CDL and colloidal silver are different chemical systems. Chlorine dioxide is a reactive oxidising agent; colloidal silver products contain finely dispersed silver. For neither does activity against microorganisms outside the body establish safe internal self-treatment.
The differences at a glance
| Topic | CDL | Colloidal silver |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Chlorine dioxide in solution | Silver in finely dispersed form |
| Important risks when swallowed | These include vomiting, diarrhoea and dehydration | These include tissue deposition and impaired medicine absorption |
| Healing claims | Technical disinfection does not establish an internal therapy | Laboratory antimicrobial activity does not establish an internal therapy |
Do not choose a supposedly better cure
Suspected infection or persistent symptoms need an appropriate diagnosis. Neither a PPM figure, purity advertising nor an experience report justifies treating infections, cancer or chronic illnesses. Silver is not a necessary nutrient when taken orally.
Check intended purpose and application separately
A particular disinfection procedure or specific medical wound product is not equivalent to drinking an arbitrary solution. Follow the specific label and safety data sheet. Do not mix CDL with acids or other chemicals yourself, and do not nebulise it.
After accidental ingestion
Contact a poison information service or medical help and have the product, concentration and amount ready. Seek emergency help immediately for breathing difficulty, circulatory problems or severe symptoms. Do not make further self-directed attempts to intensify a supposed effect.
Frequently asked questions
Is a low concentration automatically harmless?
No. The substance, route of contact and amount absorbed also matter.
Can silver permanently discolour the skin?
Deposition in the body can cause a usually permanent bluish-grey discolouration called argyria.
