Colloidal silver is a solution of silver particles suspended in a liquid. The spelling of "colloidal silver" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word "colloidal" is pronounced /kəˈlɔɪd(ə)l/, with the stress on the second syllable. The word "silver" is pronounced /ˈsɪlvər/, with the stress on the first syllable. The combination of these two words creates the chemical term "colloidal silver," which is often used in alternative medicine practices for its purported healing properties.
Colloidal silver is a suspension of extremely tiny silver particles in a liquid medium. It is a type of colloid, which refers to a dispersion of solid particles in a liquid. In the case of colloidal silver, the liquid medium is typically water. The silver particles are so small that they remain suspended rather than settling at the bottom of the container.
Colloidal silver is often used as a dietary supplement or alternative medicine remedy due to its perceived antimicrobial properties. It has been historically used for its potential antibacterial and antifungal effects. Proponents of colloidal silver claim that it can help treat various infectious conditions, ranging from sinus infections to eye infections and skin conditions. However, it is important to note that the medical community is divided on the effectiveness and safety of colloidal silver.
The exact mechanisms of how colloidal silver may work are not yet fully understood, and scientific evidence supporting its broad range of health claims is limited. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about potential health risks associated with its use, as excessive or prolonged use of colloidal silver can lead to argyria, a condition characterized by the deposition of silver particles in the skin, eyes, and internal organs, resulting in a bluish-gray discoloration.
Due to the lack of scientific consensus and the potential risks involved, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using colloidal silver as a health supplement or therapeutic agent.
Collargol.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "colloidal silver" originates from the combination of two words: "colloidal" and "silver".
1. Colloidal: The word "colloidal" comes from the Latin word "colloids", meaning glue-like. It was coined in the late 19th century by Thomas Graham, a Scottish chemist. Graham derived the term from the Greek word "kolla", which means glue. Colloidal refers to a state in which tiny particles of a substance are suspended evenly throughout a different medium, creating a colloid. In a colloid, the particles do not dissolve, but remain dispersed throughout the medium due to their smaller size.
2. Silver: The word "silver" has roots in multiple languages. Its ultimate origin is traced back to the Latin word "argentum".