General Blogs

A blister is a small pocket of fluid within the upper layers of the skin, typically caused by forceful rubbing (friction), burning, freezing, chemical exposure or infection. Most blisters are filled with a clear fluid called serum or plasma. However, blisters can be filled with blood (known as blood blisters) or with pus (if they become infected). However, few people, know how to manage blisters. Does one pop it, just place a plaster over it hoping it will disappear or leave it open? Colloidal Silver For Blisters & Cuts This is where colloidal silver comes in handy. Blisters If you keep the blister wet with Healing Gel, you will find that the blister gets absorbed back into the body within a few days. Cuts Rinse with Silverlab Immune Booster & Anti-Microbial to remove any foreign particles. Keep moist with Silverlab Healing Gel until the cut has closed completely. If you wrap the cut with a plaster, you can spray Silverlab Healing Spray under the plaster every hour or two to keep it moist. See a healthcare practitioner if it needs stitches! Natural Health Tips on How To Treat Blisters – From Jan J Lategan Blisters A blister is the body’s way to protect damaged areas of the skin against infection. They are formed due to heat and friction, i.e. a shoe that does not fit. The fluid in the blister comes from the surrounding blood vessels and is sterile. Do not open a blister. Rather allow it to heal by itself. If it opens, spray Silverlab Healing Spray to combat infection and cover with an adhesive bandage. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.9] Excerpts from Jan J. Lategan’s book, “Natural Health Tips”.

Colloidal silver is a natural antibiotic. It destroys bacteria, viruses, and fungi and promotes healing. For that reason colloidal silver is quite an effective bladder or urine infection and even kidney infection aid. DESCRIPTION, SYMPTOMS & CAUSES The kidneys, ureters, bladder, penis, and urethra all play a part in filtering and expelling waste material (urine) from the body. Bladder infection symptoms are characterized by an urgent desire to empty the bladder. Urination is typically frequent and painful; even after the bladder has been emptied, there may be a desire to urinate again. [Prescription for Nutritional Healing [fourth edition] Phyllis A. Balch, CNC  Page 245] COLLOIDAL SILVER FOR BLADDER, BLADDER & KIDNEY INFECTION Take 50ml Colloidal Silver on an empty stomach and then drink a glass of water. Do this 3 times a day until you no longer feel pain in the bladder. This should work after 2 or 3 doses. HEALTHY LIFESTYLE & NUTRITIONAL TIPS Drink plenty of liquids. Cranberry juice also helps. Eat celery, parsley and watermelon. These foods act as natural diuretics and cleansers. Avoid citrus fruits; these produce alkaline urine that encourages bacterial growth. Avoid drink alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages, coffee, chocolate, refined or processed foods and simple sugars NATURAL HEALTH TIPS FROM JAN J LATEGAN Hepatitis Definition: It is inflammation of the liver due to one of five hepatitis viruses. Possible Causes: Contaminated food or water [type A]; blood transfusions; infected hypodermic needles; sexual intercourse [types B and C] Symptoms: Intense fatigue; jaundice; lethargy; grey stools; vomiting; dark urine; stomach ache on the right side; sluggish lever; nausea; loss of appetite. Lifestyle: Do not smoke; avoid passive smoking; take Paracetamol and plenty of Vitamin A. Avoid alcohol, butter, bacon, cream, full cream milk, real ice cream, sugars, Eat: Fruits [lots], vegetables, turkey, chicken, fish, beans, beets, and legumes. Cooking with plenty of garlic, turmeric and ginger and make sure you have enough rest.  Drink 6-8 glasses of water with lemon juice to cleanse the liver of toxins. Supplements: Milk Thistle with Dandelion [1×3] to cleanse and stimulate the liver. Take two small teaspoons of turmeric with water or juice to combat inflammation. 5ml colloidal silver every 2 hours or Echinacea Plus [2×2][6 days a week] to kill viruses. Take Alkaline Powder and Flaxseed capsules to heal the liver. Take Lecithin capsules [2×3] with phospholipids to detox the liver. