- Region
- North America
- Origin
- Not a plant; mineral
- Traditions
- Western herbal medicine
North America · Mineral · № 364
Mineral · North America
Colloidal silver
Not a plant; mineral
Silver particles in water. There is no evidence that colloidal silver treats infections, HIV or other diseases; it can, however, cause argyria, a permanent blue-grey discoloration of the skin and organs.
Safety notes
Colloidal silver has no proven effect and can cause argyria: a permanent blue-grey discoloration of the skin and organs. It can also interfere with the absorption of medicines. Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose. Not in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Incorrect use can damage organs and turn the skin blue-grey. Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Herbs for viral infections: Not in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Incorrect use can damage organs and turn the skin blue-grey. Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.
Preparation
Do not take internally. In medicine only incorporated into wound dressings or medical devices.
Use in traditions
Silver has been used since antiquity to keep water and food clean. Colloidal silver products came onto the market around 1900, but disappeared from medicine after the arrival of antibiotics. In the US they may not be sold as medicines since 1999. Silver is, however, used in wound dressings and catheters.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Herbs for viral infections
Attributed effects
Toxic to bacteria and viruses; especially against HIV; also for ear infection, gonorrhoea, ringworm, psoriasis, flu (scientifically disputed).
Preparation and amount
Spray, tonic, drops or via a nebuliser.
Caution: Not in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Incorrect use can damage organs and turn the skin blue-grey. Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.