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Diatomaceous Earth for Scabies: Natural Relief Guide

| Modified on Oct 02, 2025
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Diatomaceous Earth for Scabies.

Dealing with the intense itching and frustration of scabies? Many are turning to natural solutions to complement conventional treatments. One such remedy gaining popularity is Diatomaceous Earth (DE).

This fine, natural powder, made from fossilized algae, is known for its ability to physically dehydrate tiny pests. When used correctly, food-grade diatomaceous earth can be a valuable tool in your fight against scabies mites, both on your skin and in your home environment.

What is Diatomaceous Earth (DE)?

Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white or off-white powder. It's composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of hard-shelled algae.

The key here is "food-grade." This type of DE is processed for purity and is safe for internal and external use around humans and pets, unlike pool-grade DE which is chemically treated and toxic.

How Does Diatomaceous Earth Fight Scabies Mites?

DE isn't a chemical pesticide; it works through a unique physical action against mites and other insects:

  • Dehydration: The microscopic, razor-sharp edges of DE particles scratch the waxy outer layer (exoskeleton) of mites.
  • Absorption: These scratches allow the DE to absorb vital oils and moisture from the mite's body.
  • Physical Damage: This leads to rapid dehydration and death for the mites.
  • Long-Lasting: Unlike sprays that quickly lose potency, dry DE remains effective as long as it's present.

How to Use Diatomaceous Earth for Scabies Safely

Using DE effectively involves targeting both the mites on the skin and those in your environment. Always ensure you are using 100% food-grade diatomaceous earth.

1. For Skin Application (External Use Only)

This method aims to directly target mites on the surface of your skin.

  • Light Dusting: Gently dust a very thin layer of DE over affected skin areas, avoiding eyes and mucous membranes.
  • Application Frequency: Apply once or twice daily.
  • Duration: Leave on for several hours or overnight, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and a mild, gentle soap.
  • Moisturize: DE can be very drying. Always follow up with a good moisturizer after washing it off.

Pro Tip: For those with sensitive or dry skin, try mixing DE with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil to create a paste. This can reduce dryness while still keeping the DE in contact with mites.

2. For Your Home Environment

Eliminating mites from your living spaces is crucial to prevent re-infestation.

  • Target Areas: Sprinkle a light, even layer of DE on bedding, mattresses, carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and pet bedding.
  • Settling Time: Allow the DE to sit for at least 6-12 hours (or longer, if possible).
  • Vacuum Thoroughly: Use a strong vacuum cleaner to remove all traces of the powder. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately outside your home.
  • Repeat: Perform this environmental treatment 2-3 times per week, especially during an active outbreak.

3. For Clothing and Linens

Ensuring your laundry is mite-free is a vital step.

  • Hot Wash: Wash all clothing, towels, and sheets daily in hot water (at least 130°F / 54°C).
  • High Heat Dry: Dry items on the highest heat setting possible for at least 20 minutes.
  • Optional Dusting: If concerned about re-infestation, you can lightly dust clean, dry items with DE before storage, shaking it off thoroughly before wearing/using.

Important Safety Considerations

While food-grade DE is generally safe, proper handling is key to avoiding irritation.

  • Inhalation Risk: ⚠️ Avoid breathing in DE dust. It can irritate lungs and airways. Always apply in well-ventilated areas, or consider wearing a mask.
  • Skin Dryness: DE is a desiccant, meaning it absorbs moisture. It can cause skin dryness or mild irritation. Moisturize after use and discontinue if severe redness or discomfort occurs.
  • Eye Contact: Avoid getting DE in your eyes, as it can cause irritation.
  • Food-Grade ONLY: 🚫 Never use pool-grade DE for any purpose related to people or pets. It is chemically altered and harmful.

⚠️ Medical Advice Disclaimer

Diatomaceous earth can be a supportive remedy for scabies mite control, but it is not a standalone cure for a human scabies infection. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment, especially for severe or persistent infestations.