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.39] BLADDER INFECTION Symptoms: Painful, frequent and urgent urination; pain in the lower back and abdominal area; chills and fever as the body tries to fight the infection; cloudy urine with strong odour; occasional traces of blood in urine.Lifestyle: Eat or drink watermelon, garlic and parsley capsules, cranberry juice, apple juice, onion and celery.Supplements: Cup of colloidal silver at first signs on an empty stomach, then 5ml every 2 hours; Citro Soda or Alkaline powder; turmeric [2 teaspoons per day]; Echinacea [2×2]; Cranberry capsules. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.22] Kidney Infection Definition: Inflammation and /or infection of the kidneys, sometimes accompanied by kidney stones. Possible Symptoms: Painful frequent urination, chronic lower back pain, fever, fatigue, chills, swollen ankles, impotence. Possible Causes: Excessive sugar and confectionery, red meat, gas sodas, pure coffee, colas, diabetes, allergies, metal toxicity, B-Vitamins and magnesium deficiency, excess aspirin [Disprins], much table salt, water pills, excessive prescription medication, lack of Omega 3 and 6, white bread. Prevention with right lifestyle and diet: Six glasses of water; it washes the toxins that cause the infection from the kidneys. Avoid antacids, e.g.  Rennie, etc. It may increase the risk of kidney stones.  Drink milk or ½ teaspoon of turmeric with water for heartburn. Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil, Motrin, Aleve, etc. which are connected with impaired renal function. Echinacea [1×2 six days a week] and Turmeric [3 small teaspoons] are natural anti-inflammatory drugs. Avoid foods that contain oxalates like rhubarb, spinach, and Ceylon tea. Oats or mueslie for breakfast, muesli containing 30% oats and nuts etc. Cook with herbs and spices for flavour and reduce salt to ½ teaspoon per day per person. Avoid Marmite, Bovril, Oxo, fish paste and biltong which contains high levels of salt. Avoid sardines, liver, kidney, anchovies etc. Drink caffeine free coffee, rooibos and fruit juice, especially apple juice for Quercetin. Dehydration is a risk factor in the formation of new stones.  People with stones must not exercise excessively. Walk 3-4 times per week for 30 minutes. Avoid acidic dishes such as tomatoe stew, marmalade, apricot jam, etc. in aluminium cookware; use only wood and plastic spoons in aluminium cookware. Remarks: Approximately 75% of kidney stones consist of calcium oxalate crystals and about 10% of uric acid crystals. B-Vitamins reduce the production of oxalates. Calcium is not the problem, oxalates are. Asparagus cleanses the kidneys, especially infections. Metal poisoning [see causes] are caused by metal fillings, aluminium cookware and lead in exhaust fumes from leaded petrol. Supporting Supplements (*optional): Alkaline Powder or pH Balance to neutralise the excess acid [also oxalic acid] in the urine.  It contains magnesium to combat inflammation. [also oxalic acid] in the urine.  It contains magnesium to combat inflammation. [See causes]  Citro Soda also makes your urine alkaline, but does not contain magnesium. Vitamin B6 [50mgx2] reduces the production of oxalates. [See causes] Flaxseed capsules [See causes] Use Colloidal Silver to combat any infections. [Follow instructions] Turmeric: 3 half teaspoons in juice per day to combat any inflammation. *Ginkgo Biloba to help recover any kidney damage. *Cranberry juice/capsules to combat infection in the kidneys [and bladder]. *Selenium capsules [2×100 mcg per day] if you suspect metal poisoning. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.48] Urine Control Loss (Incontinence) Caffeine irritates the bladder and is also a diuretic, which means it makes the body produce more urine; avoid coffee, tea and colas; drink caffeine-free and rooibos. Alcohol weakens the pelvic floor muscles in women; reduce or avoid it. Artificial sweeteners and sugar-free cola, which contain aspartame, can irritate the bladder.  It is a common cause of bladder dysfunction and leads to repeated urination.  Use Hermesetas, Sweetex, Advantage or Stevia as sweeteners. Drink 6-8 glasses (1.5 litres) of water per day; it dilutes the urine.  Concentrated urine irritates the bladder. Try to take no liquids about 3 hours before bedtime. Experiment with the following and see what works best for you: Echinacea [1×2] [6 out of 7 days]. Alkaline Powder, 5ml Colloidal Silver; big pinch of turmeric at bedtime; Citro Soda. You can also alternate them. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.85] Excerpts from Jan J. Lategan’s book, “Natural Health Tips”. 

