When using dietary supplements, consumers must study individual nutrients and understand the supplement industry at large. This allows them to gain the knowledge necessary to make wise choices. There is no supplement - or substance, for that matter - that is completely safe. (Any vitamin, mineral, or food taken in excessive amounts can cause harm. This is true for water, for over the counter medications like aspirin, and for foods like french fries.) Using the correct colloidal silver dosage can unlock this mineral's benefits.

Experts say that ionic and protein formulas are not as desirable as the particulate suspension that is truly colloidal silver. The suspensions vary in strength, with the 'active ingredient' measured in parts per million. Reputable companies voluntarily subject their products to third party testing for purity, truth in labeling, and potency.

Actually, this mineral is not truly a nutrient. No requirement for it has been established, and no deficiency results from not taking it. However, it has been known to have a natural antibiotic effect for centuries. Millions take it all over the world, and it is widely used as a water purifier by individuals and municipalities.

The Silver Safety Committee is an organization dedicated to helping consumers learn about silver, the correct dosage for short or long term use, and the proper way to take this mineral. The interactive tool on their website uses a consumer's body weight and the ppm strength of a formula to determine the correct number of drops to take daily. The 'safe' level set by the US EPA is much higher than most recommended doses.

Products vary from 5 ppm to 500 ppm, so careful reading of the manufacturer's recommendations is essential. Some contain other substances, while others provide only the mineral in a carrier liquid. Most formulas are designed for oral use, but others are topical or delivered by other methods.

Consumers should be wary of anecdotal testimonials or extreme dosage recommendations. Not everyone who gives health advice is experienced and knowledgeable. There is a lot of direction from licensed health professionals and those who have conducted controlled studies, and this sort of advice is more to be trusted.

For example, an online source may recommend one tablespoon of 5 ppm solution daily for resistance to illness. Most products are sold in 10 ppm strength, so the same result is achieved by halving the amount. A saturation dose - when the level in the body is all the system can absorb and use - should not be exceeded; if more is taken, rashes or skin irritations may result. These clear up rapidly when the daily intake is reduced slightly.

Taking the correct dose is key to success with this beneficial mineral. People treat eye infections, skin problems, fungus infections, burns, acne, and staph with it. Many claim it is effective against SARS, MRSA, the 'bird flu', and Ebola. Millions feel that their first aid kit or home medicine cabinet is incomplete without it.