Tag Archives: what is colloidal silver

Colloidal Silver Water

How to Understand: Different Types of Colloidal Silver Water

Leave a comment

Colloidal silver has long been promoted as a natural remedy with antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. While it has a well-documented history of use, confusion persists around what colloidal silver actually is, especially since the term has been used to describe several distinct types of silver-based products. Understanding the differences is essential to avoid side effects and to ensure you’re using a product that is both safe and effective.

What Is “Colloidal Silver”?

The term “colloidal silver” is commonly used today to describe liquid products that contain silver particles, silver ions, and water. However, in both historical and scientific contexts, “colloidal silver” has referred to three primary types of substances:

  1. Electro Colloidal Silver (ECS)
  2. Mild Silver Protein (MSP)
  3. Silver Salts (SS)

Each of these differs significantly in how it’s made, how it behaves in the body, and how safe or effective it is for medicinal use.

  1. Electro Colloidal Silver (ECS)

Electro-colloidal silver is considered the “true” colloid by most natural health professionals. It is created using a low-voltage electric current passed through pure silver electrodes submerged in distilled or deionized water. This process causes microscopic silver particles and ions to become suspended in the water.

Key Features:

  • Appearance: Transparent and colorless or with a slight yellow tint
  • Silver Content: Usually 5–10 ppm (parts per million)
  • Particle Size: Ideally 0.001 to 0.01 microns
  • Composition: 5–25% particles, 75–95% ions
  • Additives: None—pure silver and distilled water
  • pH: Close to 7 (neutral)

Benefits:

  • Non-toxic when made and used correctly
  • Easily absorbed by the body
  • Least likely to cause argyria (a rare condition where skin turns blue-gray)

Considerations:

  • Needs to be made or sourced carefully, as quality varies widely
  • Most negative press about “colloidal silver” actually refers to other types
  1. Mild Silver Protein (MSP)

MSP products are made by chemically bonding silver to a protein molecule (typically gelatin) using silver nitrate and other chemicals. This stabilizer helps prevent the silver particles from clumping and settling out.

Key Features:

  • Appearance: Dark amber or brown, often cloudy
  • Silver Content: 19–23% silver
  • Additives: Gelatin or other protein stabilizers
  • pH: Variable

Benefits:

  • Longer shelf life due to stabilizers
  • Historically used in some pharmaceutical products

Risks:

  • High risk of argyria with overuse
  • Poor absorption compared to true colloids
  • Can cause allergic reactions due to protein content
  1. Silver Salts (SS)

Silver salts include compounds like silver nitrate, silver chloride, silver iodide, and silver phosphate. These are made chemically or electrochemically and dissolve fully in water, acting more like a chemical than a true colloid.

Key Features:

  • Appearance: Typically colorless or light gray
  • Silver Content: High—100 to 500 ppm
  • Additives: Often none, but still chemically reactive
  • pH: Often acidic

Benefits:

  • Potent antimicrobial properties
  • Used topically in burn creams and eye drops

Risks:

  • Highly irritating to tissues when ingested
  • Not safe for internal use
  • Most medical “horror stories” about colloidal silver relate to these forms

Ideal Colloidal Silver Characteristics

Based on research by Gibbs (1990) and Key (2000), the ideal colloidal silver product should:

  • Contain only pure silver and distilled water
  • Be clear and colorless, indicating small, uniform particles
  • Have a neutral pH (~7)
  • Be free of stabilizers or proteins
  • Be composed of both silver ions and small particles for maximum effectiveness

Some experts suggest calling such a product “ionic silver water” or “electrically isolated silver,” but “colloidal silver” remains the most widely recognized term.

DIY and Consumer Tips

Because there’s no industry standard or government oversight for colloidal silver products, consumers must be proactive:

  • Request lab reports from manufacturers, including data on ppm, pH, and particle size.
  • Avoid products with color, unless you understand the reason for the hue.
  • Steer clear of protein-based or chemically made products unless directed by a health professional.
  • Consider making your own colloidal silver using a home generator—many experienced users do this and test the results for quality.

Summary Comparison 

Feature Electro Colloidal Silver (ECS) Mild Silver Protein (MSP) Silver Salts (SS)
Appearance Clear or light yellow Dark amber, often cloudy Clear or light gray
Silver Concentration 5–10 ppm 19–23% 100–500 ppm
Composition Silver ions & particles Silver bound to protein Chemically bonded silver
Additives None Gelatin or other proteins None, but chemically active
Particle Size 0.001–0.01 microns Larger, irregular Fully dissolved, not colloidal
Risk of Argyria Low Moderate to High High
Suitable for Internal Use Yes (when pure and tested) No (not recommended) No
pH Level Neutral (around 7) Variable Often acidic

Colloidal silver can be a powerful health ally, but only if you know what you’re using. The true therapeutic benefits of colloidal silver lie in high-quality electro-colloidal products that are pure, properly produced, and used responsibly. By understanding the differences between ECS, MSP, and SS, consumers can make informed decisions and avoid the side effects tied to inferior products.

