Are you considering a colloidal silver nasal spray as an alternative health solution? If so, have you heard about colloidal silver nasal spray and its potential benefits for respiratory health?
Colloidal silver has long been purported for its ability to reduce infection-causing microbes, but is there scientific evidence to back up these claims? Before you try this type of product, it’s important to understand what colloidal silver is and how it might affect your overall well-being.
This blog post will cover the basics of colloidal silver nasal sprays – from their benefits to possible side effects – so you can make the best decision for your health. Read on to learn if a colloidal silver nasal spray is right for you. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
What is Colloidal Silver?
Colloidal silver nasal sprays are colloidal silver suspensions in an isotonic solution, generally water. The colloidal silver is present in the form of nano-particles which, when sprayed into the nose, are purported to help fight infection and reduce inflammation. [1]
Colloidal silver is a suspension of microscopic particles of silver in a colloid, typically water. It is widely used as a dietary supplement and home remedy for many ailments.
It has anti-fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties due to its ability to block enzymes needed by bacteria, fungi, and viruses to survive and reproduce. [2]
What is a Nasal Spray?
A nasal spray is a type of medication used to treat conditions in the nose, such as allergies, infections, and inflammation. It delivers drugs directly into the nasal cavity through an atomizer or spray bottle. [3]
Nasal sprays are available over-the-counter or by prescription, depending on the active ingredients. Commonly used ingredients include corticosteroids, antihistamines, and decongestants.
Is It Safe to Use Colloidal Silver as a Nasal Spray?
Colloidal silver is generally considered safe when used properly. However, some people may experience side effects such as skin discoloration, stomach discomfort, and headaches.
Long-term use of colloidal silver has been linked to a rare condition called argyria, where the skin and eyes become permanently discolored. Therefore, it’s important to use colloidal silver nasal sprays as directed and not for prolonged periods.
Colloidal Silver Nasal Spray Benefits
Colloidal silver is believed to have several health benefits when used as a nasal spray. These include:
- Reduced inflammation, which can help alleviate cold and allergy symptoms
- Improved respiratory health
- Increased immunity by fighting infection-causing bacteria, fungi, and viruses
- Reduced risk of sinus infections
- Faster healing from an existing infection
- Relieving allergies and hay fever
- Healing colds, flu, and other upper respiratory infections
Colloidal Silver Nasal Spray Uses
Sinusitis and other allergy symptoms almost always result from bacteria and other microorganisms. As a result, a sinus rinsing with colloidal silver may help eliminate the bacteria that cause skin irritation.
Sinusitis and other allergy symptoms almost always result from bacteria and other microorganisms. As a result, a sinus rinsing with colloidal silver may help eliminate the bacteria that cause skin irritation. In addition, when sprayed or rinsed into the nasal passages, it acts as a natural antibiotic and anti-fungal to treat sinusitis.
Because of its antibacterial properties, colloidal silver is an excellent therapy for sinus infections caused by various bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of colloidal silver spray inhibit the overproduction of cytokines in inflamed tissues. It can reduce inflammation and restore the affected tissue’s normal function.
Recent studies have also shown that microbial infections that go unnoticed may contribute to the airways’ inflammation, leading to frequent allergic reactions and asthma. It’s useful for treating sinusitis and eczema that result from contact with plant allergies.
How to Use Colloidal Silver Nasal Spray
The colloidal silver nasal spray should be used as directed. It is best to start with a small dose and gradually increase it if necessary. Generally, colloidal silver nasal sprays are used twice daily for two weeks or until the desired effects are experienced.
As recommended by an expert, a colloidal silver generator set to produce particles between 1 and 40 nanometers in size is said to provide a safe and effective product with no known adverse effects when used as directed.
The colloidal silver nasal spray should be sprayed into each nostril. The colloidal silver in the spray coats the mucous membranes and sinus cavities to help fight infection, reduce inflammation, and improve nasal congestion.
What are the Side Effects of Colloidal Silver Nasal Spray?
Colloidal silver is generally considered safe, but it can cause some side effects, such as skin discoloration, stomach discomfort, headaches, and nausea. It is important to note that colloidal silver nasal sprays are not approved by the FDA and should only be used with caution after consulting a healthcare professional.
What is Silver Poisoning?
Silver poisoning, or argyria (from Greek argyros), is the most serious side effect of long-term exposure to colloidal silver. The accumulation of silver metal particles in the body and skin causes argyria, which causes the skin to become blue-gray. It’s also possible to accumulate silver in your kidneys, liver, and intestines.
The development of argyria is thought to require chronic use of silver compounds. However, it is still being determined how much and when this will happen. Colloidal silver products include silver nano-particles, although the actual hazards of swallowing them are unclear. These particles pose a possible threat to health since they may enter the body through several routes, including the digestive tract, the skin, and the lungs. [4]
Silver exposure should be limited to 2.27 micrograms per pound of body weight each day, as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (5 mcg per kg) recommended.
Colloidal Silver Nasal Spray Risks and Dangers
Since 1999, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has considered colloidal silver hazardous. For this reason, the FDA has banned the sale of any OTC remedies using silver salts or colloidal silver since they are not considered safe or effective.
Unfortunately, no new colloidal silver medications have been authorized by the FDA since then. Still, you can get it rather easily in supplement form. Although it has been allowed for topical use, the FDA warns against ingesting colloidal silver because of its numerous potential negative effects.
Pregnant or breastfeeding people with an existing medical condition or taking any medications should consult their doctor before using the colloidal silver nasal spray. Additionally, colloidal silver should not be used on children unless directed by a doctor.
Bottom Line: What is a Colloidal Silver Nasal Spray?
Colloidal silver is a promising alternative therapy for sinus infections and other conditions. However, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy. Because the FDA does not approve colloidal silver, it should be used cautiously.
Proper use and dosage are essential for safe and effective results. Colloidal silver can help reduce inflammation and relieve sinusitis symptoms when applied correctly.
Before trying colloidal silver nasal spray, it’s highly recommended to consult a healthcare professional. They can advise you on the best course of treatment based on your individual needs.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Colloidal silver. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Retrieved February 3, 2023, from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/colloidal-silver.
- Dakal TC, Kumar A, Majumdar RS, Yadav V. Mechanistic Basis of Antimicrobial Actions of Silver Nano-particles. Front Microbiol. 2016 Nov 16;7:1831. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.01831. PMID: 27899918; PMCID: PMC5110546.
- Williamson S, Dennison L, Greenwell K, Denison-Day J, Mowbray F, Richards-Hall S, Smith D, Bradbury K, Ainsworth B, Little P, Geraghty AWA, Yardley L. Using nasal sprays to prevent respiratory tract infections: a qualitative study of online consumer reviews and primary care patient interviews. BMJ Open. 2022 Jun 30;12(6):e059661. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059661. PMID: 35772824; PMCID: PMC9247325.
- Ferdous Z, Nemmar A. Health Impact of Silver Nanoparticles: A Review of the Biodistribution and Toxicity Following Various Routes of Exposure. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Mar 30;21(7):2375. doi: 10.3390/ijms21072375. PMID: 32235542; PMCID: PMC7177798.