What Is the Health Value of Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver has been around for more than a hundred years. It comes in many different forms including soaps, ointments, liquid for skin treatment, liquid for internal use and pills. There are many potential health benefits of colloidal silver. It is used as an antimicrobial and antibacterial agent.

Soap

• Many health food stores and online sites sell colloidal silver soap. The health benefits of using the soap include antifungal activity and helping to stop skin fungi such as yeast and athlete's foot. Colloidal silver soap has also been shown to reduce the amount of bacteria on the skin.

Topical

• You can purchase colloidal silver in liquid or tincture form. My mother often uses this type of colloidal silver for minor cuts. Simply apply a small amount of the liquid to a Band-Aid and place it over the cut to reduce infection and aid the healing process. It has been shown to help with acne, as acne is sometimes related to bacterial growth. Applying a small amount of liquid colloidal silver to a wart and then applying a Band-Aid may result in disappearance of the wart.

Internal

• Colloidal Silver can also be purchased in liquid form for internal use. The health benefits claimed for the liquid form include reduction of pathogenic bacteria and internal yeast. It is suggested that colloidal silver can be used to get rid of intestinal worms.

Pills

• The pill form of colloidal silver commonly includes other ingredients, usually other minerals. The pills have the same benefits as the other forms, such as the ability to combat bacteria, fungus and worms. In pill form, the colloidal silver is introduced to the body through the stomach and intestines, whereas the liquid is partly absorbed in the mouth, entering the bloodstream directly.

Precaution

• Too much colloidal silver can harm the body. You should not take more than 100 micrograms a day, as the recommended daily dose is 25 to 100 micrograms. Silver accumulates in the body over time. Too much colloidal silver can result in a condition known as argyria, or a build up of silver which results in a gray or blue discoloration of the skin. The condition is not a serious health issue in itself, but it is not reversible. Rarely, excessive use of colloidal silver can lead to seizures and kidney damage. Before using any alternative product, be sure to contact your doctor to make sure the health benefits outweigh the risks.