Your Scabies & DE Questions Answered

1. How quickly does DE work for scabies?
You might notice reduced itching within the first week as environmental mites are eliminated. Consistent application on skin and in the home over 2-3 weeks should lead to gradual improvement. Individual results vary.
2. Can I use DE internally for scabies?
While food-grade DE is sometimes consumed for other health reasons, there is no scientific evidence to support its internal use for treating scabies. Stick to external and environmental applications for mite control.
3. Where can I buy food-grade Diatomaceous Earth?
Look for 100% food-grade diatomaceous earth at health food stores, farm supply stores, garden centers, or reputable online retailers like Amazon.

Share Your Experience!

Have you used diatomaceous earth to help with scabies or mite control? We'd love to hear your insights! Share your tips, successes, or questions in the comments below to help our community.

Related Links:

Natural Remedies for Scabies: 8 Options for Itch Relief

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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7 User Reviews

5 star (7) 
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Posted by RB (Somewhere in Europe) on 09/26/2025 90 posts
 ★★★★★

For me, it was Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth that worked like charm.

For ease of application and even distribution I mixed it with a natural oil, like Oregano oil, Tea Tree oil, or Rosemary oil.

Applied this mix twice a day, for 4 days, stopped eating sweet fruits, slept at least 8 hours per night, and I cold tell my skin was healing real fast, and without any scars, or discoloration.

Treatment has been easy and cheap; so far it has cost me only a dollar.

However, what has really-really helped me was the right diagnosis. You need to spend at least 15 minutes on the Net looking at some pictures that dermatologists made and uploaded to the Internet.

Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Anna (KY) on 04/03/2023
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I suffered with a terrible case of scabies for six weeks many years ago. After 3 dermatologists and many useless creams, I found a recommendation for food-grade DE. I cautiously applied it to my skin, careful not to inhale any dust which can be harmful to lungs and keep away from eyes. I went to sleep, wearing only the DE, on a sheet laid out on the floor (I was that exhausted from the laundry, cleaning bedding, and constantly cleaning the bed itself.) To my enormous relief, I woke up without the itching I had worried would literally drive me insane if it continued to intensify. In eight hours, I was cured, and no more scabies. Just a bit more cleaning to do, but with joy!

Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Gary (Kitchener On) on 03/06/2023
 ★★★★★

I got rid of my battle with scabies and they never returned. I put Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth all over my body at bedtime. I did it 3 nights and they never came back. Make sure it is Food Grade.

Best of luck

Gary

Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Darlene (Oregon, Usa) on 10/12/2014
 ★★★★★

On the topic of scabies, Diatomaceous earth works wonderful. Use one cupful in bath water and soak for while covering all parts of body. When you get out of bath just pat dry to leave as much DM on the body as possible. Use the food grade. It can also be used for internal parasites. I have used it for 6 yrs on my dogs, goats, mule, chickens and even taken it myself. It works to get rid of mites on chickens and scale mites on their feet . Research this for more info.

Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Someone Who Cares (Los Angeles) on 09/07/2013
 ★★★★★

Diatomaceous Earth will work however, it does not take only a day to work. I did the same sock trick, filled with DE and beat it around the place. I sprinkled it into the carpet and beat it in using a flip flop. It cuts and dehydrates the bugs however it can take days before they die and may not reach unhatched eggs. For the eggs I reccamend a combo of clove and neem oil. The clove will melt the eggs and been Will inactivated eggs and intermediate larva if not destroyed by the clove oil.

After mixing both oils in lotion, let dry. Then when completely dry apply the DE and rub it in. During this time times when you shower, you should be scrubbing with sulfur soap and allowing it to remain unwashed off on the skin, for a min of ten min. Do not skimp on the time. Ten full min or more then completely wash off. Grisi is the brand of the 10% sulfur soap.

Also most importantly, many come here looking for advise and may assume they have a condition when they may not. I've seen people who did not know they had bed bugs complained to their derm about scabies or other single infections. Keep in mind there are a variety of mites also the have very different habits of existence. Some living in the skin, in the environment and longer than expected without food supply. See a doc if you can. If not, do your self a favor and research and get feedback from a trusted friend or loved one.

Replied by Bex
(Fort Dodge, IA)
07/10/2025

How long did you have scabies for? Do you think that's why it was a hassle trying to get rid of them? Or was someone else the source?

Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Sherri (Rockford, Il) on 08/17/2011
 ★★★★★

DE is great, the itching was horrible and got rid of my mites/scabies in a day, was wonderful! Can't express enough how amazing this stuff is for this and other health benefits. We take Incect Dust 100% DE found it at our local garden center. Just to list a few other things it helped us with... More energy, great poops, husband has hair growing in areas that were receeding, his hair does not look as grey, He no longer has a big belly, he has lost weight, no lower back, shoulder or knee pain, have not had other pains he was taking handfuls of ibuprofen for on a daily basis, no longer taking allergy med's, no more antacids and we eat spicey foods daily, skin and nails look better and grow fast! We do not have the morning smokers cough either. Give it a try, the itching will stop and you will be soooo relieved and you'll love the other benefits too:) We are currently taking 1 to 2 Tbs of this daily and have been for 4 months now, we mix it with V8 Splash (stir well) and drink it down in a shot, rinse glass with cold water and drink what remains in the cup.

Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Alice (Odessa, Texas) on 02/13/2009
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Diatomaceous cured my scabies : After being diagnosed w/scabies and given Permethrin, which made me very ill, I tried Neem,tea tree oil,kerocene! all kinds of things till I remembered I had Diatomaceous Earth DE fossil Shell Flour ( food grade ) in my house ,I used to use it on my cats for fleas until switching to a topical for less trouble.I decided to completely dust my enviroment and body w/ it to see if that worked! DE kills mites of all kinds by acting like ground glass inside them destroying their innards, but is safe to humans and pets, make sure you get the FOOD GRADE and not the one for pool filters which is dangerous! Get a large winter type sock with loose weave, fill it w/ the fossil flour and walk your house patting it, you will see it clouding and falling to the floor, use on furniture and any places you freguent often, like your PC. I dusted my comforter on both sides good, to keep from washing it all the time! Same for pillows although mine are in sealed garbage bags. Last try to keep yourself dusted from scalp to soles of feet for at least a week,a ll crawling sensations will disappear along with biting, from here on in I'm keeping my house dusted as the fine film blends in on carpet and furniture, in case of other types of mites. Neem is still a good shampoo additive, one dropper full to your handful of regular shampoo,well Good luck to all.

Replied by Helpplz
(Tempe, AZ)
06/23/2009

This sounds like what i wanna try. So it is totally harmless to rub all over yourself and sleep in it? How long should i leave it on? Can it be purchased at a farmers co op or the home depot? Are you fully cured? How much should i buy? Anyone else have sucesss with this?

Replied by Peggy Sue Chan
(South Houston, Texas, USA)
08/17/2009

To Helpplz: I buy mine at a feed store, 50 lbs for $21.00. It's real name is Diatomite Silica. You can buy it at nurseries and garden centers, too, but for far more expensive. We drink ours. I don't have hot flashes when I drink it. I took several tablespoons twice daily, and the next day the flashes quit. I vacationed in the Carribbean without air conditioning for two weeks, and the flashes still didn't happen.

I also quit having gluteal hamstring pulls--I have no idea why they quit the day after I began taking the silica. I'd had them for 5 years previously, as long as I'd been running. However, four months ago I changed my running form from heel strike to forefoot strike, and the hamstring pulls never recurred, even without my taking silica. Strange, but my knees and ankles quit hurting when I changed form, too.

When I quit taking silica, however, my hot flashes returned.

I can't tell what else silica did for me because I am not aware of having any other health problems.

Replied by Charlene
(Georgia (ga))
10/27/2016

I buy DE online, it's cheapest. You can also buy it in the stores locally like health food stores and feed stores. I also buy my DE at the Tractor Trailer Supply Store. They also sell horse paste that people use for scabies but don't tell them you're buying it for yourself. They sell other things there that will help kill your mites. I buy the grey animal type of DE, it's not refined. I use it for my environment and my dog and my body. Internally I use the whitish type which is refined and for human intake and externally. The animal type you can consume too and it's a better quality but it seriously tastes like dirt. I can't drink or eat it. Gross!



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