Nappy rashes are stubborn bacterial and fungal infections that have been tested to respond to colloidal silver. The recommended dose is safe on diaper rash, and can clear up an infection quickly. Description,  Symptoms & Causes Irritant diaper dermatitis develops when skin is exposed to prolonged wetness, increased skin pH caused by urine and faeces, and resulting breakdown of the stratum corneum, or outermost layer of the skin. This may be due to diarrhea, frequent stools, tight diapers, overexposure to ammonia, or allergic reactions. In adults, the stratum corneum is composed of 25 to 30 layers of flattened dead keratinocytes, which are continuously shed and replaced from below. These dead cells are inter-laid with lipids secreted by the stratum granulosum just underneath, which help to make this layer of the skin a waterproof barrier. The stratum corneum’s function is to reduce water loss, repel water, protect deeper layers of the skin from injury, and to repel microbial invasion of the skin. In infants, this layer of the skin is much thinner and more easily disrupted. Nappy rash occurs when there is excessive moisture between two opposing skin surfaces. The key is the excessive moisture. As such, anything that keeps the skin surfaces dry will end the problem. Colloidal Silver As A Nappy Rash Aid Silverlab Healing Cream creates an effective barrier as it has occlusive properties. It is also antibacterial, anti-fungal and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may be used as a preventative or for restoring broken and damaged skin. Natural Health Tips From Jan J Lategan Nappy Rash Symptoms: Redness in the nappy area, but not in the folds and wrinkles.Causes: Inadequate nappy change.Tips: Change the nappy at least 8 times per day, i.e. every 3 hours.Cure: Silverlab Healing Gel or Healing Spray or Healing cream to kill germs and prevent infection. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.94] Excerpts from Jan J. Lategan’s book, “Natural Health Tips”.

Description Athlete’s foot and fungus on skin is a fungal infection that thrives in an environment of warmth and dampness.  It is the most common fungal infection of the skin affecting mostly men. Symptoms The fungi live off the dead skin cells and calluses of the feet, especially on the skin between the toes. Symptoms include inflammation, burning, itching, scaling, cracking and blistering. Causes The fungus that causes athlete’s foot spreads rapidly when antibiotics, drugs or radiation destroy beneficial bacteria.  It is especially prevalent and highly contagious in warm, damp places such as gyms and swimming pool locker rooms. [Prescription for Nutritional Healing [fourth edition] Phyllis A. Balch, CNC Page228] Colloidal Silver As An Athlete’s Foot & Fungus Aid Apply Silverlab Healing Gel or Healing Cream topically as required. It is best to do this after showering or bathing. For best results use the Healing Gel in the morning and the Healing Cream before bed time. This way your feet are not slippery in your shoes during the day. Healthy Lifestyle & Nutritional Tips Dry your skin well after showering or bathing. Spray Silverlab Healing Spray onto your feet after showering in a public shower before putting your socks on. Natural Health Tips From Jan J Lategan Athlete’s Foot Main Cause Most cases are caused by the Candida fungus. Management Apply Silverlab Healing Gel or Healing Cream between toes or spray Silverlab Healing Spray as often as possible.  It targets fungi within 4-6 minutes. Also drink Silverlab Immune Booster as recommended for Candida. Note: It is not as contagious as most people think; you can share a shower. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.7] Foot Odour Prevention The smell-producing bacteria on your feet feed on the animal fat in beef, lamb and pork.  Avoid it; eat chicken. Management Colloidal silver targets the bacteria on your feet on contact within 4-6 minutes. Spray the soles of your feet before you put your socks and shoes on in the morning and let your feet dry before putting on your footwear. Spray again when you get home from work and once more before you go to bed.  Consider spraying the inner soles of your shoes at night. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.33] Foot Warts (Planter Warts) Cause There is a virus in your system. Supplements A sip of Colloidal silver first thing in the morning and last thing at night to kill the viruses.  Apply Colloidal silver gel to warts. Echinacea also kills viruses, 1-2 tablets 6 out of 7 days. Take Immuno Choice to strengthen immunity so the body can fight off the virus. Remark To remove the wart is no lasting solution.  The virus is still in your body and just waiting for an opportunity to form another plantar wart. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.33] Excerpts from Jan J. Lategan’s book, “Natural Health Tips”. Click here to find out where to order the book.

