Colloidal Silver History

Colloidal silver, a liquid suspension of submicroscopic silver particles, has been used for generations as an alternative medical treatment for certain diseases. It was used by the ancient Egyptians, Romans and the Greeks. It is believed to have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties and thus, has been used as a disinfectant and germicide. Colloidal silver, however, waned in popularity following the introduction of antibiotics, but was later reintroduced when the problem of antibiotic resistance was discovered.

Past Uses

The ancient Romans, Greeks and Egyptians believed that silver had properties that can kill microorganisms such as bacteria and algae. They used silver to keep their water and milk fresh. Some even made water vessels or jugs out of silver. Those with water casks made of wood placed silver coins in the casks for preservation. They believed that the presence of silver in their water or milk containers could kill the microorganisms that build up inside. Colloidal silver was also used in treating wounds and as treatment against certain diseases. A silver leaf was even used during World War I to treat the wounds of injured soldiers.

Decline in Use

In the 1940's, Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin and its bacteria-killing properties. His discovery was boosted by two English scientists in 1941 when they developed a form of penicillin that could be used to fight bacterial infections in humans. It was then that antibiotics were born. It didn't take long for antibiotics to become famous and widely used. Many called penicillin the new wonder drug because of its positive effects against bacterial infections. With the popularity of antibiotics, the use of colloidal silver declined.

Resurgence in Use

Despite the effectiveness of antibiotics, it was soon discovered that antibiotics only worked against certain types of harmful bacteria and, as such, may not be an effective treatment for some diseases and infections. In addition, it was discovered that bacteria could develop resistance against antibiotics after long durations of use. This discovery made way for the resurgence of the use of colloidal silver in medicine.

Function

In 1970 Dr. Carl Moyer, of Washington University's Department of Surgery, made a discovery that silver diluted with water has the ability to kill invasive burn bacteria, permitting the burned area of the skin to heal. Since then, many products containing silver are advertised, claiming medicinal properties that can heal diseases and health problems, including cancer, diabetes, AIDS and tuberculosis.

Statistics and Warnings

The use and effectiveness of colloidal silver is not backed by scientific evidence, although many companies promote products as such. In the United States, products containing colloidal silver are legally sold and can be legally bought in drug stores and health food stores. However, as they are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it is illegal for manufacturers to make therapeutic claims and advertise the medical effectiveness of their products. Colloidal silver is not regarded by the FDA as an effective and safe treatment for any kind of health problem and is even believed to have serious side effects when taken in large amounts. One of the harmful side effects that can result from the intake of colloidal silver is argyria, a condition that negatively affects the skin, gums and nails.