Other compounds

Diatomaceous earth

Also called: DE

Powdered fossil algae.

Why people take it
Detox, cholesterol.
What the evidence says
Little evidence.
How it is usually taken
Food-grade only; benefits unproven.
Be careful
Breathing the dust harms the lungs.
Medicines it can interact with
May bind medicines taken at the same time.

Other other compounds

Alpha-lipoic acidResveratrolQuercetinPterostilbeneNMNSpermidineFisetinPQQSulforaphaneDIMDHEAMelatoninCaffeine and L-theanineCannabidiol (CBD)Hemp seedBee pollenRoyal jellyPropolisManuka honeyChlorophyll

Common questions

What is Diatomaceous earth?

Powdered fossil algae.

Why do people take Diatomaceous earth?

Detox, cholesterol.

Does Diatomaceous earth work?

Little evidence.

How much Diatomaceous earth do people take?

Food-grade only; benefits unproven.

Is Diatomaceous earth safe?

Breathing the dust harms the lungs.

Does Diatomaceous earth interact with medicines?

May bind medicines taken at the same time.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.