Colloidal silver has been proven very effective for bed sores. It helps to eliminate the bacteria in the wound without damaging newly forming skin cells. Whilst other antiseptics may sting when applied to skin sores due to the fact that it’s killing the surrounding wall tissue cells, colloidal silver does in fact not harm the surrounding cells or tissue. Description, Symptoms & Causes When a bed does not give proper support to the body, pressure points can form. Irritation or rashes on the skin then lead to open wounds or skin sores. Pressure sores are deep ulcers that form when pressure is exerted over bony areas of the body for long periods of time, restricting circulation and leading to the death of cells in the underlying tissue. They are most commonly found on the heels, buttocks, hips, sacrum, and shoulder blades. Anyone who is confined to a bed, chair, or wheelchair due to illness is at risk for developing pressure sores, which can range from mild to severe. An area of reddening skin that doesn’t go away, even after pressure is relieved, is an indication of a developing pressure sore, as is local swelling and/or hardening of the tissue. Severe sores can require surgery for removal of dead tissue. [Prescription for Nutritional Healing [fourth edition] Phyllis A. Balch, CNC – Page 240] Skin Sores Management Using Colloidal Silver Apply topically to the affected area. Silverlab Healing Gel or Healing Cream should be applied liberally to the skin sores as needed (between 2 to 3 times per day). Although it is advisable to immediately target the earliest signs of bed sores, more serious stages of bed sores can also be management with Silverlab Healing Spray by constantly spraying the infected area to target the bacterial growth and to stimulate new cell growth. Healthy Lifestyle & Nutritional Tips Eat a simple, well-balanced diet with plenty of raw, fresh fruits and green and yellow vegetables to ensure a good supply of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Eliminate junk foods, processed foods, and sugar from the diet. Use ground flax-seeds, oat bran, psyllium husks. Fiber absorbs dangerous toxins and helps prevent constipation. Natural Health Tips From Jan J Lategan Bed Sores Spray with Silverlab Healing Spray frequently to kill any germs and allow the wounds to heal. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.8] Gangerene Causes Diabetes 1 Diabetes 2 Poor circulation Supplement Support Half a glass Silverlab Immune Booster at first sign; 5ml every two hours; Kee in mouth for one minute before you swallow; it fights the infection from within. Healing spray every half hour; it kills the germs in the wounds so that they heal quickly. Echinacea (2×2 tablets for 6 out of 7 days) to fight the infection. Ginkgo Biloba, Gotu Kola and Cayenne Pepper improve circulation in the legs. Get medical advice. [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.34] Leg Ulcers Cause Poor circulation especially seniors and diabetics. Lifestyle Avoid red meat, sausages, meat pies, burgers, full fat milk, hard margarines, pan fried foods, ice cream, white bread, pies and cakes. Cure Spray colloidal silver every half hour Ginkgo Biloba Red Pepper Zinc with Vitamin A and B6 Echinacea 5ml colloidal silver on an empty stomach throughout the day [Natural Health Tips 2012 Jan J. Lategan pg.49] Excerpts from Jan J. Lategan’s book, “Natural Health Tips”. 

Silverlab Colloidal Silver for Scrapes, Abrasions, Grazes and Blisters   Silver's Healing Touch: A Miraculous Power in Wound Care   One of the most effective wound treatments in modern medicine has been around for over 2,400 years! When Hippocrates recommended silver for treating wounds in his 400 BC book On Ulcers, he could hardly have imagined that this remedy would still be widely used in 2024. What's even more fascinating is that modern science now backs what he intuitively knew, with the effects of silver in wound healing well documented in contemporary research.   So, why has silver stood the test of time? The answer lies in its near-miraculous, multimodal action in wound care.   Germs Don’t Stand a Chance! Silver’s first line of action in wound care is its potent ability to destroy pathogens. And it's not just limited to bacteria—silver effectively targets viruses and fungi as well, all of which can hinder proper wound healing.   Where the Miracle Begins Research reveals that silver does far more than just fend off harmful microbes. When applied to a wound, it triggers a series of events that significantly boost the likelihood of successful healing.   Enter fibroblasts! These specialised connective tissue cells produce collagen and other essential fibres crucial for tissue repair and recovery. Silver binds to these fibroblasts, encouraging them to revert to a more primitive state, making them more adaptable and efficient in the wound-healing process. This ultimately leads to enhanced collagen production and faster recovery.   The bottom line? With silver, wounds are not only protected from infection but also heal faster with less scarring.   How to Use Silverlab Colloidal Silver for Scrapes, Abrasions or Cuts. ·         Any grit or sand in the abrasion, graze, or scrape must be rinsed or scrubbed out. ·         Rinse or spray the wound as soon as possible with a generous amount of Silverlab Healing Spray. ·         Keep the wound moist by spraying Silverlab Healing Spray or reapplying Silverlab Healing Gel 4–5 times daily. This helps prevent scarring and prevents the wound from cracking when a scab forms. ·         If the wound requires stitches, cover the area with a thick layer of Silverlab Healing Gel and visit your healthcare professional as soon as possible.   