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What Are the Pros and Cons of Colloidal Silver for Herpes?

Glyn Sinclair
Glyn Sinclair

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted condition that is caused by the herpes simplex virus and can cause blisters and sores in the genital area. Colloidal silver is a remedy of water infused with silver particles. It is used to destroy bacteria and boost the immune system and can also be applied topically for cuts and rashes. The use of colloidal silver for herpes is still up for debate; however, there are a number of side effects connected to the use of this preparation. It is recommended to use colloidal silver under the supervision of a medical doctor.

Long-term use of colloidal silver can sometimes lead to argyria, which is a condition caused by over exposure to medicinal silver formulas. When this happens, silver salts may begin to form in the eyes, skin and organs and turn the skin a blue-gray color. It can be localized or generalized and cover the entire body. Argyria was more prevalent in the past when oral medicines were infused with silver. With the proliferation of supplements containing silver, this condition could be on the rise again.

A blister caused by herpes type 1.
A blister caused by herpes type 1.

There is no medical evidence that supports claims that colloidal silver may be an effective treatment. Some of the manufacturers’ claims that the use of colloidal silver for herpes is an effective treatment stems from the assertion that it is a natural antibiotic. It is purported to eradicate bacteria as well as help to prevent infection. In this way it supposedly can treat conditions such as candida and reduce the side effects associated with herpes. It is said to speed up the healing period and is painless when applied topically to the skin.

Individuals with genital herpes are able to donate blood as long as they are feeling well.
Individuals with genital herpes are able to donate blood as long as they are feeling well.

Some people are allergic to silver and should not drink or apply the solution at all. For those who can tolerate silver, it tends not affect them negatively unless it is consumed in large amounts over a period of time. Some of the side effects of taking colloidal silver for herpes on a sustained basis could include skin irritations, stomach disorders, fatigue and headaches. More serious are seizures and kidney complications.

Condoms may not necessarily protect against genital herpes.
Condoms may not necessarily protect against genital herpes.

Other potential risks of using colloidal silver for herpes can be reduced efficacy of prescribed medications. This can be the case with certain antibiotics and is the reason that it is essential to consult with a doctor when using colloidal silver as an alternative medication choice. Colloidal silver products are generally available in health food stores in certain countries, yet it can be illegal for marketers to tout the solution as a medical treatment.

Discussion Comments

stoneMason
I'm scared of taking colloidal silver because I heard that it may have contaminants and I don't want to take the risk of turning blue. Making it a home with a colloidal silver maker is supposed to be better but those cost a lot.

For now, I only apply colloidal silver topically on blisters to help them heal.

burcinc

@anamur-- I have a friend who claims that she cured her genital herpes with colloidal silver. I say "claims" because what she considers a cure is not experiencing symptoms. It's possible to avoid herpes breakouts with medications and supplements, but that's not called a cure. There is no cure for herpes in the sense that someone who is infected with it will always carry the virus. The potential for another outbreak and the potential to infect others will always exist.

That being said, colloidal silver has antibacterial and antiviral effects and can help keep herpes under control. My friend hasn't had an outbreak in several years and she told me that she used to get three to four outbreaks per year before that. It's quite an accomplishment and it happened after she stared taking colloidal silver.

So I think that colloidal silver is worth a try for genital herpes. Just make sure that you are using a high-quality product that is safe to consume and don't overdose.

serenesurface

Has anyone here tried colloidal silver for genital herpes? Did it work?

I've tried antiviral medications for my herpes, but they weren't very effective. I also experience bad side effects with antivirals. I'm looking for a safer solution to blisters. I really want to try colloidal silver.

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    • A blister caused by herpes type 1.
      By: uwimages
      A blister caused by herpes type 1.
    • Individuals with genital herpes are able to donate blood as long as they are feeling well.
      By: Gina Sanders
      Individuals with genital herpes are able to donate blood as long as they are feeling well.
    • Condoms may not necessarily protect against genital herpes.
      By: Peter Atkins
      Condoms may not necessarily protect against genital herpes.
    • Antiviral creams can help manage genital herpes outbreaks.
      By: Picture-Factory
      Antiviral creams can help manage genital herpes outbreaks.
    • Stomach disorders are possible side effects when taking colloidal silver for herpes.
      By: Artem Furman
      Stomach disorders are possible side effects when taking colloidal silver for herpes.
    • Colloidal silver may be applied topically to speed the healing of oral herpes outbreaks.
      By: Artyom Yefimov
      Colloidal silver may be applied topically to speed the healing of oral herpes outbreaks.
    • Doctors should be consulted when a patient is using colloidal silver.
      By: Rido
      Doctors should be consulted when a patient is using colloidal silver.