Uses of Collodial Silver

The mineral colloidal silver has been touted as a "cure all" for quite an eclectic mix of purposes, though WebMd explains that silver has no known function or benefit in the body. Depending on the use, you can take it internally or apply it topically. In 1999, the Food and Drug Administration banned the sale of over-the-counter drugs that contained colloidal silver. You can still find colloidal silver products marketed as dietary supplements quite easily as the FDA does not have jurisdiction over these products. You should probably consider other remedies.

Evidence of Effectiveness

Physician and alternative medicine specialist Dr. Andrew Weil seconds the idea that the body has no need for silver and its reputation as a "cure all" for a wide range of maladies has no evidence to back it up. Its only potential use for medicinal purposes stems from silver's germicidal properties, though Weil explains this has limited applications for medical treatment. Mayo Clinic physician Brent A. Bauer says no sound research supporting the use of this supplement for any purpose has ever appeared in reputable medical publications.

Uses

Its reputation as antibacterial has made colloidal silver an alternative to antibiotics, though Dr. Andrew Weil says it does not work for this purpose. Others have touted it to address other types of infections, such as yeast and fungal infections, viral infections like HIV, parasitic infections and malaria. Colloidal silver manufacturers also claim it can address mineral deficiencies that compromise the immune system. Other suggested uses range far and wide, including but not limited to, lung problems; skin conditions; inflammation of the prostate, stomach, colon, nose and bladder; diabetes; allergies; gum disease and cancer.

Side Effects

Taking colloidal silver can result in a permanent bluish-grey hue to the skin and mucous membranes. This results from the silver depositing itself in the organs and usually shows up first in the gums. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center says use of this supplement has been linked to seizures and kidney damage. Other side effects include fatigue, stomach upset, headache and skin irritation. Topical applications for burns have been linked to a blood condition that can reduce the amount of oxygen delivered to the tissues throughout your body.

Considerations for Use

Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Fetal abnormalities affecting the face, neck and ear have been found in pregnant women with high levels of silver in their blood. Colloidal silver can interact with antibiotics, thyroid hormone and penicillamine, a medication used to treat Wilson's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Physicians Weil and Bauer do not consider colloidal silver supplements safe, and they suggest that you consider other treatments in place of this unproven supplement linked with potentially serious health problems.