Does Colloidal Silver Really Work in Killing Viruses?

Our planet is changing. No doubt about it. Part of the oncoming changes are a release of either old or new viruses affecting us. Scientists are looking for remedies, but does colloidal silver really work to fight these circulating killer viruses?

As if we don't have enough of tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, droughts and a variety of other usurping strange calamities which nature is imposing upon us, we also have viral warfare on our doorsteps to contend with as well. If nature's "big stuff" doesn't get to us, then the "little stuff" will and, by the looks of it, the viral microbes seem to be more of a threatening factor.

These nasty viral epidemics are effecting a huge percentage of our world's populace. We've all heard of the "Super Bugs", titled as such because these viral microbes seem to survive all sorts of antibiotics. These are bacteria that have become resistant to treatment with every sort of antibiotic that we have available to us. So, essentially a person is infected, there's no cure, and death is imminent. But of the worse viruses presently circulating is Avian Flu.

Despite scientists working around the clock for cures with all the viral outbreaks going on, the scare of these epidemics have people turning to more natural ways in procuring health solutions and remedies hoping that the spread of these viral problems will be restrained and controlled, or finally come to an end altogether.

Enter "Colloidal Silver" - The history & healing claims

Colloidal Silver entered into our history books long before gaining today's more serious recognition and popularity. During the plague in Europe, children from wealthy families were given silver spoons to suck on, hence the saying, "Born with a silver spoon in your mouth". Metallic silver has been used for centuries as a natural antibacterial mineral.

Indeed, silver in various forms has been used to benefit humanity. It is known to possess antiseptic, disinfectant, and germicidal properties and therefore may offer great assistance to one's immune system in fighting against certain invaders of the body. Like so many other micro minerals, it is considered by many to contribute to optimum health. Unfortunately, in today's reality, foods do not contain much of this trace element as they have in the past.

With the severe outbreaks of viral epidemics, silver is now emerging as a wonder of modern medicine. Medical statistics reveal in its research that an antibiotic kills perhaps a half-dozen different disease organisms, but silver has been reported to kill 650 micro-organisms, many of which are associated with human diseases.

According to FreeMarketNews.com, "In a groundbreaking study, the Journal of Nanotechnology has published a study that found silver nanoparticles kills HIV-1 and is likely to kill virtually any other virus. The study, which was conducted by the University of Texas and Mexico University, is the first medical study to ever explore the benefits of silver nanoparticles, according to Physorg.

After incubating the HIV-1 virus at 37 C, the silver particles killed 100% of the virus within 3 hours for all three methods. While further research is needed, researchers are optimistic that nanological silver may be the silver bullet to kill viruses."

Colloidal Silver Products

Colloidal silver is a product which consists of tiny silver particles suspended in a liquid base. Sometimes other ingredients are added, such as proteins, coloring, etc. The products are usually taken by mouth (in which case the products are considered dietary supplements). Some other types are sprayed, applied to the skin, or injected into a vein.

As a dietary supplement it must be defined as and meet all of the following conditions:

- It is a product (other than tobacco) that is intended to supplement the diet and that contains one or more of the following: vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, or any combination of the above ingredients.
- It is intended to be taken in tablet, softgel, powder, liquid form, gelcap, or capsule.
- It is not represented for use as a conventional food or as a sole item of a meal or the diet.
- It is labeled as being a dietary supplement.

The Other Side of the Silver Coin

However, despite the many reputed claims on how colloidal silver can strengthen one's metabolic immunity in warding off harmful viruses and bacterial infections, another view has surfaced showing an entirely different contradictive picture on what many have come to believe colloidal silver really does.

According to animal studies shown, silver builds up in the tissues of the body. In humans, buildup of silver from colloidal silver can lead to a side effect called argyria. It causes a bluish-gray discoloration of the skin, other organs, deep tissues, nails, and gums. Argyria cannot be treated or reversed, and it is permanent. While it is not known how argyria occurs, it is thought that silver combines with protein, forming complexes that deposit in the skin and are processed by sunlight (as in traditional photography). Other side effects from using colloidal silver products may include neurologic problems (such as seizures), kidney damage, stomach distress, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. Colloidal silver may interfere with the body's absorption of the following drugs: penacillamine, quinolones, tetracyclines, and thyroxine.

Conclusion

If you intend to or are considering in using colloidal silver, inform your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care. This is especially important if you are pregnant, nursing a baby, or considering treating a child.

Sources:
What is Colloidal Silver?
Colloidal Silver Effectiveness
Health Questions About Silver