Most people who use Silverlab colloidal silver for wound care report little to no scarring. Once the abrasion, graze, or cut has closed, you can begin using Silverlab Healing Cream on the area.   How to Use Silverlab Colloidal Silver for Blisters Should I drain my blister? For most blisters, the general recommendation is to avoid draining them if possible. The skin covering the blister acts as a natural barrier to infection and helps protect the underlying tissue while it heals. Here's what you should do: ·         If the blister is small and not painful, it's usually best to just cover it with a sterile bandage or blister pad and leave it to heal on its own. As an extra measure you can cover the blister with Silverlab Healing Gel. ·         If the blister is large, painful, or likely to pop on its own, you can carefully drain it, but only if you take proper precautions to avoid infection: o   Wash your hands and sterilise a needle (such as with rubbing alcohol). o   Puncture the edge of the blister and gently press the fluid out, keeping the overlying skin intact. o   Apply Silverlab Healing Gel, then cover it with a sterile bandage. ·         Watch for signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, or pus), which might require medical attention.   Letting it heal naturally is often the best approach unless it's causing discomfort or is at risk of bursting.   Why would you want to use a Silverlab Healthcare Product for wounds? Stringent quality control As a world class A-Grade pharmacy and a facility that follows GMP manufacturing processes, Silverlab Healthcare prides itself on the fact that it is registered with the Pharmacy Council of South Africa and is compliant with The Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).   Leading the way Over the last 24 years Silverlab ionic+ Colloidal Silver has become a trusted health companion in many households in South Africa. The company aims to build on this good reputation with ongoing research and development with the continuous introduction of novel product lines.

Silverlab Healthcare -A company always ahead of the curve Even though silver had a well-established track record as an effective medicine for more than 2000 years, few people understood this modality of medicine at the turn of the millennium. It was however in the year 2000 that a visionary South African company started producing the highest purity silver from their factory in Johannesburg. From these humble beginnings Silverlab Healthcare grew rapidly and their production technique was so unique that they had to take steps to secure the intellectual property of their unique processes. A willingness to do research The pioneering team at Silverlab was not satisfied with seeing only results in their sales. They knew that to really understand their own products better, they had to subject them to independent research. Consequently, they embarked on various tests to validate their formulation's safety and efficacy. These studies, undertaken at various accredited local as well as EU laboratories and mostly conducted on cultured cells derived from tissues or tumours, included: Demonstrating anti-viral capability of their ionic Colloidal Silver against SARS-coV-2 and herpes virus, Demonstrating anti-bacterial effect on bacteria that can cause food poisoning and serious lung infections like e-coli, salmonella, cholera, staphylococcus and pseudomonas, Demonstrating an anti-fungal effect on candida, Demonstrating an anti-inflammatory effect on human white blood cells, Proving that ionic Colloidal Silver is effective as a surface disinfectant and hand sanitizer, Demonstrating anti-cancer effect on cell lines of melanoma and Proving that ionic Colloidal Silver is non-toxic to human lung cells. Silver is well-known to be biologically active when it is dispersed into its monoatomic ionic state (Ag+). The predominantly ionic solution, together with the relatively large size of the naturally produced nanoparticle, results in an exceptionally favourable efficacy and safety profile and may also go a long way in allaying any potential concerns associated with the presence of the smaller, intentionally manufactured silver nanoparticles (more specifically, those smaller than 100 nm). These are thought by some to be potentially bio-persistent and carry the added potential risks of toxicity associated with the various additives, such as capping agents, which are used during the manufacturing process. Stringent quality control As a world-class A-Grade pharmacy and GMP-certified manufacturing facility, Silverlab Healthcare prides itself on being registered with both the Pharmacy Council of South Africa and the Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA). Leading the way Over the last 24 years Silverlab ionic Colloidal Silver has become a trusted health companion in many households in South Africa. The company aims to build on this good reputation with ongoing research and development, together with the continuous introduction of novel product lines and expansion into international markets.

