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Silver Water Dosages & Uses

Colloidal silver, also known as "silver water," consists of very small silver particles suspended in water, according to Dr. Brent Bauer at the Mayo Clinic. Although silver water has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, the medical establishment acknowledges no studies that demonstrate its ability to treat diseases when taken internally. Silver water can cause serious health problems, especially in high doses.

  1. Silver in Medicine

    • Silver water contains tiny particles of the same substance found in jewelry and tableware.

      The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) reports that silver has been used in medicine for centuries but has been replaced by modern drugs that cause less side effects. Medical doctors still use silver-containing products for external applications such as warts, burns and eye infections in newborns, according to the NCCAM.

    Many Health Claims Lack Research

    • Dr. Bauer explains that despite marketing claims that silver water can boost the immune system, cure cancer, fight HIV/AIDS and prevent herpes; no studies have been published in reputable medical journals to support these claims. The Food and Drug Administration and Federal Trade Commission have taken action against companies for their health claims.

    Health Risks

    • Too much silver water can cause argyria, a permanent blue-gray discoloration of the skin.

      The most common health risk associated with taking silver water is argyria, a blue-gray discoloration of hair, skin, nails and even internal organs, according to Dr. Bauer at the Mayo Clinic. This condition is not reversible, even after the patient stops ingesting silver water. In addition, Dr. Bauer lists possible side effects as seizures, neurological problems, kidney problems and skin irritation.

    Safe Dosage

    • In their article "Silver Products for Medical Indications: Risk-Benefit Assessment," Dr. Fung and Dr. Bowen recommend a maximum dosage of 5mcg silver per kg of body weight per person each day--about 1 liter of 10ppm silver water per month for a 150-lb. person.

    Possible Drug Interactions

    • SIlver water can interact with some anitbiotics and thyroid medication.

      According to Dr. Bauer, silver water could interact with certain antibiotics and thyroid medications. These include penicillamine, quinolones, tetracycline and thyroxine medications.

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