What is colloidal silver?

Colloidal silver is a mineral that is made up of small silver particles suspended in liquid. Once considered to have various health benefits, research indicates that the product is not a beneficial mineral supplement.

Some manufacturers claim that colloidal silver products offer numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system, fighting bacteria, and treating cancer and HIV/AIDS. In spite of these claims, scientific studies have not proven that colloidal silver is effective in treating any disease, and indicate that its use can result in serious side effects, according to WebMD. In 1997 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration considered colloidal silver drug products to be neither safe nor effective. Notwithstanding the safety concerns, it continues to be offered and marketed as a dietary supplement.