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If you ever asked a co-worker or friend whether they have heard of colloidal silver, they may have asked in return, 'What is colloidal silver?' The question is common, because many people are still not familiar with colloidal silver.

So what is colloidal silver?

Colloidal silver is a suspension of very tiny silver particles in pure water, thought by many to heal, prevent infection, and enhance health.

'What is colloidal silver?' Julius Caesar might have asked a servant. Colloidal silver was not used that long ago, but prior to the use of colloidal silver, silver itself was used in health-related applications for centuries. Julius Caesar probably had drinking vessels lined with it to purify his water.

'What is colloidal silver?' Ask great, great grandmother. She may never have heard of colloidal silver, but she knew, in the 1800's and into the early 1900's, silver's unique use to keep milk fresh without refrigeration. She dropped a silver coin into milk containers, and the milk remained fresh at room temperature.

'What is colloidal silver?' Mrs. Jones may have asked her physician in 1901. Colloidal silver has been around for nearly a hundred years. It was used by a number of medical institutions prior to 1939. Physicians used it as an effective form of antibiotic, and at that time, it was considered high-tech. Following that use, more and more colloidal silver products were produced and marketed, but they were available only at a high price.

Perhaps unfortunately, as the medical community grew and expanded, several affordable and fast working drugs came on the market. These drugs, new and exciting, replaced the old, familiar colloidal silver. Drug companies made them at much less cost. Physicians turned to the new alternatives to save money as well as to 'keep up with the times.' Suddenly, colloidal silver researches that had been launched by several medical experts were set aside. This lead to sudden death for the colloidal silver market.

Although production of colloidal silver was stopped due to the emergence of those effective alternatives, many worked conscientiously to bring production back to life. Gradually, research was resumed, and new things were learned. Colloidal silver reappeared on the market, though with controversy.

What is colloidal silver?

1. It is a substance that is believed to keep drinking water potable for a long period of time, and is in the purified water we drink.

2. It is believed to be a form of antibiotic. This is based on findings that reveal colloidal silver's antimicrobial properties.

3. It is believed to be an effective, topical antiseptic for wounds and burns, preventing infection as healing takes place.

4. It is a treatment that was prescribed in the United States Navy's corpsman's manual until 1973.

Colloidal silver appears to be a strong, effective antibiotic and infection preventative. It reportedly renders inoperative the enzyme that one-celled bacteria, viruses and fungi need for the metabolism of oxygen. Without oxygen, the microbes suffocate, but corresponding harm does not occur to human enzymes. The result is believed to be the destruction of disease-causing organisms in the body and in the food.

What is colloidal silver to 'Science Digest?' The March 1978 issue of "Science Digest" contains an article by Jim Powell, entitled "Our Mightiest Germ Fighter" in which Powell tells us that "silver is emerging as a wonder of modern medicine." Interest in silver was rekindled in the late 1970's because of it's effectiveness in treating burn victims. Non-toxic, non-stinging silver could be used over large areas of the body, including the eyes. In his article, Powell quotes Dr. Harry Margraf of St. Louis, who says, 'Silver is the best all around germ-fighter we have.'

What is colloidal silver to NASA? The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) uses silver in the space shuttles' water filters and water purification systems. Why? Silver kills bacteria present in the water and keeps bacteria from growing inside the filter itself.

What is colloidal silver?

If someone asks you now, your answer will include the belief that it is an antibiotic and antiseptic, a water purifier, a dietary supplement, and more.

Colloidal silver may be ingested internally, but in moderate quantities, as over use of this supplement comes with the side effect Argyria ' a bluish tint to the skin. So far, Argyria is the only side effect linked to the use of colloidal silver.

NOTE: The United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) today classifies colloidal silver as a pre-1938 drug. A letter from the FDA dated 9/13/91 states: "These products may continue to be marketed . . . as long as they are advertised and labeled for the same use as in 1938 and as long as they are manufactured in the original manner."