Colloidal silver has been used since the Middle Ages in many areas of medicine and is still growing in popularity today as an alternative remedy for viruses, bacteria, fungi and numerous other ailments due to its antimicrobial effect . In alternative medicine , colloidal silver is credited with many positive properties , while reports are simultaneously circulating online claiming that taking it can turn people gray or blue. Supporters describe the effects of colloidal silver as diverse, but caution is advised, as it is not a cure-all and has been little researched to date.
Thanks to modern technology, it is now even possible to produce colloidal silver privately by electrolysis, dissolved in distilled or double-distilled water . But what lies behind the miracle remedy that is the forerunner of our modern antibiotics? In our blog post, we explain what colloidal silver is, when it is used, and how its effects work.
Contents
- What is Colloidal Silver?
- Colloidal silver: effects and side effects
- Possible side effects of silver water
- Colloidal silver: Use in the medical field
- Colloidal silver applications: External use
- Colloidal silver applications: Internal use
- Making colloidal silver with distilled water
- From distilled water to silver water - here's how
- FAQ - frequently asked questions
What is colloidal silver?
When colloidal silver is mentioned, it generally refers to a form of silver for use that is also known as “silver water” . This refers to very fine particles of nanosilver or liquid dispersions of sparingly soluble silver compounds.
The so-called silver colloids are the smallest particles before the atom that still possess their individual properties. These particles are up to 750 times smaller than a red blood cell.
They are not soluble and form a colloidal system together with distilled water, in which all the silver particles have the same electrical charge . Due to their tiny size, the particles can also reach difficult-to- access regions of our body when colloidal silver is used internally.
Colloidal systems are extremely important for life on our planet. For example, blood is also a colloidal system, although strictly speaking it is an emulsion (droplets in a liquid). Colloidal silver is a suspension (solid particles in a liquid).
The size of the silver particles - the colloid - depends on the production method . The particles can be mechanically ground down using colloid mills or obtained through electrolytic and chemical processes .
In short: Colloidal silver is electrically charged silver ions in water, which are generally 1 mm to 10 nm in size. The smaller the particles, the more effectively they can be absorbed by the body. Colloidal silver is a dispersion consisting of pure silver and water consists and free of minerals is.
Colloidal silver: effects and side effects
Silver has antibacterial properties and inactivates a wide range of bacteria, pathogens and viruses even in small quantities - some may still remember the old household trick of using a silver coin to keep a jug of milk fresh for longer.
For this reason, even high-ranking figures in all historical eras preferred silver dishes and cutlery. The effects of colloidal silver are diverse and include antimicrobial properties.
The use of colloidal silver extends to various areas, although the scientific evidence is often limited. The exact mechanism of action of colloidal silver is still being researched, with various studies and experiments having demonstrated an inhibitory effect on bacteria, parasites, viruses and fungi .
The tiny particles of colloidal silver penetrate even single-celled pests and interfere with their ability to absorb oxygen, while healthy cells remained untouched. Parasitic organisms such as worms are also said to be destroyed by corresponding treatment. Many practitioners of natural medicine therefore regard colloidal silver as a kind of natural antibiotic.
Furthermore, a connection was drawn between shortened wound-healing times and dressings treated with colloidal silver . However, it should be noted that such experiments were often conducted using artificial bacterial colonies rather than on the human body.
In Germany, due to the lack of further research, colloidal silver is currently approved neither as a medicinal product nor as a food supplement and is officially intended only for external use in the form of facial toners or creams.
Nevertheless, people worldwide swear by using colloidal silver as a medicine. Any consultation with the respective family doctor should always take place.
Possible side effects of silver water
Colloidal silver should always be used sparingly and in small doses at a low concentration. Otherwise, excessive silver intake can lead to a condition known as “argyria.” In this condition, tiny silver particles accumulate in the skin and internal organs, causing an irreversible blue discoloration , particularly of the eyes, face, hands, and arms.
Some case reports related to argyria also indicate additional side effects that may last for several days and are comparable to the side effects of antibiotic therapy :
- Neurological disorders such as sensitivity to smells or taste disturbances
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Nausea
- Skin irritation
If colloidal silver is used only for a short period and in small amounts , the occurrence of side effects is unlikely. Nevertheless, care should be taken to drink plenty of water during use. This can help prevent overdosing and any side effects.
Important! Taking colloidal silver is not recommended in the case of silver allergy, a existing pregnancy as well as while breastfeeding not recommended.
Colloidal silver: Use in the medical field
The use of colloidal silver is divided into external and internal use . In both areas of use, combating bacterial infections and inflammations is the primary focus. Colloidal silver is more widely used externally than internally.
While the product is often used externally as a quick remedy for burns, wounds, inflammations, or insect bites, no scientifically established health benefits are attributed to internal use.
