Colloidal silver is a suspension of microscopic particles of silver (between 1/10 to 1/1000 of a micron) suspended in water or, less commonly, a gel. The particles remain suspended in the liquid and eventually settle to the bottom of the liquid. A quick shake will disperse the particles again. It is a traditional remedy that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health problems. With specialist retailers like Colloidal Earth shipping the product everywhere around the world, we decided to look into it’s rising popularity.
There are claims that it does not work at all and that it can pose risks. However, the people who have used it swear by it. So who is right, who is wrong? Below we discuss some of the claimed health benefits with reference to some academic journals and research.
What are the Colloidal Silver Benefits?
Colloidal silver is generally taken orally but it can be applied to the skin or sprayed.
Anti-inflammatory
Dressings containing colloidal silver have been found to reduce inflammation in the wounds. An article published in the Journal of Inflammation in 2010 says that in a study involving animals, the use of colloidal silver reduced skin redness and swelling and improved the development of epithelial cells around wounds. It is, therefore, a potential remedy for inflammatory conditions of the bowels and the lungs.
Wound Healing
In ancient times, and now, colloidal silver has been used in wound dressings and creams and has been used successfully in skin grafts, burn wounds, venous leg ulcers, bedsores, diabetic ulcers, and necrotizing fasciitis. It works by exerting its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In a 2008 study in Iran, an ointment containing colloidal silver reduced inflammation and sped up the regrowth of skin in burn wounds compared to placebo. In fact, colloidal silver has been documented to kill over 650 fungi, bacteria, parasites and molds that can cause diseases within 72 hours. Because of its antimicrobial properties, it is being used more and more for wound management.
Kills Bacteria and Parasites
Colloidal silver has antimicrobe properties, a fact that was known in ancient times at least 1,200 years ago. In the ancient days in Egypt, the Middle East, and India, it was used by royalty households to keep water and other fluids fresh by killing microbes. In modern times it has been recognized as an antimicrobial by clinicians for more than 100 years. It is known to kill malaria parasites in the blood and the deadly drug-resistant MRSA pathogen that causes life-threatening infections. No side effects were reported.
One huge advantage that colloidal silver has over antibiotics is that it can be used without creating any resistance in the bacteria.
Scientists have now found that it works by destroying the cell walls of cultured bacteria leading to bacterial cell death.
Allergy and Asthma Relief
Studies have found that hidden infections may be the cause of respiratory inflammation linked to common allergies and asthma. That could be the reason why colloidal silver has had excellent results for airborne allergy sufferers.
Anti-fungal Properties
Colloidal silver has been found to have anti-fungal effects against some strains of fungi. Some people and some studies have found that it can kill fungi in the mouth and it can be used to treat Candida infections. Other people use it to kill the fungus that causes dandruff. It is a potential remedy for athlete’s foot.
Anti-viral Properties
Colloidal silver is known to kill and eradicate the influenza virus, the smallpox virus and to prevent HIV from attaching to host cells. It is known to prevent infections and viruses such as hepatitis B. It is also used to treat and prevent flu and the common cold. Taking small amounts daily can boost the immune system and prevent frequent colds and flu. A study involving 100 children up to 12 years old, with nasal congestion and the common cold, treated half of them with saline solution and the other half with a solution of silver and beta-glucan. Both groups benefited, but 90% of the silver group completely recovered.
Treats Bronchitis and Pneumonia
When taken orally, colloidal silver can fight bronchitis and pneumonia.
Treats Skin Problems
When applied to the skin, it can reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis and eczema.
Cancer Treatment
Colloidal silver has been used to treat oral cancer and some alternative medicine doctors use it as part of their cancer treatment. In lab cultures, it caused the death of breast cancer cells.
Boosting the Immune System
Colloidal silver has been used for centuries to boost the immune system. It works partly through its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties which kill pathogens in the body including the antibiotic-resistant ones. It also works by reducing inflammation and possibly in other unknown ways.
Colloidal Silver Supplements
Colloidal silver has so many health benefits that it should be considered by many people as a daily supplement to boost the immune system and help to alleviate many health problems. It should also be available all the time to treat wounds, skin problems, colds, and flu.
