By Dr Jolly Kabirizi
It is a naturally occurring silicon-rich sedimentary rock made of fossilised remains of hard-shelled pant algae. It is a 100% organic and natural highly effective feed mineral supplement for livestock.
Diatomaceous contains 15 mineral trace elements such as silicon, calcium, sodium, magnesium, iron, and many other trace minerals.
Diatomaceous earth can be used as a pest prevention remedy, an additive to animal feeds, and as fertilisers.
When Diatomaceous earth is used as a regular feed supplement, the following observations were reported: improved health and body condition; improved production and reproduction; decreased infant mortality; reduced fly population; veterinary bills are significantly reduced and; increased household income. Diatomaceous earth works on both external and internal parasites, and it is not a poison.
Diatomaceous earth fed to animals passes through the digestive system and is present in the animal’s manure. This has a two-way direct impact on controlling flies and other insects:
(a) Flies that land on the stool will be affected in much the same way as internal parasites. The diatoms present in the stool will pierce the outer layer of the fly/insect which will result in its death and; (b) if a fly lands on the animal’s stool and lays eggs, the Diatomaceous earth in the stool will pierce the outer layer of the larvae which will result in its death.
Diatomaceous earth can be used to effectively control external common parasites like flies, ticks, and fleas by simply rubbing the product on the skin of the animal or applying it to the floor and/or ground where the animal sits or sleeps. When used as an animal feed supplement, food-grade diatomaceous earth controls manure odour.
