One product at the Co-op that has is Lumino diatomaceous earth (DE). It is of special interest to all pet owners. DE is a non-toxic, environmentally-friendly cure for fleas and tick infestation. DE is a powder that’s made from the fossilized remains of algae cells found in fresh and salt water. Lumino DE is organic and food grade.
Recent DE studies have shown the efficacy in the reduction and elimination of fleas. DE is simply massaged directly on dogs, cats, and horses, as well as sprinkled onto the domestic environment. When the fleas or ticks come in contact with the DE powder, it simple dehydrates the pests and they die within 48 hours. The best part is that DE is the cheapest flea treatment you’ll find. A little goes a long way. The insects cannot develop an intolerance to it because it is not a poison.
It should be noted that DE cannot pierce the flea egg sac, so It must be reapplied to catch all new hatchlings. For successful eradication of fleas it’s also important to apply DE to both indoor and outdoor pet areas at the same time.
DE has other uses as well. In the garden it is an effective insecticide. Just keep it away from plant flowers so that bees can pollinate. DE is also ideal for keeping your chickens and hens happy. Sprinkle it in the coop floor or nesting areas. DE is said to be safe for animals and people to ingest and the manufacturer claims that DE is capable of eliminating internal parasites as well.
Lumino DE is sold in four different sizes, 9oz., 1.5lb., 4lb., and 8lb.
— By Adrian Carr, Co-op Newsletter Editor