Dr Anton explores silver's historical and modern medical uses, it's efficacy against pathogens, safety concerns, and future research potential, advocating for colloidal silver as a versatile, natural health solution for households. During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, frontline clinicians worldwide faced the daunting task of managing the influx of anxious, infected patients. In Zimbabwe, where resources were limited, clinicians sought innovative, low-cost therapies to treat their patients. Little did they anticipate that the combination of inhaled silver and Ivermectin would yield treatment successes surpassing those of well-resourced facilities in developed countries. In this article, I will delve into why experiences like those in Zimbabwe have propelled a 2500-year-old therapy into the spotlight and why I advocate for every household to consider silver as a frontline therapy for multiple conditions. A HISTORICALLY SOUND FOUNDATION Silver is far from a newcomer to the medical scene. Dating back to 400 BC, Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, extolled its virtues in treating ulcers and enhancing wound healing. Ancients, including the Greeks and Romans, embraced silver's antibacterial properties, utilizing silver plates and containers to ward off infections and extend the shelf life of food. Despite some skepticism from medical circles, silver boasts an impressive 137 000 scientific publications, dating as far back as 1818. Notable milestones in silver's medical journey include: 1818: Published case studies describing the successful treatments of patients with general upper respiratory tract infections, tuberculosis, intestinal infections, skin abscesses, and vaginal discharge. 1825: Remarks on the successful treatment of eye infections with silver nitrate in soldiers of the British rifle brigade in 1815. 1829: Silver described as an ideal wound treatment due to multiple mechanisms including an anti-inflammatory effect. 1881: Dr. Carl Credé introduced the use of dilute solutions of silver to treat eye infections in newborn babies, a treatment still in use today. 1908: Silver used to treat syphilis and African sleeping sickness. 1916: Silver administered intravenously to cure postpartum sepsis. 1960s: Silver became universally accepted for the treatment of burn wounds, a practice that remains unchanged. 2006: Described in the journal Biology as ‘the final solution to the coming plagues.’ 2020: Silver-based early treatment protocols for COVID-19 published. UNDERSTANDING SILVER'S POTENTIAL AGAINST PATHOGENS Silver's efficacy against pathogens lies in its multifaceted mechanism of action, making it a formidable adversary against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. By damaging cell membranes and disrupting essential cellular functions, silver renders pathogens powerless. This broad-spectrum antimicrobial action proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic, where silver's immunomodulatory effect in the lungs offered a lifeline by downregulating cytokine expression and mitigating the cytokine storms responsible for severe outcomes. Numerous in-vitro studies have shown that silver has strong activity against SARS-CoV-2 virus (Gupta et al., 2022; Alexandre K, Silverlab Healthcare, 2021; Jeremiah SS et al., 2020). Studies using nebulized silver in hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection showed recovery of pre-illness respiratory function with infection eradicated within 14 days (Nadworny et al., 2023). Electron microscopic image of E. coli. Colloidal silver causes the formation of irregular shaped pits in the bacterial cell membrane of E. coli leading to cell destruction. ADDRESSING SAFETY CONCERNS But what about safety? Will silver cause me to develop the skin condition argyria? Silver is generally considered to be extremely safe. However, consuming approximately 1000 liters of colloidal silver over your lifetime could potentially lead to argyria, a condition that causes the skin to turn blue. Fortunately, the average person who adheres to reasonable dosing guidelines is at virtually no risk of developing this condition. OTHER SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS When silver is produced in a GMP facility that rigorously tests for contaminants, concentration, and particle size, the risk of toxicity is almost negligible. Numerous studies, including research conducted on various cell lines, animal, and human models, support this. I have selected a few notable studies from this extensive database of toxicity research, with a particular focus on some noteworthy South African studies. Safety demonstrated in human lung cell lines: Alexandre K, Malatji KB. Evaluation of Silverlab Healthcare ionic silver in human lung cell lines, 2021. South African high concentration (450ppm) murine toxicity studies: Applications included oral, eye, skin, inhaled, and intravenous with no signs of toxicity (Goosen K. Acute oral toxicity of Silverlab Healthcare liquid in Rattus rattus sp. Sprague Dawley. La-Bio Research, 2019). Oral toxicity study