References:

  1. Gibbs, M. (1990). Silver in Medicine: Historical and Clinical Review.
  2. Key, B. (2000). Colloidal Silver: The Natural Antibiotic.
  3. Natural Immunogenics. Silver Kill Test Comparisons.
  4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2000). Consumer Advisory: Colloidal Silver Products.
  5. Barillo, D.J. & Marx, D.E. (2014). “Silver in medicine: A brief history BC 335 to present.” Burns, 40(S1), S3–S8.
  6. Rowland, Wayne & Herb Roi Richards. (2014). Silver Water Colloidal: Clinical Use and Commentary.

 

 

Colloidal Silver Water

What Is Colloidal Silver and How to Test Your Silver at Home

Gallery Leave a comment

You might have heard people talk about colloidal silver, but what does that really mean? Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.

What Is a Colloid?

A colloid is a mix of tiny bits of something (called particles) that float around in another substance. These particles are so small that you can’t see them with your eyes—or even with most microscopes! But they’re still bigger than individual atoms or molecules.

Think of fog: it looks like a cloud in the air because it’s made of tiny water droplets floating around. That’s a colloid.

  • Particles in a colloid are really small—about 1 to 1,000 nanometers across. (A human hair is about 76,000 nanometers wide!)
  • They don’t settle to the bottom like sand in water.
  • They can scatter light. This is why you can see car headlights in fog. This is called the Tyndall effect.

What Is Colloidal Silver?

Now that you know what a colloid is, let’s talk about colloidal silver.

Colloidal silver is:

  • Tiny bits of pure silver metal floating in water.
  • These bits are so small that they stay mixed in the water and don’t sink.
  • There are also usually some silver ions, which are single atoms of silver with an electric charge.

It’s important to know that real colloidal silver must have tiny silver particles in it—not just silver ions. If it’s only ions, it’s not a colloid. And if the silver bits are too big and sink to the bottom, it’s not a colloid either—it’s a suspension.

What’s the Difference?

Here’s a simple chart to show the difference between three types of mixtures:

Type Particle Size What Happens
Solution Too small to see Stays mixed, like salt water
Colloid Very tiny but larger Stays mixed and scatters light
Suspension Big particles Sinks to the bottom, like muddy water

So, colloidal silver sits in the middle. It’s not too small (like a solution) and not too big (like a suspension). It’s just right, with tiny bits of silver floating in water.

Why Does This Matter?

It’s easy to get confused. Some products say they’re “colloidal silver,” but they might only have silver ions and no particles. That’s not true colloidal silver.

Size matters: Others might have silver clumps that are too big, which means they could settle out and not work the same way.

Knowing the difference helps people understand what they’re using—and make sure they’re getting what they think they are.

Home Testing of Colloidal Silver

There are a few simple at-home tests that can help you determine what kind of colloidal silver you have—whether it’s mostly ionic, truly colloidal (with particles), or a suspension. While not perfect, these tests can give you useful clues:

1. The Tyndall Effect Test (Light Beam Test)

Purpose: Detects suspended particles (a hallmark of true colloids).

How to do it:

In a dark room, shine a laser pointer or small flashlight through your colloidal silver in a clear glass.

Look from the side to see if the beam is visible in the liquid.

What it tells you:

If you can see the beam clearly (like a line of light), this means there are particles scattering the light—a sign of colloidal silver.

If the beam isn’t visible, it might be mostly ionic silver or too low in particle content to qualify as a colloid.

2. Freezer Test (Particle Stability Check)

Purpose: Checks if particles are stable or if they clump together.

How to do it:

Put a sample of your colloidal silver in a small clear jar or glass.

Freeze it overnight.

Let it thaw slowly at room temperature.

What it tells you:

If it turns cloudy or forms flakes, your colloid has large particles or is unstable—possibly a suspension, not a true colloid.

If it remains clear, it likely contains very small and stable particles (or mostly ions).

3. Salt Test (Ionic Silver Reaction)

Purpose: Checks for the presence of silver ions.

How to do it:

Add a few drops of table salt water (dissolve salt in distilled water) to your silver solution.

What it tells you:

If it turns cloudy or forms white flakes, that indicates silver ions reacting with chloride in the salt to form silver chloride.

