What is colloidal silver?
For people who have never heard of colloidal silver, it is a liquid, odorless and colorless solution. It is composed of water, ions and other particles of colloidal silver. These particles are suspended in water, because it is in this colloidal form that it has better bioavailability.
Colloidal silver microparticles are tiny in size, less than a nanometer, and are available in large quantities. They are thus able to cross the membranes surrounding bacterial cells without obstacle to neutralize their toxicity.
History and traditional use of colloidal silver
Colloidal silver has been recognized for its germicidal and bactericidal properties since ancient times. It was often used by the Greeks, Persians and Romans for the preservation of foodstuffs or the manufacture of kitchen and table utensils. Although at that time the chemical and biological mechanisms behind its beneficial effects were not well understood, its benefits were still observed on human health.
For example, health money was used to treat the wounded during the First World War before being replaced by more suitable medicines.
Given the increase in the number of multidrug-resistant bacteria today, the use of colloidal silver is returning as a preventive and curative measure in the United States. Some hospitals use it, for example, to cover surfaces exposed to contamination. Space shuttles also use silver colloid for water treatment.
What are the potential benefits of colloidal silver?
One of the main properties of colloidal silver is its antiseptic activity. It has the ability to kill bacteria and other microorganisms and can therefore be used for the treatment of several health problems. These include skin infections, eye infections and respiratory infections. This solution can also be used to disinfect water and other liquids.
Among the benefits of colloidal silver, we can also mention its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Recent studies have shown that this fluid is able to kill Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterium that can cause serious infections. According to this study, health money could therefore be useful for the prevention and treatment of bacterial infections.
This liquid would also have anti-inflammatory properties It has indeed been used for centuries for its healing properties. Scientific studies have shown more recently that it can also be useful for people suffering from inflammatory pain. Colloidal silver can indeed reduce inflammation and swelling related to diseases like rheumatism and arthritis. It can also help reduce pain and improve joint mobility.
Other studies have shown recently that health money can also be used to boost the action of antibiotics. This is because when used with antibiotics, colloidal silver can help reduce the time it takes to heal a bacterial infection. It also reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.
Some precautions and recommendations for use
Currently, only the external use of colloidal silver is allowed. Its oral use is controversial in the ranks of scientists. External use of this solution is permitted in the following cases:
- Skin problems (apply directly to the skin);
- Nose and throat problems (use as a spray);
- Vaginal infections (topical application);
- Septic diseases of the mouth (pyorrhea, tonsillitis, canker sores) and any other inflammations of the oral cavity (use it as a gargle);
- Eye pain (put 1 drop in each eye);
- Ear pain (put a few drops in the ears).
It is possible to experience side effects after using colloidal silver, but these are usually related to an overdose; for example 10 times the recommended dose for several months. For pregnant and lactating women, it is advisable to consult their doctor before using this product.
Weighing the pros and cons of colloidal silver
We must note that in some cases the use of colloidal silver can represent a health hazard. According to a Mayo Clinic study, this can cause drug interactions that could be dangerous; Especially with drugs like quinolones, penicillamine, tetracycline and thyroxine. The interaction can significantly reduce the effectiveness of these drugs.
It is therefore important to keep in mind that the benefits of colloidal silver do not outweigh its health risks. Therefore, even if studies on the subject are contradictory, the best thing to do is to limit the use of colloidal silver only to external purposes.