CommentsDisplaying humanbean's 10 most recent comments.

• ‘Anguish’: US Grapples With Bedbugs as EPA Limits Options

  August 31, 2010 at 5:53am

  I am surprised no mention has been made of diatomaceous earth (DE) (…consisting of or containing diatoms or their fossil remains) as a means to eradicate these (or any) pests. This is a physical rather than chemical defense. It is not harmful to humans as long as you use pure DE and not a compound mixed with chemicals – the sharp edges of the microscopic fossil bits are too small to cause any damage to humans.
  If DE is sprinkled in and around the infested area, the powdery substance clings to the bodies of the pests and any of it that might be ingested does the same from the inside and causes micro-cuts in their soft tissue that causes them to individually bleed out and die. Even if only a portion of the pests have it clinging to them, they will nevertheless pass it to others in the population as they “socialize and mingle” expanding the effect amongst the rest.
  A bit slower than a blast of chemicals – it takes perhaps a week or even a few weeks for full effect, but bugs are not likely to build up a resistance to micro-razor blades and safe for humans and pets. Perhaps it is not advertised much because it is cheap, plentiful, and does not require an EPA-certified professional to apply. Look it up and see for yourself.