Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Purified silver has been used historically and continues to be used as an antimicrobial agent, particularly in wound care. The rationale for its use in treating boils (which are skin abscesses commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus) is based on its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Silver ions disrupt bacterial cell walls, proteins, and DNA, leading to bacterial death. In modern medicine, silver sulfadiazine cream and silver-impregnated dressings are employed to prevent or treat infections in burns and ulcers, and there is some evidence supporting their utility in certain wound types. However, direct clinical trial evidence specifically for the use of purified silver in treating boils is limited. Most studies focus on chronic wounds, burns, or ulcers rather than acute abscesses like boils. While silver-based preparations can reduce bacterial load, there is insufficient high-quality evidence to support their routine use over standard treatments (such as incision and drainage, and antibiotics) for boils. Furthermore, the use of colloidal or ionic silver taken orally or applied topically without medical supervision is not recommended due to potential toxicity (e.g., argyria) and lack of efficacy data. In summary, silver has a scientific basis for its antimicrobial properties, and limited evidence for topical use in wound care, but its specific role in treating boils is not well substantiated by robust clinical research.

More about purified silver
More about Boils

Other ingredients used for Boils

Other health conditions supported by purified silver

Products containing purified silver

Designs For Health Silvercillin™ Liquid
Designs For Health Silvercillin™ Spray