPOUND provides effective, broad- spectrum and external protection against parasites when laid in a rolling pit because animals can freely roll and kick around in the product. DIATOMS ROLLING COMPOUND is a natural product and therefore does not build up any resistance in the resident parasite population.

Here are some of the common questions I get asked about natural diatomaceous earth:

Is DE dangerous to my pets, me or my family?

Since DE is dusty and abrasive, it can cause lung damage if breathed heavily. Remember, however, that breathing any dusty materials can be dangerous. DE will not hurt earthworms or beneficial soil microorganisms. DE is one of the few pesticides in the world classified as non-toxic.

How much DE should I feed my animals?

Some of the feeding rations suggested by suppliers and users include: 1-2% by weight of DE in ground, dry feed. 5% by weight in stored grain. 50g to 100g (1/2 cup to one cup, I use 50g with great success) daily ration for horses, one tablespoon per day for large dogs (over 55 lb.),one teaspoon per day for small dogs and cats

For Chickens you can add DE to their grain and it helps keep the internal parasites at bay, and also helps to introduce calcium into their diet and improve egg strength.  If you add the Rolling mix into their pens/dust baths, they learn to roll in it and the mites that they often have in their feathers are reduced.

Fleas on dogs and cats...dust the tummies (not the hair on their backs as it becomes dry when powdered) and dust their bedding.  Repeat whenever you see fleas.  Ticks are also dried out and killed by the DE, so this is an added benefit!

Cattle, pigs, goats, sheep and other livestock animals benefit from having 2% to 4% diatoms added to their ration of feed or salt licks.

For more info go to www.diatoms.co.za

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