Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Silver, particularly in its purified forms like silver nitrate or colloidal silver, has a long history of use as an antimicrobial agent, predating the development of modern antibiotics. Scientifically, silver ions (Ag+) have demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial activity in vitro by disrupting bacterial cell membranes, denaturing proteins, and interfering with DNA replication. Silver sulfadiazine cream, for example, is widely used in clinical settings to prevent and treat infections in burn wounds, and its efficacy is supported by randomized clinical trials and guidelines from wound care organizations.

However, the evidence supporting the use of purified silver for systemic bacterial infections or oral supplementation is weak and potentially unsafe. The FDA has not approved colloidal silver products for oral use, and ingestion can lead to argyria (irreversible skin discoloration) and other toxic effects. The strongest evidence for silver’s antimicrobial properties lies in topical applications, where formulations such as silver-impregnated dressings and creams have shown modest benefit in reducing infection rates in wounds and ulcers.

In summary, while the use of purified silver for topical bacterial infection control is scientifically validated (evidence level 2 out of 5), it is limited to specific contexts (mainly wound care), and there is no robust evidence for its effectiveness or safety in treating systemic infections. Caution is warranted, and silver should not be used as a substitute for standard antibiotic therapy.

More about purified silver
More about Infection (bacterial)

Other ingredients used for Infection (bacterial)

Other health conditions supported by purified silver

Products containing purified silver

Nature's Sunshine Chinese TCM Negative Pack
Nature's Sunshine Silver Shield (With Aqua Sol)
Nature's Sunshine Silver Shield Gel
Nature's Sunshine Silver Shield Rescue Gel
Nature's Sunshine Silver Shield (With Aqua Sol)
Nature's Sunshine Silver Shield (With Aqua Sol)
Nature's Sunshine Silver Shield (With Aqua Sol)