Colloidal Silver Benefits: A Science-Backed Guide
By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Jun 11, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Jun 11, 2024Table of Contents
Colloidal silver is often talked about for its potential health benefits and germ-fighting properties. It’s just tiny silver bits suspended in a liquid. It’s been used as natural medicine for centuries. In this article, we will delve into what science says about its benefits and risks. We’ll also look at how it’s used daily, and we’ll also discuss about safety measures. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.
Silver has been a germ-fighter for ages. Greeks and Romans also used it. They used silver nitrate to manage wounds, and even as drinking cups to keep water clean. In modern times, things like silver sulfadiazine are put on burn wounds to fight germs. So, silver has always had a place in health care.
Colloidal silver today is made by suspending tiny silver bits in a liquid. They can vary in size, but sometimes they’re very tiny. These are called nanoparticles, they’re less than 100 nanometers in diameter. People think that these nanoparticles are better germ fighters, thanks to their larger surface area.
Many people say that colloidal silver has health benefits. However, these claims are up for debate. Some say it can aid recovery from many diseases, while others think that its impact is mostly based on personal stories.
It’s known that silver can fight bacterial infections. The thing is, we don’t fully know how it stops bacteria yet. We think it stops bacteria from growing and disrupts with their crucial cell processes. It’s been shown to stop various types of bacteria in laboratories tests and on wounds. But we need more studies to prove if it works like an antibacterial when taken by the oral route.
Bandages with silver have been studied a lot and are a well-known therapy to help wounds repair. They give a direct dose of silver to wounds, thereby fighting bacteria and speeding up repair. While using silver on the skin is FDA-approved and widely accepted, there is not enough evidence for the same benefits if you take colloidal silver by mouth.
Some studies suggest that tiny silver bits might have a way to ease inflammation, possibly by affecting certain cells and chemicals that cause inflammation. We don’t fully understand why though, so more research is needed to support these claims.
There’s limited evidence that colloidal silver may have antiviral property. Early research shows it might stop certain viruses from replicating. However, these studies have not been done on humans.
Some studies have explored that silver particles may impact your immune system. They might boost immune system activity or calm extreme inflammation. The exact ways aren’t known though, so more study is needed to prove these findings.
People don’t always agree on the health benefits of colloidal silver. But one thing can’t be denied: silver has made its way into a lot of products. They’re all meant to make the most of its germ-fighting property. Here are some of the ways colloidal silver is used.
Colloidal silver is often sold as a dietary supplement. Some say it supports the immune system, fights infections, and leads to general well-being. Yet, not enough evidence supports these claims. The FDA has said that oral colloidal silver products are “not generally recognised as safe or effective.”
Creams and gels with silver are often used for skin infections, wounds, and burns. They give a direct dose of silver to the skin, fighting germs and speeding up repair. The FDA says they’re safe and work well when used correctly.
Bandages with silver are often used in hospitals to manage different types of wounds. They help fight germs, lower the risk of infections, and help with repair. Using silver on wounds has a long history and is backed by science.
Coating medical devices with silver, like catheters and surgical tools, adds an extra layer of protection against germs. This use of silver is known for its effectiveness at lowering infection rates and improving patient results.
Even though people have been using colloidal silver for a long time, it’s important to know the potential risks. It’s also key to follow safety tips.
There is no set daily amount or suggested intake level for silver since human health doesn’t depend on it. But less is more. The EPA suggests taking no more than 5 micrograms of silver per kilogram of body weight each day to avoid bad side effects. Always pay close attention to product labels and discuss with a healthcare professional before using colloidal silver.
Colloidal silver products differ in the number of silver particles they contain. Different types also have various sizes of particles and dosing advice. Picking a trusted product that follows safety standards and FDA rules is key. Always talk to your healthcare professional before trying a new colloidal silver product.
While people may praise colloidal silver and its supposed health benefits, some risks and side effects should not be overlooked.
Argyria is a rare but permanent condition. It turns skin, eyes, and even organs blue-gray. This can happen if you take too much colloidal silver over time or apply it to broken skin.
Colloidal silver could disrupt with how certain drugs work, such as thyroid medicines and antibiotics. Always let your healthcare professional know about all the medicines you’re taking before starting any new supplement, including colloidal silver.
Some people may be allergic to silver, which can cause issues like skin rashes or trouble breathing. If you think you’re having an allergic reaction, stop using the product at once and reach out to your healthcare professional.
If you use colloidal silver for a long time, it might stop your body from absorbing some nutrients like selenium and zinc. This might lead to nutrient deficiencies and other health problems.
Considering the rules around colloidal silver is key to making smart choices about its use and to stay on the safe side.
Recall that the FDA ruled colloidal silver products as “not generally recognised as safe and effective”. Oral use of colloidal silver isn’t advised. It’s also important to pick FDA-approved products for uses like wound care.
Always discuss with a healthcare professional before starting any new management option or health regimen. This is especially necessary for colloidal silver due to the lack of clear benefits and possible risks.
Colloidal silver has been used for a long time as germ-fighting remedy. But whether or not it has other health benefits is still unsure. Some people call it a remedy, but the evidence for these claims is mixed and often based on personal stories. Moreover, using it the wrong way can bring risks such as argyria and disruption of other medicines. So, it’s important to be careful and discuss with a healthcare professional.
In the end, we need more studies to clearly know how much colloidal silver can truly help and to set guidelines for safe use. Until then, approach this remedy with caution and rely on tested therapies for different health issues.
Using colloidal silver for a long time can lead to argyria. It gives the skin, eyes, and organs a blue-grey colour. The FDA has ruled that colloidal silver products are “not generally recognised as safe and effective.”
The FDA doesn’t think taking colloidal silver by mouth is safe due to risks such as argyria and disrupting other medicines. Always discuss with your healthcare professional before trying any new supplement, including colloidal silver.
Ionic silver is actually dissolved silver ions, while colloidal silver is tiny silver particles in a liquid. Both types have been studied for their germ-fighting properties. But since colloidal silver has a larger surface area, it might work better.
When picking a colloidal silver product, make sure it meets safety rules and is FDA-approved, particularly for skin uses. It’s very important to consult with your healthcare professional before starting new supplements or therapies.
Some pet owners say they’ve used colloidal silver to manage various health issues in their pets, but not enough research exists about its safety and effectiveness in animals. Always discuss with a vet before trying out new management options for your pets.
Colloidal silver might disrupt with how well certain medicines work, such as thyroid medicines and antibiotics. Don’t forget to check with your healthcare professional about all the medicines you’re taking before starting any new supplement, like colloidal silver.
It’s best to store colloidal silver in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Make sure the container is sealed tight to keep air out.
Silver can cross the placenta in pregnant women, and we don’t know its long-term effects on a baby’s growth. Thus, women who’re pregnant or nursing shouldn’t use colloidal silver.
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