Drinking colloidal silver is promoted by some as a remedy, but it is controversial and potentially risky. Therefore, colloidal silver should never serve as a substitute for medication , but should only be used as a supplement in consultation with an appropriate specialist.
Since silver water is said to have few side effects at low doses , the remedy is becoming increasingly popular in alternative medicine for alleviating everyday complaints.
Some uses of colloidal silver recommended by various health advisors include:
- regularly drinking small amounts to strengthen the immune system
- drinking small amounts of colloidal silver to strengthen the immune system
- to combat colds, flu, or bronchitis
- as ear drops for treating ear infections
- spraying it onto atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, boils, herpes, etc.
- spraying it onto burns to prevent infections and accelerate healing
- for fungal infections or itching in the genital area
- for treating insect bites
In addition to its traditional homeopathic use for colds, inflammation, sore throats, and infections, users also swear by its use for bad breath, allergies, or gum inflammation.
Nevertheless, one should always bear in mind that the effectiveness of colloidal silver for these applications has not been conclusively proven scientifically.
Colloidal silver applications: External use
Externally, colloidal silver is primarily used for treating skin conditions and in the form of cosmetic products such as creams, soaps, or lotions.
The antimicrobial effect of silver water is primarily used for acne, warts, and atopic dermatitis, but also for treating burns, insect bites, rashes, cuts, and other injuries.
Due to the limited data, the caring effect of colloidal silver remains questionable. This is based solely on user reports - there is no scientific basis.
Its effectiveness in supportive care for atopic skin conditions , on the other hand, has been investigated in small-scale studies and observational studies , which is why a range of dressings containing colloidal silver are now also available for antibacterial wound healing.
Colloidal silver applications: Internal use
While some studies have been conducted on external application and its effectiveness was partially confirmed , there is no scientific evidence whatsoever for the therapeutic success of ingesting colloidal silver.
The internal use of colloidal silver is primarily intended to stimulate cell growth and strengthen the immune system and have a detoxifying effect . Whether for neurodermatitis, Lyme disease, inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract or gums, colds, or even depression and allergies - silver water seems to be the miracle cure for a wide range of applications .
This blocks the bacteria's metabolism, ultimately causing them to die. Colloidal silver should only be drunk under medical supervision and with great caution, as its long-term effects have not been fully researched.
Colloidal silver can be used in various forms:
- as a rinse,
- Inhalation
- or simple drops are possible.
For gum or oral conditions, for example, the silver water is gargled; for inflammation of the nasal cavity and colds, it is used as a spray.
When using silver water internally, the dosage should always be monitored and the product should be taken with plenty of water . It should also be noted that taking colloidal silver should never replace a therapy, but merely complement it.
Usually, a small teaspoonful is taken daily - until corresponding relief of the symptoms has occurred. However, it should not be taken for longer than two weeks, or only for as long as agreed with an appropriate therapist .
Also note that you should not drink large quantities of colloidal silver.
Making colloidal silver with distilled water
Since colloidal silver loses its effectiveness over time, it is advisable to make it whenever it is needed. This can easily be done at home. All you need is single- or double-distilled water and a special generator with rods made of pure silver (over 99.99%).
In general, commercially available generators have two silver rods. The rods connected to the silver generator are immersed in heated, distilled water, where they begin releasing silver particles after just a few minutes.
The longer the generator remains switched on, the higher the concentration of colloidal silver. A concentration of 5 to 25 ppm (parts per million) is usually targeted. If tap water, mineral water or salt water is used instead of distilled water to produce colloidal silver, there is a risk of forming potentially harmful silver salts.
Although using distilled water requires a constant voltage of at least 24 volts and more time, the finished colloidal silver is of very high quality. If you would like to practice making silver water with distilled water yourself, you can purchase suitable distilled water and bidistilled water from our Medicalcorner24 online shop
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From distilled water to silver water - here's how
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkQuawiGWUw
Preparation: Thoroughly clean the glass container with distilled water to ensure that the quality of the colloidal silver is not impaired by impurities
Filling with water: Fill the glass container with distilled water. The amount depends on the desired quantity of colloidal silver.
Setting up the electrodes: Attach an alligator clip to the end of each silver rod or silver wire. Make sure that the silver rods do not come into contact with each other when immersed in the water.
Connection to the power source: Connect the free ends of the alligator clips to the power supply. Make sure that each clip is connected to one pole to form an electrical circuit.
Voltage adjustment: Set the power supply to a low voltage, ideally between 24 and 30 volts. Excessively high voltage can lead to the rapid release of silver particles, which may impair the quality of the colloidal silver.
Starting the process: Switch on the power supply. You should soon see small bubbles forming on the silver rods - a sign that the silver release process has begun.
Duration of electrolysis: The time required to produce a specific concentration of colloidal silver depends on the set current and the amount of water. A general rule of thumb is to let the process run for between 30 minutes and several hours, depending on the desired silver concentration.
