What Are the Health Benefits of Colloidal Silver?

Colloidal silver is widely available at natural health and health food stores, as a supplement and natural remedy. People have discovered its use as an antibiotic, antiviral and anti-fungal, and for other related purposes. It was used extensively for such purposes before the invention of prescription antibiotic drugs in the early 20th century, but it was then replaced by prescription medicines.

Antibacterial

Colloidal silver has been proven effective against a variety of bacterial infections. One study in the medical journal Lancet showed that even a 5 ppm solution could kill the bacteria responsible for typhoid. It was later found to be useful in fighting gonorrhea. Researchers studying a variety of colloidal metals found that mercury and silver were effective against many bacteria, and silver did not have the negative side effects that mercury did. Current estimates put the number of types of pathogen that colloidal silver can actively fight at over 600, including E. coli.

Antiviral

Colloidal silver's activity against viruses makes it an option for dealing with colds and flu for people who want to avoid conventional medications. In addition, it has shown some promise in a 2005 study for activity against HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Researchers found that silver can inhibit the virus from binding to host cells in vitro.

Anti-fungal & Anti-yeast

Another benefit of colloidal silver is its activity against yeast and fungi. It's used for treating ringworm in people and pets. It can be applied topically for this purpose and taken internally for additional systemic support. Silver solution is also helpful for candida, and is used internally for people with candidiasis. It may be beneficial when taken as an antibiotic, as it may prevent yeast infections that sometimes accompany their use. Another use for topical colloidal silver is fungal nail infections, which in many cases respond well to this treatment.

Antiseptic

Colloidal silver has general antiseptic properties that make it a good option for sterilizing wounds before other treatment or bandaging. Some people use it for gargling to reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath, and to improve gum health in people and pets. And pet owners use it as an eye wash and ear wash for cats and dogs.

Considerations

Because colloidal silver is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, it can kill beneficial bacteria as well as harmful bacteria. So it's a good idea to take probiotics throughout the duration of internal use of silver solution in order to ensure that beneficial gut flora are maintained.

Disclaimer

The information in this article should not be considered medical advice. The information in this article is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe or cure any ailment. Always check with your physician before taking any products or following any advice you have read on this site. Always consult your doctor before you start, stop or change anything that has been previously prescribed. Certain herbs and holistic remedies are unsuitable to take if you are pregnant or nursing and must always be cleared by your doctor before use.