Silver nasal spray is a solution containing ionic silver or silver nanoparticles that is sprayed into the nasal passages. It has gained popularity in recent years as a complementary therapy for boosting immunity and fighting infection. But how exactly does this unique spray work?
Silver itself has natural antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. When silver particles are suspended in a liquid solution, the silver ions become bioavailable. This means they are able to effectively attack foreign pathogens. Most microbes are negatively charged, while silver ions have a positive charge. This creates an electromagnetic attraction between the silver and the germ.
The silver ions bind to and deform the bacteria or virus’ cell membranes. This disables their ability to replicate and infect you. The silver ions also block germs from using your cells to create the proteins they need to thrive. In addition, silver helps minimize inflammation, allowing your body to heal more quickly.
When silver nasal spray is administered correctly, you inhale microscopic silver particles into the nasal cavity and sinuses. This allows the silver to work directly on any pathogens accumulating in your nasal passages, sinus cavities, throat, and upper airways.
Silver nasal spray is believed to be effective at combating bacteria like strep, staph, and E. coli that can cause sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, colds, and more. The antiviral properties help fight rhinovirus, coronavirus, influenza, adenovirus, and RSV. Silver also reduces tissue inflammation associated with infections or allergies.
Using silver nasal spray provides concentrated antimicrobial protection right where you need it most – directly on the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and sinuses. Most inhaled particles will remain in the respiratory tract rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream, which minimizes systemic exposure or side effects.
When sprayed into the nostrils, the positively charged silver ions adhere to the negatively charged mucous membranes. This allows the silver particles to penetrate deep into the crevices of the nasal cavity and sinus openings. However, excessive use can lead to a condition called argyria where the skin turns blue-gray.
The antimicrobial action begins immediately on contact and offers up to eight hours of continuous bacterial and viral protection. The micro silver particles continue to attack pathogens as the solution drains down through the nasal passages into the throat and eventually down into the stomach.
Swallowing the silver solution provides additional immune benefits by attacking foreign invaders in the gastrointestinal tract. However, most of the silver will ultimately become bound to proteins in the stomach and rendered inactive before being passed through the stool.
For maximum effectiveness, tilt your head back slightly and administer 2-4 sprays per nostril up to 4 times per day. To improve delivery into the sinuses, alternate spraying each side while turned towards that side. This allows the mist to penetrate and coat each nasal passage fully.
Silver nasal spray is gentle enough for daily use for maintenance immune support. During acute illness like a sinus infection or cold, more frequent dosing provides concentrated relief right at the source. Just make sure not to exceed the manufacturer’s recommended daily dosage.
While considered very safe at recommended doses, excessive intake can accumulate over time and lead to argyria. Therefore, long term uninterrupted use is not recommended. Speak with your health provider before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any other silver products or supplements.
Overall, silver nasal spray offers a simple and effective way to harness the antimicrobial power of silver nanoparticles and deliver them directly to the most common sites of infection. A quick spritz provides on-the-spot immune defense against invading pathogens. With routine use, silver nasal spray helps inhibit microbial growth and prevent recurrent illness.