Manufacturers of colloidal silver products and equipment used to market colloidal silver as a dietary supplement. Silver isn't considered an essential element in the human body and there isn't any proof that it has any function in the body. The concentration of silver in colloidal silver varies greatly in products, which is dangerous for consumers because colloidal silver is a potentially dangerous supplement.
Identification
Colloidal silver consists of a liquid that has small particles of silver suspended in it. To make colloidal silver, according to Potters for Peace, a bar of silver is inserted into water. A positive electrical charge is then introduced into the water. This releases small silver particles into the water with a positive charge, which is colloidal silver.
Types
Colloidal silver is most widely available as an oral supplement, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, it is also available in a spray-on formula, a formula that can injected and a formula available as an ointment. The type of colloidal silver needed is dependent upon the condition that needs to be treated.
Side Effects
Several side effects are possible for someone using colloidal silver. Argyria is one possible side effect. A person with this condition is sometimes said to have Blue Man's Syndrome because the skin, nails, mucous membranes, gums and some internal organs turn a blue-silver color. The Mayo Clinic reports other possible side effects include kidney damage, seizures, neurological disorders and skin irritation. Headaches, fatigue and gastrointestinal upset may also occur. A darkening of the skin when exposed to sunlight may occur because silver can increase melanin production, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Colloidal silver is also linked to birth defects if the supplement is taken during pregnancy.
Theories
Colloidal silver is marketed to treat or cure several diseases, including include shingles, herpes, cancer, AIDS, prostatis, fungal infections, bacterial infections, syphilis and diabetes. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that these claims are unproven. Additionally, because the claims are unfounded, the manufacturers make these claims without FDA approval.
Considerations
The FDA hasn't approved any oral forms of colloidal silver for over-the-counter or prescription use. However, it has approved limited topical use, such as use in bandages, for severe burns, and to treat conjunctivitis in newborns. These uses should occur under the supervision of a medical professional.
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