in humans: Using 10ppm and 32ppm solutions produced no signs of toxicity (Munger et al., 2014). Rats exposed to silver in an inhalation chamber: For 6 hours per day for 90 days (accumulative 540 hours) showed no signs of toxicity (Sung et al., 2008). Even at extremely high dosages silver does not disrupt the beneficial bacteria in the intestine (Wilding et al 2016, Williams et al 2015, Hadrup et al 2012) ENSURING SAFE USE OF SILVER How can I ensure that the silver I am using is safe? Be an active consumer. Contact the manufacturer of a particular product and insist on the following: GMP certification of the manufacturing facility. Registration at the Pharmacy Council of South Africa. Laboratory testing of the product ensuring no contamination. Testing which ensures that the concentration of a silver product exceeds at least 15 ppm (parts per million) with a reasonable margin of error (5% or less). Testing which provides proof that particle sizes are over 100nm (nanometers). NOVEL BENEFITS OF SILVER AND NEW FRONTIERS OF RESEARCH The clinical focus of silver has traditionally been on combating infections and treating wounds, areas where the noble metal has shown great success. However, silver possesses numerous other benefits, and the potential for future research in these areas is promising. Some of the applications currently under investigation include: Eczema and dermatitis: Thanks to the anti-inflammatory and immune regulatory effects of silver, its application in these skin conditions offers an exciting and cost-effective solution for numerous patients. Cancer: Silver has demonstrated the ability to reverse certain types of cancer in animal models. While only a few case studies of successful cancer treatments in humans have been published, further research is needed to draw conclusive results. Anti-fungal: Silver exhibits strong action against numerous fungal species, and research is underway to explore its potential applications in the treatment of resistant fungal infections. Anti-helminthic: Silver demonstrates activity against parasites and worms, suggesting its potential inclusion in future treatment strategies. Chronic, treatment-resistant infections: Silver's ability to inhibit quorum sensing and the formation of biofilm positions it uniquely as a treatment modality for various treatment-resistant chronic infections. Conditions such as tuberculosis, cystic fibrosis, multidrug-resistant pneumonia, chronic infected wounds, and chronic sinusitis are among those on this list. Hand sanitiser: With concerns over the toxicity of certain sanitizers, there is a demand for safer yet effective products. Silver's highly effective action against viruses and bacteria makes it a viable option as a hand sanitiser, particularly for children. Gastrointestinal: Case reports have demonstrated resolution of peptic ulcers within six weeks with the use of silver. Additionally, silver exhibits exceptional activity against foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli. Silver could play a major role in the treatment of chronic sinus infections due to its effect against bacterial biofilm formation. Silver particles were reported to exhibit potent in vitro antifungal activity against over 216 different strains of ocular fungal pathogens. Photo Credit Wikipedia, Conjunctivitis by Eddie314 EMPOWERING FAMILIES WITH COLLOIDAL SILVER For families seeking cost-effective health solutions, colloidal silver offers a versatile and safe option. When sourced responsibly, colloidal silver can be applied orally, topically, or via nebulization to treat various skin conditions and infections, including respiratory tract infections, wounds, eye infections, ear infections, and infections of the gastrointestinal tract and sinuses. It is important to note that silver is also safe to take concurrently with antibiotics, with only patients using tetracyclines, quinolones, penicillamine, and warfarin needing to separate the silver dose by 2-3 hours. IN CLOSING I invite readers to engage their family physicians to attend CPD-accredited training courses on the medicinal use of silver. Together, we can harness the power of silver to promote health and wellness in communities worldwide. Disclaimer: The advice provided in this article does not replace a visit to your health practitioner. Please use any of the listed recommendations under the auspices of your treating doctor. Editor's note: Colloidal silver refers to microscopic particles of silver held in suspension and is produced by an electro-colloidal/non-chemical method where the silver particles and water have been colloided, i.e. dispersed within and bound to each other by an electric current. The usual concentration is between 3 and 15 parts per million. There should be no stabiliser or other elements in the product. This article was sponsored by Silverlab. Silver is not a heavy metal but a transitional metal, and while it is non-toxic to humans, it is extremely toxic to moulds, fungi, bacteria, protozoa and viruses. See Natural Medicine World our article on Various Natural Antibiotics Explored.  

