Can Colloidal Silver Cause Harm? Debunking the Myths

Colloidal silver is often touted for its antibacterial properties, especially when dealing with infections. However, as we will discuss in this article, there are significant potential risks associated with internal consumption or extensive use on the skin. Let's explore whether colloidal silver poses any harm and why it might not be the best choice for treating infections.

Internal Use and Risk of Harm

In my experience, taking colloidal silver during a bad chest infection did not lead to any improvement. This is partly because I was also consuming Kyolic garlic, which also failed to prevent or improve the infection. Thus, I concluded that colloidal silver is effective only when used externally and not internally.

While colloidal silver can act as a good external disinfectant, internal consumption is risky. One potential risk is the discoloration of the skin to a metallic gray, which might make you a “popular party guest”. However, this is an aesthetic issue rather than a severe health problem. More concerning is the potential for serious neurological damage, which can occur when colloidal silver is improperly made or taken in large quantities over a long period.

Silver Toxicity and Scientific Evidence

There is limited scientific evidence to support the safety of drinking colloidal silver or extensively using it in close contact with the human body, such as in hiking socks. Silver ions, while toxic, are normally eliminated in the stomach as insoluble and harmless silver chloride. This is why silver tablets are available globally for sterilizing drinking water.

However, the fact that silver is highly effective at sterilizing water does indicate that it is not totally harmless to living cells. In its colloidal form, there are additional aspects of potential toxicity that have not been thoroughly researched. Therefore, caution is advised, especially when considering prolonged or large-scale use.

Case Studies and Insights

One instance that highlights the risks of improperly made colloidal silver involves a 'blue guy' who was making his own solution. The silver in his solution was not properly broken down, leading to potential harm. This case underscores the importance of careful preparation and proper dosing.

Conclusion: Risks Outweigh Benefits

In summary, there is a general consensus that the risks of ingesting colloidal silver far outweigh its benefits in comparison to modern antibiotics. Almost all medications come with a balance of risks versus benefits, but in today’s world, the risks of using colloidal silver are particularly pronounced.

Antibiotic drugs have developed over time to offer much more effective and safer treatment options for internal microbial infections compared to metal-based compounds like silver. Therefore, unless there is a specific, understood benefit and proper medical supervision, colloidal silver should not be the preferred treatment for infections.