Colloidal Silver & Swine Flu

Before the advent of simple microbiology and modern chemistry, physicians and healers of all types used colloidal silver to treat many ailments. Science has since disproved the effectiveness of colloidal silver in treating any medical condition. In fact, it may cause more problems than it solves.

Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver is silver that is suspended in water or oil for oral consumption or application on the skin. It is the same kind of silver that is used in coins and metal works. Some companies and individuals have claimed that ingesting colloidal silver cures infections and treats conditions like the swine flu.

The Science of Silver Use

Contrary to some claims, silver is not an essential part of the human diet. It also has not been scientifically shown to be better than vaccines or antivirals in preventing or treating swine flu. This has not stopped the use of colloidal silver as an influenza remedy, however. Those who use colloidal silver must be warned of the potential side effects of its use, however.

Argyria

The most common side effect of the use of colloidal silver is a skin condition called argyria. Argyria is the darkening (or blue tinge) of the skin as silver deposits form under the skin. While it is not a serious health effect of colloidal silver use, it is irreversible. According to Dr. Brent A. Bauer of the Mayo Clinic, rare risks of continued colloidal silver use include seizures, kidney damage and skin irritation.