What’s the Best PPM for Colloidal Silver? A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Choosing the Right Concentration
If you're wondering, "How many PPM should colloidal silver be?" or "Is 20 PPM colloidal silver good?" — you're not alone. Whether you're new to colloidal silver or already using it, understanding the science behind PPM (parts per million) and how it impacts the quality of colloidal silver is essential.
In this guide, we’ll unravel the mystery behind PPM, explore the differences between concentrations like 10 PPM vs. 30 PPM, and help you decide which PPM is best for your needs. Plus, we’ll answer common questions, like "Is higher PPM better?" and "What does PPM mean in colloidal silver?" We’ll also link to more in-depth resources, like our detailed blog on the science of PPM and a comparison of popular colloidal silver brands.
What is PPM in Colloidal Silver?
PPM stands for "parts per million," which refers to the concentration of silver particles in the colloidal silver solution. In simpler terms, it indicates how much silver is present compared to the total amount of liquid. For example, in 10 PPM colloidal silver, there are 10 parts of silver for every million parts of water.
What Does PPM Mean in Colloidal Silver?
PPM helps users determine the concentration of silver in the product and its potential effectiveness. Higher PPM means more silver in the solution, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's better or more effective.
Chart: PPM Levels and Bioavailability
One of the most important aspects of colloidal silver is its bioavailability—how easily the body can absorb the silver particles. Contrary to popular belief, higher PPM doesn’t always mean better bioavailability.
Graph Explanation: This line graph compares different PPM levels (10, 20, 30, 50, 500) and their corresponding bioavailability percentage to show how lower PPM, like 20, can outperform higher PPM solutions in terms of absorption.
Is Higher PPM Better in Colloidal Silver?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions, and the answer is not straightforward. In general, more silver particles (higher PPM) may sound better, but studies show that smaller particles at a lower PPM may actually be more effective.
Low PPM (10-20 PPM):
- Best for daily use: A lower PPM, like 10 or 20, often contains smaller silver particles that are easier for the body to absorb.
- Why smaller is better: The ultra-small particle size in lower PPM solutions allows silver to travel through the body more efficiently. MesoSilver, for example, has one of the smallest particle sizes available, making its 20 PPM solution highly effective .
High PPM (30-500 PPM):
- Not always better: As PPM increases, the silver particle size can get larger, reducing its bioavailability. Many colloidal silver products with extremely high PPM (such as 500 PPM) may contain silver proteins or compounds, which are less effective.
- Silver proteins: Products labeled with high PPM, like 500 PPM colloidal silver, are often not true colloidal silver and may contain silver proteins. These can stay in the body longer and may cause undesirable effects like argyria (a rare condition that turns the skin blue).
Related Read: For more on how PPM impacts quality and safety, check out our article, The Science of PPM in Colloidal Silver: Unraveling the Quality Quandary .
What is the Best PPM for Colloidal Silver?
| Use | Recommended PPM | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Immune Support | 10-20 PPM | Safe for regular consumption |
| Sinus Health | 10-20 PPM | Used in nasal sprays |
| Topical Skin Use | 20-30 PPM | For wound healing |
| Acute Infections | 30-50 PPM | Short-term use only |
Based on current research and user feedback, the best PPM for colloidal silver generally falls within the 15-25 PPM range.
10 PPM vs. 30 PPM Colloidal Silver
- 10 PPM: Best for general immune support and regular daily use. With smaller particles, 10 PPM can be highly effective for minor health concerns and preventive measures.
- 30 PPM: More concentrated, 30 PPM may be ideal for short-term use during illness but should not be the go-to for daily consumption.
How Many PPM of Colloidal Silver is Safe?
The EPA’s daily reference dose suggests that it’s safe to take up to 5 micrograms per kilogram of body weight daily. However, it’s essential to choose true colloidal silver with smaller particles for better absorption and to avoid higher concentrations of silver proteins. Always consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about long-term use.
Related Read: To better understand the differences between various brands and how they compare, see our in-depth comparison, MesoSilver vs. Sovereign Silver
20 PPM Colloidal Silver Good?
Yes! 20 PPM is considered a sweet spot for colloidal silver—offering a balance between concentration and particle size. It’s effective for a wide range of uses, from immune support to skin care, and it maintains high bioavailability.
For those seeking to support immune health, MesoSilver’s 20 PPM colloidal silver is one of the best options on the market, providing the smallest particle size for maximum effectiveness .
Is 500 PPM Colloidal Silver Safe?
While high PPM colloidal silver products may exist, they often aren’t true colloidal silver and could contain silver proteins. 500 PPM is not recommended for daily use due to the risks of silver buildup and reduced bioavailability.
How to Measure PPM in Colloidal Silver
Measuring PPM is typically done in a lab setting, where the exact concentration of silver particles in the solution is assessed. For those interested in colloidal silver quality, it's best to rely on trusted brands that publish their PPM and particle size information transparently.
Conclusion: Choose the Best PPM for Your Needs
When choosing colloidal silver, focus on purity, particle size, and an optimal PPM range of 15-25. Colloidal silver with 20 PPM offers the best of both worlds—concentration and effectiveness. Remember, more PPM doesn’t always mean better results. Instead, look for true colloidal silver with smaller particles, such as MesoSilver.
For more detailed information on PPM and colloidal silver quality, check out our comprehensive guide on the science of PPM and learn how to make the best choice for your health .
