Collodial Silver Information

Colloidal silver, also known as tetrasilver tetroxide, is a solution made up of small flakes of the mineral silver suspended in liquid. A number of companies market colloidal silver as a natural treatment for some illnesses and diseases.

Reported Benefits

• Manufacturers of colloidal silver supplements claim that the chemicals contained in the mineral silver boost your immune system and help fight off infections, according to RxList.com. Colloidal silver is effective when used as an antiseptic for wounds.

Use

• Some of the advertised uses of colloidal silver include the treatment of ear infections, emphysema, bronchitis, fungal infections, Lyme disease, rosacea, sinus infections, stomach ulcers, yeast infections, chronic fatigue syndrome, AIDS, tuberculosis, food poisoning, and gum disease, reports RxList.com.

Expert Insight

• According to physician Brent A. Bauer of the Mayo Clinic, there is no scientific evidence or clinical data to support any of the various claims about colloidal silver. On October 6, 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning urging consumers to be cautious about products containing colloidal silver due to their potential risks.

Risks

• In some patients, colloidal silver causes a permanent condition known as argyria, which causes bluish skin and gums, cautions the FDA. Other risks associated with colloidal silver include seizures and kidney damage, asserts the Mayo Clinic.

Considerations

• If you are pregnant or nursing or taking antibiotics or thyroid medications, you should not take colloidal silver, warns RxList.