jeeperscreepers
"I heard that FOOD GRADE diatomaceous earth used to be used often by farmers as an addition to cattle or horse feed (just like honey was used for wounds before
Antibiotics came along in WW2), but was replaced by Big Pharmaceutical drugs."
No, it isn't. I've posted this before but I think it's worth posting again. This is my own equine vet's opinion on D.E.
"If this product were truly successful for
parasite control, I think that it would have widespread use in the livestock production industry, which is very sensitive to the issues of price and medication residues in meat. Ivermectin is still the most widely used dewormer despite the potential cost and residue avoidance advantages with D.E. In general, I would not rely exclusively on this product for
parasite control."
Farmers who raise livestock for meat are very conscious of the costs in doing so. If there was a more economical alternative, they would use it, provided it was as effective as pharmaceuticals. Farmers aren't stupid. ;)
Having said that, farmers most certainly do rely on honey for wound management. The problem with it, though, is during the warmer months and flies.
I use sugardine (a mixture of betadine and table
Sugar to make a thick paste) myself as it makes a good hoof packing to draw out thrush.
So while it may not hurt to use it, there is absolutely no evidence that it will help, either. :(