National Diatomaceous Earth Day

A person holding a bag of diatomaceous earth by a garden, wearing garden gloves and a sun hat.. — National diatomaceous earth day illustration

Welcome to the fascinating world of National Diatomaceous Earth Day! Prepare to dig deep into the history of this intriguing holiday and discover some fun facts along the way.

When is Diatomaceous Earth Day?

It's national diatomaceous earth day on the 31st August.

The Origins of National Diatomaceous Earth Day

Every year on August 31st, National Diatomaceous Earth Day celebrates the wonders of this natural substance. But what exactly is diatomaceous earth, you may ask? Well, it's a sedimentary rock that is made up of the fossilized remains of tiny, single-celled aquatic organisms called diatoms. These diatoms have been around for millions of years and have left behind a valuable resource!

The idea for this day originated online, where passionate diatomaceous earth enthusiasts connected and decided to create a holiday to raise awareness about the many uses and benefits of this remarkable substance. The first mention of National Diatomaceous Earth Day can be traced back to August 31, 2017, when it gained significant attention and sparked conversations across various social media platforms.

The Many Uses of Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth has a wide range of uses and benefits, making it a versatile substance worth celebrating. Some of its most common applications include:

Gardening: Diatomaceous earth is a natural pest control agent that helps combat garden invaders without the need for harmful chemicals.
Home Cleaning: It's an excellent abrasive cleaner that can remove stubborn stains from kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
Pool Maintenance: Diatomaceous earth is used as a filter aid in swimming pools to trap debris and impurities, ensuring crystal clear water.
Health Supplements: Some people use food-grade diatomaceous earth as a dietary supplement, claiming various health benefits. However, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your routine.

Did You Know?

Diatomaceous earth is often referred to as 'nature's insecticide' due to its effectiveness in killing and deterring pests. However, it's important to handle it responsibly and follow safety precautions to protect yourself and the environment!

History behind the term 'Diatomaceous Earth'

1836

Discovery of Diatomaceous Earth

In 1836, a German scientist named Peter Kasten discovered a white powdery substance while studying the sediments of freshwater lakes. He named this substance 'diatomaceous earth' due to its abundance of diatom fossils. Diatoms are single-celled algae that leave behind intricate silica shells when they die.

1861

Commercial Use Begins

In 1861, a British naturalist named Thomas Huxley recognized the potential commercial value of diatomaceous earth. He started promoting its use as an abrasive and as an insecticide in the horticulture industry. This led to the beginning of commercial production and its widespread use in various applications.

1902

Industrial Filtering and Processing

By 1902, diatomaceous earth became widely used in industrial applications, especially for filtration. Its unique structure with countless microscopic pores makes it an excellent material for filtering liquids and gases. Additionally, it was used in the production of dynamite, as a stabilizer in nitroglycerin.

1960s

Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth

In the 1960s, diatomaceous earth gained popularity as a food-grade product. It was recognized for its ability to control pests in grain storage facilities without the need for harmful chemicals. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is also used as an anti-caking agent in many products, including powdered spices and coffee.

2000s

Health and Beauty Applications

Since the 2000s, diatomaceous earth has gained attention for its various health and beauty applications. It is used as an ingredient in toothpaste, skincare products, and even as a natural pesticide for pets. The fine particles of diatomaceous earth are believed to provide exfoliation and absorb excess oils, making it a popular choice in natural beauty products.

Did you know?

Did you know that diatomaceous earth is also used in some beauty and skincare products? It can help exfoliate dead skin cells and promote a healthy glow!