Colloidal silver is a substance made of de-ionized, distilled 
water containing small clusters of silver atoms. Silver has been 
used for hundreds of years to fight germs and bacteria. At one 
time it was believed that germs could not be transmitted by way 
of a silver cup and often silver coins were placed in milk to 
prolong its freshness. While some of these anecdotes may indeed 
have been nothing more than folklore, it has since been proven 
that silver does in fact possess some antibiotic and anti-
bacterial tendencies.

This powerful antibiotic reportedly acts as a catalyst to hinder 
the enzyme that is needed for bacteria, viruses and fungi to 
metabolize oxygen. The result of this process is the suffocation 
and destruction of organisms that cause many health problems, 
including toenail fungus. One of the most commanding arguments 
for the use of colloidal silver to fight infections is that, 
unlike most other antibiotic medications, bacteria and viruses 
seem unable to become resistant to the treatment. It is these 
important characteristics that make colloidal silver a 
meaningful, all natural alternative to prescription medication 
designed to treat toenail fungus.

Also referred to as onychomycosis, toenail fungus is an infection 
that initially changes the toenail over time, with a dulling of 
the nail's natural shine. The condition then progresses by 
developing a light colored spot under the tip of the toenail. If 
left untreated, this fungus will continue to spread until the 
entire toenail becomes thick and yellow. Often the edges of the 
toenail will become brittle and crumble.  The infection may also 
spread to other toe nails.

If the fungus is not destroyed, the condition will worsen and 
eventually the toenail will have a distorted shape, the color may 
become green, brown, or black, and the toes may begin to emit a 
foul odor. At this point the entire toenail may disconnect from 
the toe, possibly causing severe pain.

There are many pharmaceutical treatments available to eradicate 
the fungus that causes toenail infection, but because of the side 
effects many people choose to accept the presence of this 
unnecessary condition. One of the natural ways to fight toenail 
fungus is by treating it with liquid colloidal silver. This type 
of silver may be purchased at many health food stores or through 
the mail. It typically comes in a two or four ounce bottle with 
a pump sprayer or dropper for application. It may be ingested 
according to the manufacturer's instructions. For toenail fungus, 
it is best to apply the solution directly to the affected area 
after it has been gently washed and thoroughly dried.  Simply 
apply with a swab or spray on the toenail fungus two to three 
times per day.

When treating your toenail fungus, the success of the treatment 
is dependent upon your willingness to continually treat the 
fungus as directed and to continue your chosen course of therapy 
for the recommended amount of time. Curing oneself of toenail 
fungus can be a lengthy process if not done correctly due to the 
fact even after the fungus has died and the toenail begins to 
clear, the treatment must continue until the infected portion of 
the toenail has completely grown out. Unfortunately, because the 
cure for toenail fungus can take 3-6 six months, many people 
choose to live with it rather than take measures to combat it. 
Although there are no known side effects to colloidal silver 
treatment when used correctly, some researchers have found that 
heavy, prolonged use may result in a condition known as "Argyra." 
This condition manifests as a graying of the skin in areas where 
the folds are quite pronounced, as in the knuckles and elbows. 
Most experts agree, however, that due to the microscopic size of 
the silver in a colloidal state, this condition is a near 
impossibility when the treatment is given as directed.  Colloids 
are tiny particles suspended in water that possess a positive 
electric charge.   It should also be noted that this condition 
only occurs with long term internal ingestion of colloidal 
silver. 

Preventing any ailment is typically much easier than curing it 
and the best way to maintain good health and an immune system 
that can successfully fight off potentially harmful infections, 
such as toenail fungus, is to give your body the fuel it needs to 
function properly. By making wise food choices and giving your 
body necessary nutrients, you are taking an important first step 
to ensuring your own good health. You can also prevent toenail 
fungus by keeping toenails clean and trimmed.

If you typically have your toenails done at a salon, be sure 
that it is a reputable one that understands the importance of 
sterilizing all manicure equipment. It also may be necessary to 
discontinue using toenail polish as it can trap moisture under 
the polish and encourage the growth of fungus. If you have 
exceptionally sweaty feet, give them ample time to dry out during 
the day, if possible. Additionally, wearing socks that allow the 
feet to breathe, such as those made from natural fibers such as 
cotton, will destroy the moist warm environment in which toenail 
fungus thrives. 

Dr. Jonathan N. Group, B.S., R.D., D.C. is a Doctor of 
Chiropractic, Registered Dietitian and Independent Research 
Scientist. He has over 15 years of educational and research 
experience in health care focusing in clinical nutrition, 
alternative medicine, chiropractic, fitness, health and wellness. 
Dr. Group is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Fungus 
Research, L.L.C. and heads the research and development team 
dedicated to producing advanced, new anti-fungal and 
anti-microbial products. http://www.nail-fungus-toenail.com