Colloidal silver is an antiviral and antibiotic substance whose use is hotly debated among the alternative and conventional medical communities. In 1999, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a statement saying products that contain colloidal silver or silver salts are not safe or effective. Furthermore, its long-term use can lead to argyria, a condition that turns the skin gray from silver deposits. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine concurs that reviews of scientific literature on colloidal silver do not support its efficacy. Nevertheless, some alternative health care practitioners continue to advocate its use for a variety of conditions. Parents considering colloidal silver for their child should first have a conversation with their pediatrician.
Group B Streptoccus Prevention
Pregnant women who test positive for Group B streptococcus risk passing the condition along to their babies during birth. Most babies are unharmed by the condition, but it can be life-threatening to some. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends all mothers and babies receive a course of antibiotics during a vaginal birth. Midwifery Today mentions that some midwives prefer to treat with colloidal silver, while still other midwives are concerned about silver toxicity and prefer other naturopathic treatments.
Neonatal Herpes Prevention
Neonatal herpes is rare, but when it does occur, it is life-threatening. Midwifery Today advocates the use of colloidal silver in mothers who experience an outbreak of herpes simplex II just prior to birth. These mothers must be supervised by a naturopath as well as their birth professionals.
Immunity Boost
Renowned pediatrician Dr. Jay Gordon advocates the use of colloidal silver for boosting the immune systems of children during cold and flu season. Adults can divide their child's weight by 150 to ascertain the correct dosage.
Thrush Treatment
Thrush is a yeast infection that can be passed between breastfeeding mothers and their babies. Babies with thrush usually have white spots in their mouths and severe diaper rash. While Dr. Jay Gordon prefers to treat thrush with grapefruit seed extract, colloidal silver can be used.
References
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration: Over-the-Counter Drug Products Containing Colloidal Silver Ingredients or Silver Salts
- Colloidal Silver: Risk Without Benefit
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Colloidal Silver Products
- American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Group B Streptocccus and Pregnancy
- Midwifery Today: Group B Streptococcus
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