You may be aware of the ongoing debate: is colloidal silver safe? Is nano silver safe? Is it safe for the environment? Natural medicine advocates insist it is, while its (much richer) opponents try to cast doubt. Fortunately, environmentalists are beginning to weigh in with evidence and research in support of colloidal silver.
A Brief History of Colloidal Silver
Colloidal silver has been used for centuries to prevent bacterial growth in food and water. In ancient times, people would store liquids in silver vessels to keep them fresh. By the early twentieth century, American medicine had begun to explore the various potential health benefits of silver, recognizing its antimicrobial properties.
However, colloidal silver fell out of favor when antibiotics were invented in the early 1940s, as antibiotics were cheaper and easier to produce. Despite this shift, colloidal silver remained an important tool in some medical and homeopathic practices. In 1954, colloidal silver was officially registered as biocidal, meaning it's a natural antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal agent.
The Safety of Colloidal Silver
Historical Concerns: Argyria
One of the most well-known concerns regarding colloidal silver is argyria, a condition that causes a blue-gray discoloration of the skin. Most documented cases of argyria occurred in the 1930s and involved individuals who consumed large quantities of homemade silver compounds. These compounds often contained silver salts, which are not the same as true colloidal silver.
Modern high-profile cases of argyria typically involve the use of homemade silver generators, which produce larger silver particles and higher concentrations than commercially available colloidal silver. Properly made colloidal silver, such as Mesosilver, uses tiny silver particles and is produced under controlled conditions to ensure safety.
Modern Research and Findings
Recent studies have explored the safety and efficacy of colloidal silver. A 2013 study published in the journal Nanomedicine found that silver nanoparticles could effectively kill a range of bacteria without harming human cells. Another study in Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2007 showed that colloidal silver could help reduce symptoms of sinus infections.
Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the use of silver in water purification systems, noting its effectiveness in reducing bacterial contamination.
Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of colloidal silver and nano silver is another point of contention. Opponents argue that silver nanoparticles could accumulate in the environment and harm aquatic life. However, studies conducted by environmental scientists suggest that the concentrations of silver released into the environment from consumer products are generally too low to cause significant harm.
A study published in Environmental Science & Technology in 2010 concluded that while more research is needed, the existing evidence does not support the notion that nano silver poses a significant environmental threat. Environmentalists have pointed out that more extensive, targeted research is necessary to fully understand the long-term effects.
Why is This Debate Important?
Beyond the threat to your right to make informed decisions about your health, colloidal silver/nano silver has many important uses. One significant use is in water filters, which can be crucial for third-world countries where access to clean water is limited. Silver nanoparticles are used in these filters to effectively kill bacteria and other pathogens, making water safe to drink.
Additionally, colloidal silver is used in wound dressings, coatings for medical devices, and as an antimicrobial agent in consumer products such as refrigerators and washing machines.
Key Benefits of Colloidal Silver
- Antimicrobial Properties: Effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. A study in the International Journal of Nanomedicine found that silver nanoparticles have a broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect.
- Historical Use: Trusted for centuries in preventing bacterial growth in food and water.
- Modern Applications: Used in water filters, wound dressings, and as a dietary supplement for immune support. Research published in the Journal of Nanobiotechnology in 2018 highlighted the potential of silver nanoparticles in enhancing wound healing.
Ongoing Research and Support
Despite ongoing debates, the body of evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of colloidal silver continues to grow. Researchers and environmentalists alike are calling for more studies to provide a clearer understanding of its benefits and potential risks.