One of modern medicine's most effective wound treatments has been around for over 2,400 years! When Hippocrates recommended silver for treating wounds in his 400 BC book On Ulcers, he could hardly have imagined that this remedy would still be widely used in 2024. Even more fascinating is that modern science now backs what he intuitively knew, with the effects of silver in wound healing well documented in contemporary research.  So, why has silver stood the test of time? The answer lies in its near-miraculous, multimodal action in wound care.  Germs Don’t Stand a Chance! Silver’s first line of action in wound care is its potent ability to destroy pathogens. And it’s not just limited to bacteria—silver effectively targets viruses and fungi as well, all of which can hinder proper wound healing. Where the Miracle Begins Research reveals that silver does far more than fend off harmful microbes. When applied to a wound, it triggers a series of events that significantly boost the likelihood of successful healing. Enter fibroblasts! These specialized connective tissue cells produce collagen and other essential fibers crucial for tissue repair and recovery. Silver binds to these fibroblasts, encouraging them to revert to a more primitive state, making them more adaptable and efficient in the wound healing process. This ultimately leads to enhanced collagen production and faster recovery. The bottom line? With silver, wounds are not only protected from infection but also heal faster with less scarring.    Why would you want to use a Silverlab Healthcare Product for wounds?  Stringent quality control As a world class A-Grade pharmacy and GMP certified manufacturing facility, Silverlab Healthcare prides itself on the fact that it is registered with the Pharmacy Council of South Africa and is compliant with The Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).  Leading the way Over the last 24 years Silverlab ionic+ Colloidal Silver has become a trusted health companion in many households in South Africa. The company aims to build on this good reputation with ongoing research and development with the continuous introduction of novel product lines.  

Struggling with acne, boils, or pimples? Discover how Silverlab can help you achieve clearer, healthier skin. Learn about the causes of acne and explore natural remedies, including colloidal silver products and lifestyle tips, to fight those pesky breakouts. Read more to uncover the secrets to a radiant complexion!

Throughout history, avocado oil (persea americana/persea gratissima) has been used for its extraordinary health benefits and healing properties. It has been a popular ingredient in the pharmaceutical industry and has resurfaced in the cosmetic industry, becoming increasingly recognized for its therapeutic impact on skin health and skin restoration.  Why your skin is important  Covering an area around two square meters, the skin is the largest organ of the body and, usually, the most neglected! The skin has many important functions, including:   Protection from microbes and elements.  Helps to regulate body temperature   Permits the sensation of heat, cold, and touch   Avocado oil can penetrate through the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), deep into the second layer called the dermis, making it the ideal skin remedy for this important organ.   How is this remarkable fruit turned into golden oil?  The secret of the fruit’s success is the oil. Avocado oil is extracted from the pulp, pips, and skin of the fruit and is highly resistant to oxidation. In other words, it is a stable oil which does not easily lose its beneficial properties. The unrefined, cold-pressed, extra virgin oil is best because it retains the nutrients.  What the latest scientific reviews say about the topical benefits of avocado oil. The benefits of avocado oil in skin health are numerous, and include the following top 10: Reduces chances of scarring through accelerated cell regeneration and wound healing Helps eliminate and repel microbial infections from facial and general body skin Reduces inflammation Combats UV damage and improves skin health through its antioxidant properties Forms a protective skin barrier Skin health is enhanced through chlorophyll, a natural source of super healthy magnesium that helps remove heavy metals from the body Boosts your skin’s ability to generate more and stronger cells The dermis easily absorbs the primary skin-feeding nutrients vitamin E, potassium, and lecithin providing energy for growing healthy new skin and fortifying existing cells It nourishes hair Increases collagen production in the skin What it can do for your skin: Used as a moisturizer, it will enrich dry, damaged, or chapped skin.Avocado oil’s high concentration of anti-inflammatory oleic acid means it can be applied topically to ease discomfort caused by many skin conditions including, but not limited to, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, skin rashes, skin infections, dandruff, cracked heels, keratosis pilaris, insect bites and stings, sunburn, and wounds. The proof is in the pudding or, shall we say, in the fruit This amazing natural therapy has been extensively researched. The International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018, reviewed the anti-Inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils, including avocado oil, and concluded the following: “It is an excellent source of enrichment for dry, damaged, or chapped skin. Research has been conducted on the effect of topical administration of avocado fruit extract on wound models in rats, revealing faster wound healing. The topical application of avocado oil in rats has also been shown to increase collagen production and decrease the numbers of inflammatory cells.” A tip before applying the oil Not everyone reacts similarly to plant oils or any new topical treatment for that matter. Always test a drop or two on a small area of skin before applying to larger areas of the body. The science of combining 8 Avocado oil is often combined with other therapeutic remedies.  The idea is that multiple ingredients, working by means of different pathways of action, can lead to even greater therapeutic outcome. For example, with great expertise and scientific knowledge, Silverlab Healthcare has incorporated a very high percentage of avocado oil in its Healing Cream (18%) and Sport Chafing Repair cream (12%). The results have been excellent, producing a wide spectrum of skin health benefits from softer, smoother skin to faster healing.