An alternative treatment to aid healing, silver has been used medically since ancient times. Used to treat wounds, it was thought to have antibacterial qualities, as well as antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral uses.
Praised by natural healthcare practitioners for its benefits, colloidal silver is the latest in a line of products. But is there any truth in these claims, or is it another empty promise designed to make money? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is Colloidal Silver?
Colloidal silver is often hailed as a modern-day cure-all when it comes to helping the body heal itself. It is a liquid made up of demineralized water containing tiny particles of silver. The application can be topical, as well as injected (uncommon) or taken in an oral dose. Silver can disrupt the growth of bacteria in the cell, see more information on this at the colloidal silver learning center.
Science vs Results
In 1999, the FDA stated that no colloidal silver products were safe or effective, and several suppliers faced lawsuits for false claims. After this, colloidal silver products were removed from pharmacies and rebranded as dietary supplements, or homeopathic remedies, and moved into health shops. Regardless of FDA approval, the products are still used and, in most cases, safely.
Scientific proof of Colloidal silver supplements is – like many alternate treatments – outweighed by user satisfaction. Whether it is a placebo effect or not, most of those who use colloidal treatments report improvement in that which they are trying to treat.
Oral Uses
You can take colloidal silver liquid orally to boost the immune system, aiding the body’s defense against colds and flu. It has also been used to treat
- digestive ailments
- Candida overgrowth
- stomach and mouth ulcers
- chronic fatigue
Be aware that like many alternate medications there can be interactions with other medications. It is always better to consult your Dr if you take any chronic medication.
Topical Uses
In topical form, colloidal silver can assist with speeding up the healing of cuts, burns, and grazes, as well as treating the following
- relief from various burns
- insect stings and bites
- sunburn
- acne
Topical use is the safest way to use colloidal silver. You can buy it in various forms such as sprays or gel. Alternatively, you can use the normal liquid solution on your skin – useful to wipe infected eyes or drop it easily down ears.
Treatment of Animals
Colloidal silver is very popular when it comes to treating various pet ailments as well. It can be used to treat anything from allergies to eye and ear infections, the same as with humans. Because it is liquid and tasteless, it is relatively easy to administer to pets.
The Silver Question
Even seeing the benefits of colloidal silver, you may feel unsure about its effectiveness and safety. While there may not be clinical proof to support the larger claims such as curing HIV, it does not mean that there are not benefits to a product.
As with all medications, it is always best to chat to your Dr before trying anything new, especially if you are on long-term medication. If you would like more articles like this, browse through our health section.