Monitoring: Monitor the process and the color of the water. A slight yellow discoloration may indicate the formation of colloidal silver. If necessary, use a conductivity tester to check the concentration of silver in the water.
Ionic-Pulser electrolysis devices for producing colloidal silver at home
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Colloidal silver: Alternative treatment options
Many people swear by colloidal silver as a remedy. However, there are also other natural treatment methods that have a similar effect. These are usually purely plant-based, such as tea tree oil or echinacea. They also include natural products such as propolis and aloe vera. These methods are better known in Germany and have been researched more extensively than colloidal silver.
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Tea tree oil (extracted from the leaves of the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) and known for its strong antimicrobial properties) |
Very effective for skin problems High antimicrobial effect |
Suitable only for external use May cause skin irritation |
| May cause skin irritation Propolis (a natural product produced by bees. It is often referred to as "bee glue" and is used by bees to seal and sterilize their hive) |
Natural product Versatile antimicrobial effect |
Unpleasant taste Higher risk of allergies |
|
Echinacea (also known as coneflower, a genus of plants in the daisy family)
|
Helpful for colds Strengthens the immune system |
Allergic reactions possible Antimicrobial effect limited Usually only helps with prevention |
|
Aloe vera (a plant whose leaf gel is used for various purposes)
|
Promotes wound healing Generally well tolerated |
Antimicrobial effect limited May have a laxative effect when taken internally |
The choice of a suitable method should always be made based on the individual areas of application and taking personal tolerability into account.
It should be noted that colloidal silver is not approved as a medicinal product in Germany, while other methods, such as echinacea, have been studied more extensively.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
What is meant by silver water?
Colloidal silver, also known as “silver water,” is a natural substance, which was used before the development of modern anti-inflammatory and anti-infective agents such as antibiotics to to treat internal and external infections. Since, unlike synthetically or semi-synthetically produced active ingredients, silver water consists only of silver particles dissolved in distilled water consists, thanks to the biological composition to a an integral part of alternative medicine become. Silver water is currently not approved as a medicinal product in Germany, which is why the product is often sold as facial toner or purified water for technical purposes.
How dangerous is colloidal silver?
As a medicinal product, colloidal silver is largely unstudied clinically . It is therefore not possible to classify it completely as either dangerous or safe. It is known that silver can kill bacteria and viruses. However, increased intake can lead to health problems , since silver as a substance is not naturally present in the human body. In general, caution should always be exercised, especially when using it internally.
Due to the lack of scientifically recognized evidence - both regarding its effectiveness and potential side effects - the assessment of the product is based solely on users' reports of their experiences . Any side effects may of course also be attributed to contaminated or inferior products as well as improper use.
What does colloidal silver look like?
The color of colloidal water depends largely on the particle size of the silver particles . If the silver ions were obtained through electrolysis, they are so small that the silver water is usually completely clear and therefore visually indistinguishable from water. Colloids produced mechanically using mills are significantly larger. The particles may have different sizes , which can cause the solution to range in color from yellowish to brownish , depending on light refraction.
The color of colloidal silver therefore provides information about the manufacturing process. Quality characteristics can be inferred from the cloudiness - a high-quality product should always be clear and transparent because cloudiness indicates impurities.
What does ppm stand for?
Ppm is not a unit of weight, but a Unit designation for ratios of quantities. It stands for "parts per million" and describes how much elemental silver a solution contains, with 1 ppm corresponding to one part per million parts. As the duration of electrolysis increases, the silver particles grow in size, which leads to an increase in the ppm concentration.
10 ppm, 25 ppm, 50 ppm, or 100 ppm - which silver water should I use?
At first glance, the decision seems simple: A higher silver content per liter, expressed in more mg or higher ppm, suggests better quality. However, the reality is more complex. To increase the ppm values, electric current must be passed through silver rods for a longer period, which leads to greater dissolution of the precious metal. However, this produces not more, but larger silver particles. The decisive factor for the quality of colloidal silver is its total surface area, which at a A large number of small particles is greater than a few larger ones. The optimal particle density is usually found at concentrations of 10 to 25 ppm. During prolonged electrolysis, although the ppm values increase, the particles tend to cluster together and form larger aggregates.
Can colloidal silver be used for animals?
Colloidal silver can also be used on use on dogs, cats, horses, and farm animals, without any known problems or side effects being reported. It is often used in the form of drops for conditions such as conjunctivitis, ear infections, or open wounds. In addition, homemade creams based on colloidal silver are often used. Many pet owners and farmers also rely on this remedy for diseases affecting the mouth and gum inflammation.
Can colloidal silver be used daily?
Daily use of colloidal silver is not necessary. When used internally, colloidal silver serves as a remedy for special emergency situations, in which the immune system appears to be significantly overloaded - for example, during flu season, in cases of severe infections, or during health problems while on vacation. It is not a dietary supplement, however, which is intended for daily use and should not be used purely as a preventive measure either.
