The new gold standard in health is silver

MANCHESTER, England, June 1 (UPI) -- A British scientist says the use of silver in healthcare and hygiene is increasing, frequently because of a shortage of new antibiotics.

A research review conducted by Professor Valerie Edwards-Jones of Manchester Metropolitan University found advances in technology, particularly 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."

She said one of silver's most important benefits is its low allergenic properties. Surgeons using silver treated bandages in wound care, including treatment of severe burns, do so because of the low incidence of irritation and allergy that patients often suffer, she said.

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.