No cloudiness suggests fewer ions—possibly more of a true colloid.

Note: This test only shows the presence of ions, not particle size or purity.

4. Color Observation

What to look for:

Clear or light yellow color usually means ionic silver.

Amber, golden, or grayish tint often means particles are present.

Dark brown, murky, or black may mean particles are too large—a suspension or degraded product.

5. Conductivity Test (Optional, for DIY scientists)

If you have a TDS (total dissolved solids) or conductivity meter, you can:

Test the electrical conductivity.

Higher conductivity usually means more ions, not particles.

True colloidal silver with only particles and few ions often shows very low conductivity.

Summary Table

Test Indicates Ionic Silver Indicates Colloidal Silver (Particles) Indicates Suspension
Tyndall Effect ✖️ Beam not visible ✅ Beam visible through liquid ✅ May scatter light
Freezer Test ✅ Remains clear ✅ Remains clear if stable ✖️ May flake or clump
Salt Test ✅ Turns cloudy ✖️ No change ✖️ Usually clumps too
Color Clear/light yellow Golden/amber/gray Dark, murky
Conductivity ✅ High conductivity ✖️ Low conductivity ✖️ Usually unstable
  • A colloid is a mix with tiny particles that don’t settle out.
  • Colloidal silver has tiny silver particles floating in water.
  • It also often has silver ions, but particles are what make it a colloid.
  • Watch out for products that use the term “colloidal” incorrectly!

Home Testing References and Where to Learn More

Test What it reveals References
Laser/Tyndall Presence of nanoparticles Instructables laser‑Tyndall tutorial science.gov | nanoparticle TE assays researchgate.net
TDS meter Only measures ions Sovereign Silver “TDS is not silver concentration”
Freeze test Stability & size clues DIY colloidal‑silver guides (community‑based, standard practice)
Salt test Confirms ionic silver High‑school chem Silver‑chloride reaction principle
Visual/color Particle size & quality Mirax Supplements guidelines

Sources

  • Schramm, L.L. Colloids and Interfaces in Oil and Gas Industries, 2001.
  • Gibbs, W.F. The Truth About Colloidal Silver, 1990.
  • Key, M. Colloidal Silver Today, 2000.
  • Encyclopædia Britannica, “Colloid” entry.
  • Silver Institute and PubMed research on particle size and light scattering.

 

Colloidal Silver Water

What is Colloidal Silver Water and How Can You Use It Better

1 Comment

Throughout history, humans have engaged in the practice of tossing coins into wells and fountains, a tradition that has been associated with wish-making. However, one theory suggests that this practice was not solely driven by wish-making but also had a practical purpose. It is believed that ancient people may have been aware of the antibacterial properties of silver, leading them to toss silver coins into water sources like wells to make the water safer for consumption. Over time, the use of silver for health benefits has continued, especially in the colloidal form, where silver nanoparticles are suspended in water.

The popularity of colloidal silver has risen in recent decades, but its health benefits have been recognized for over a thousand years. Historical records indicate that silver was used for medicinal purposes as far back as 2,000 years ago. Renowned figures such as Hippocrates and Avicenna utilized silver to heal various medical conditions. In the 14th century, Conrad von Megenberg documented silver’s potential to treat ailments like scabies and bleeding hemorrhoids.

Hahnemann, the founder of homeopathic medicine, also employed silver to treat medical conditions, including using silver nitrate to stop bleeding. Today, medical professionals still use silver nitrate to control mild bleeding after dermatological procedures. However, excessive consumption of silver can lead to a condition called argyria, turning a person’s skin blue.

Before the discovery of antibiotics, colloidal silver was commonly used to combat infections. Although this practice diminished over time, it saw a resurgence in the 1990s due to concerns about antibiotic resistance.

The mechanism of action behind colloidal silver is believed to involve silver nano-molecules entering bacteria and viruses, causing structural changes and rendering them non-functional. Silver is also thought to bind to certain enzymes in viruses, fungi, and parasites, inactivating them.

Colloidal silver is associated with various potential benefits, such as:

  1. Anti-bacterial properties: Studies have suggested that colloidal silver can disrupt the “biofilm” formed by bacteria and directly destroy bacterial cell walls, which are essential for their reproduction. However, it may also impact beneficial gut bacteria, so the use of probiotics alongside colloidal silver is advised.
  2. Anti-viral properties: Research has indicated that silver nanoparticles can hinder the binding of certain viruses, like HIV and herpes, to host cells, reducing their infectiousness. However, colloidal silver should not be used as a preventive measure against HIV or herpes.
  3. Anti-fungal properties: Colloidal silver has shown anti-fungal activity in studies conducted at various concentrations.
  4. Dental cavities: Some studies suggest that colloidal silver may help prevent tooth cavities and reduce the risk of infection during dental implants.
  5. Wound healing/skin burns: Colloidal silver has been found to aid in the healing of second-degree burns and decrease the risk of wound infection.
  6. Sinus health: While some people claim the benefits of colloidal silver spray for sinus infections, studies proving overall effectiveness are limited.

