Colloidal silver is a suspension of microscopic silver particles in water. It is said to be an excellent treatment for many kinds of infections, irritations, and other health problems. The colloidal silver dosage depends on many different factors, including the strength of the solution, the age and physical condition of the person taking it, and the purpose for which it is being taken. There is a great deal of controversy surrounding the use of colloidal silver. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that colloidal silver is not an effective treatment for any of the conditions for which it is usually sold when treating both humans and animals.
Colloidal silver is known to result in some specific problems. It can cause argyria, a gray-blue discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, gums, nails, and internal organs. This happens when too many particles collect in the body. Once argyria occurs, it is not reversible and, while not harmful physically, can cause many cosmetic issues for the afflicted person. Ingesting too much colloidal silver also has the potential to cause skin irritation, kidney damage, and neurological problems, including seizures, according to the Mayo Clinic.
For people who would like to take colloidal silver despite the possible risks, the first factor to consider in determining the correct colloidal silver dosage is the strength of the suspension and the size of the particles. These things are difficult, if not impossible, to measure in a home setting, but the color of the suspension can be used as a guide. Properly made colloidal silver is created using electrolysis, which results in particles of the proper size that are suspended in the water due to their electrically charged state. The liquid should range from clear to a pale yellow color. Such solutions are considered to be the most effective and are reported to be safe when the colloidal silver dosage is one or two tablespoons several times per day.
How long a person has been taking colloidal silver is another important factor. Taking too much over a long period of time can result in argyria or other problems, while lower doses are not as likely to cause these difficulties. A person’s size and health also come into play in determining colloidal silver dosage, since a large, healthy person can take more colloidal silver than a small or sick one can. The final dosage factor that is essential to consider is the purpose for which the colloidal silver is being taken. The recommended dosage is generally higher to treat an active infection than it is to help to soothe a condition that has been present for a long period of time.