According to a British scientist, the use of silver in healthcare and hygiene is increasing. One reason is because of a shortage of the newer antibiotics.
Professor Valerie Edwards-Jones of Manchester Metropolitan University conducted a research review and found that advances in technology, especailly in nano-technology, are allowing scientists to increasingly apply silver’s benefits in more areas.
“In simple terms, silver ions are highly effective and eliminate bacteria rapidly,” said Edwards-Jones. “Silver ions enter the bacterial cell where they are able to deactivate important functions inside. This helps to shut down the bacteria’s ability to reproduce which, depending on the type of bacteria, prevents the spread of infection or the development of odor.”
The Professor noted silver’s low allergenic properites is one of its’ most important benefits. Because of the low incidence of irritation and allergy with silver, surgeons are using silver treated bandages in wound care, including treatment of severe burns.
Edwards-Jones also said for the first time ever in Europe, silver is being used in a new deodorant. The silver ions neutralize the bacteria that cause body odor, stopping it before it begins.
The research review is reported in the journal Letters of Applied Microbiology.