Silver water has also been utilized in hospital settings, with silver-lined Foley catheters and certain intravenous tubing being used to reduce urinary and bacterial infections in patients.

Regarding safety, the maximum daily intake of silver should not exceed 14 mcg/kg daily. Rarely, excessive silver intake can lead to argyria, resulting in a bluish-gray skin color. Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals are generally advised to avoid using silver unless advised otherwise by their healthcare provider.

Colloidal silver water may interact with certain medications, reducing their absorption. Notably, antibiotics and the thyroid medication levothyroxine may be affected.

When using colloidal silver water, recommended dosages vary depending on the purpose, and it is essential to follow the instructions on the product label. Long-term use of colloidal silver may affect beneficial gut bacteria, so probiotic supplementation is often recommended.

In conclusion, colloidal silver water has a long history of being used for various health benefits, but its safety and effectiveness require careful consideration and further research. Before using colloidal silver, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine its appropriateness for individual needs and health conditions.

 

Colloidal Silver Water

Colloidal Silver and Ionic Silver

Leave a comment

Let’s take a look at colloidal silver and ionic silver. What is colloidal silver and what is ionic silver, and how do they work individually and together?

There are many types of silver products besides Silver Wain Water. The are many types of silver. In antiquity, silver pitchers, other silver food vessels, and silverware were used mostly by the upper class because of the cost to promote health and keep them from getting sick. Silver is an excellent natural antibacterial agent. There is fine silver at .999 grade, and sterling silver at .925, pre-1965 US silver dollars are 90% silver & 10% copper (0.77-0.78 troy ounces), and these silver dollars were used to place in milk to keep it from spoiling before the proliferation of refrigeration. In terms of silver water, very small particles will be in play.

Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver is silver particles to which silver ions attach themselves and do their work from the colloidal particle. Colloids are small nano-sized particles, sometimes referred to as angstrom-sized particles, of metallic silver. These tiny particles do not mix with others, are complete, and do not combine with other compounds.

Silver colloids survive as they travel about throughout the human body enabling them to do their work. Nano-sized silver particles flow freely in the bloodstream and are not affected by hydrochloric acid found in the stomach. This freedom of movement helps colloidal silver to annihilate pathogens that may be found nearly anywhere inside the body.

Colloidal silver stays within the body for an extended period of time, which allows it to accomplish more over time. Nano-sized silver particles do not gather and build up inside the human body and are therefore considered not toxic.

There is a real benefit in knowing what kind of silver you are exposing your body to and how much silver exists in the product you are using. The metallic particles are necessary to provide the greatest benefit over time due to their particulate surface area.

Ionic Silver

Unlike metallic silver particles, colloidal silver, angstrom silver, and ionic silver is not the same as colloidal silver, and it is obvious by their nomenclature. Simply stated, silver ions are ions, not particles. Just the ions of silver. And as you might expect, they do act differently than particles.

A silver ion is a silver atom with one less electron. So, a silver atom without one of its outer electrons is no longer a complete atom, but an ion, a silver ion. In its ionic form, the silver ion will combine with other elements to produce compounds.

Within the human body, silver ions are likely to combine with chloride to form silver chloride. While silver ions are water soluble, silver chloride is not soluble, ergo this compound does not dissolve. Silver colloids do not combine with chloride and therefore do not make silver chloride.

Rather than lingering inside the body, like silver colloids, silver chloride is processed by the kidneys and leaves via the urinary tract, with no trace left behind. Therefore, concurrent infusion or ingestion of silver ions is necessary because they do not stay in the bloodstream very long.

Ionic silver is so small that there is little or no chance of contracting argyria which is the silver-related condition that can turn skin pigment blue or gray. Though high concentrations of ionic silver, say over 100 parts per million, could cause argyria.

It is that reactivity is due to the missing electron that enables silver ions to suffocate and eliminate some 650 pathogens.

Ionic silver is created by the process of electrolysis.

Left to themselves, silver ions are powerful pathogen killers.

Silver Wain Water is created by a high-energy electric source equivalent to manmade lightning based on Tesla technology that creates both electrically charged ions and silver particles.