Germanium is a trace mineral that is not considered essential for human health. Organic germanium appears in some foods, such as garlic, broccoli, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes and celery, according to Phyllis Balch, C.N.C., author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Inorganic germanium is mined from soil and is commonly used in the production of semiconductors. Germanium is also marketed for health uses.
Talk to your physician before taking any supplement containing germanium.
Immune System Enhancement
Proponents of germanium claim that this trace mineral may help boost immune system function, according to the American Cancer Society. Germanium is purported to increase the production of a certain type of white blood cells, called natural killer cells, that attack germs in your body to prevent infection and disease.
Cellular Oxygenation
Germanium is purported to increase the supply of oxygen to bone, muscle and organ cells, according to Balch. Improved cellular oxygenation may enhance tissue repair and promote optimal health. Increased oxygen supply may also inhibit the growth of cancerous and noncancerous tumors.
Other Common Uses
Proponents recommend germanium for numerous other uses. It is purported to stimulate the production of interferon, a substance that may help fight the formation of cancer cells, according to the American Cancer Society. Supporters also claim that germanium may help treat fatigue, diabetes, neuropathy, high blood pressure and liver cirrhosis.
Considerations
There is no evidence to support the link between germanium consumption and interferon production or any other health benefit, according to the American Cancer Society. Both organic and inorganic germanium may be toxic to your body -- this trace mineral is linked to kidney failure and death and may cause other symptoms such as decreased appetite, weight loss, anemia, skin rashes and nausea. However, the small amounts of organic germanium found in food sources are unlikely to cause toxic effects.
There is no official daily intake recommendation for germanium. Also, there is no dosage standardization for supplements containing this trace mineral.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- American Cancer Society: Germanium; November 2008
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