For centuries or so, silver has been a sign of richness, grace, and, moreover, healing. It is often worn on the wrists, fingers, or hanging around the neck as a fashion accessory but does it only serve such purposes? Many cultures believe that wearing silver jewelry can promote one’s health, both for the body and the mind. This blog will examine the potential health benefits along with old beliefs and scientific perspectives about silver.
The History of Silver as a Healing Metal
The silver earned a significant place in ancient cultures for its claimed healing properties, having been used by Greek and Roman cultures in early history for its supposed ability to keep the water fresh and to secure food from spoilage. Indeed, early doctors in Egypt and Greece went so far as to recommend the use of the metal for treating wounds and against infection resulting in a continued medical use of silver.
Silver was used since it was believed to have cooling and anti-inflammatory properties in traditional practices like Ayurveda and ancient Chinese medicine. Even in Ayurveda, “Rajat Bhasma” (calcined silver ash) was used in some treatments to balance internal energies.
Silver in Modern Medicine
In fact, silver is not only an ancient medicine, but is also still used in modern medical conditions because of its antimicrobial properties. Silver sulfadiazine, a topical cream that is used commonly to prevent infection in burns, is applied to the burned area. Bandages or dressings made with silver-infused materials are often found in hospitals because these should also speed wound healing. In addition, there are research studies that are currently being conducted on the use of silver nanoparticles in the antibacterials that could be used for coatings onto medical devices and instruments.
So, if silver can help heal externally, what about the health benefits from simply wearing it?
Potential Health Benefits of Wearing Silver
While scientific evidence around wearing silver specifically for health benefits is limited, here are some of the purported benefits that many swear by:
1. Anti-Anxiety and Stress Relief
Wearing silver jewelry may help people feel more grounded, reduce anxiety, and promote calmness. This is largely based on the belief that silver can help harmonize the body’s natural balance, similar to how some believe copper helps align bodily energies. Although there’s no scientific backing for silver’s direct impact on stress reduction, wearing any meaningful jewelry can offer comfort and potentially reduce anxiety by association.
2. Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Effects
Silver’s use as an antibacterial agent in the medical field has led some to believe that wearing silver jewelry might also provide similar benefits. When silver is in direct contact with the skin, it could potentially help with minor skin infections and improve skin health in specific cases. Some wearers feel their silver jewelry can help keep their skin clear of blemishes or small infections. However, it’s important to note that the jewelry form of silver is different from the medicinal silver used in bandages and creams.
3. Improved Energy Levels and Circulation
Some wearers of silver claim that it boosts their energy levels and improves circulation. The theory is that silver may regulate the body’s internal temperature and blood flow, helping wearers feel more energized throughout the day. Though this effect hasn’t been confirmed scientifically, silver jewelry’s cool nature may have a refreshing and energizing effect on the wearer.
4. Enhanced Mood and Reduced Inflammation
According to traditional beliefs, silver has cooling properties that may help reduce internal inflammation. In Ayurvedic practice, inflammation is associated with an imbalance in bodily energies. Silver is thought to balance these energies, contributing to better mood and overall emotional well-being. Although there isn’t concrete evidence for silver’s anti-inflammatory properties in wearable form, people who feel better or less inflamed after wearing silver may find comfort in their jewelry.
5. Electromagnetic Protection
Many people today are concerned with the growing prevalence of electronic devices and electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Some believe that silver, being a conductive metal, can shield the body from excessive exposure to EMFs. Silver fabrics and garments, known as “silver shielding clothing,” are popular for this reason, with wearers claiming they reduce fatigue and EMF sensitivity. Although wearing silver jewelry is unlikely to shield from EMFs, silver-lined garments may offer a similar benefit.
The Science Behind Silver’s Conductivity
One scientifically proven property of silver is its conductivity, which might have some indirect benefits. Silver is one of the best conductors of heat and electricity, which is why it’s frequently used in electronics. While this may not directly impact health, the high conductivity of silver can theoretically assist in better energy transfer within the body.
Silver’s conductive properties are said to harmonize the body’s natural electrical impulses. When wearing silver, the idea is that it may enhance the body’s natural flow of energy, potentially leading to improved well-being and vitality. However, these benefits are still largely anecdotal and need more concrete scientific validation.
Is There a Downside to Wearing Silver?
While silver is largely safe for most people, there are some potential drawbacks:
- Allergic Reactions: A small percentage of people may experience a skin allergy to silver, particularly if it’s mixed with nickel or other metals.
- Tarnishing: Silver can tarnish over time, especially when exposed to moisture or certain chemicals. Tarnished silver can potentially discolor the skin, though it’s harmless and easily reversible.
- Hypoallergenic Claims: Silver in its pure form (99.9%) is typically hypoallergenic, but jewelry is often an alloy with other metals. Some lower-quality silver jewelry may cause irritation if it contains nickel.
Choosing the Right Silver for Health
If you’re interested in experiencing potential health benefits from silver, here are some tips on choosing the right type:
- Opt for Pure or Sterling Silver: Sterling silver, which is 92.5% pure, is often a good choice for wearers sensitive to nickel. Pure silver (99.9%) is ideal if you’re seeking the highest quality and fewer skin reactions.
- Consider Wearing Silver Directly on the Skin: To maximize potential benefits, wear your silver jewelry so that it directly touches the skin.
- Choose Meaningful Pieces: Consider jewelry with personal significance or positive energy. Wearing pieces that carry meaning can improve your mood and emotional well-being.
My Thoughts: Is Silver Really Good for Your Health?
Although the advantages to health from silver may still be largely anecdotal, one cannot cast aside the strong psychological and cultural impressions made by this metal over the millennia. Whether or not silver has the power to dose energies or decrease inflammatory reactions, the wearing of something finely made of silver with a history of healing belief may somehow uplift both the mood and the outlook of the self-wearing human being.
Adorning oneself with silver for health reasons is a personal decision. By all means, wear it if it gives you joy with the promise silvers had for healing and the comfort in their symbolism. Whether you wear it because of its fashionable attraction or because you believe in its age-old power of healing, it is sure to add a bit of glamor and wellness to your routine.
