From Dr. James' Teachings
Next to oxygen, silicon is the most prevalent element on Earth. The mineral silicon makes up 28.9% of the Earth's crust, with quartz being the most commonly occurring form. Within the human body, this naturally occurring mineral is found in the form of silica, a natural compound made of silicon and oxygen. All connective tissue cells in the body, as well as the nails, hair, and skin, contain silica. Silica plays an active role in helping tissues maintain their firmness and strength, and it is important in bone formation and remineralization. Silica molecules also enhance the body's ability to increase the water absorption of essential proteins, acting as a binding agent. By binding calcium, protein, and water molecules together, silica helps strengthen and revitalize the skin, hair, and nails.
Foods that are naturally rich in silica are often grown in mineral-rich soils. Silica is an essential mineral that many people are not getting in adequate amounts because today's soils have become depleted of important minerals, resulting in lower amounts of silica in many foods. As we age, our body's supply of silica also becomes depleted, contributing to wrinkled, dry skin, dull, lackluster hair, and brittle nails. To help minimize these effects, it is important to replenish the body's silica stores through foods grown in mineral-rich soil and, when appropriate, silica supplementation.
Many people have reported relief from arthritis symptoms while taking silica. Joint and neck discomfort, decreased flexibility, and swelling of the fingers and hands have improved for many individuals using this mineral supplement. Some people have also reported improvement in symptoms of indigestion when supplying the body with silica.
Silica is essential for healthy connective tissue strength and for maintaining a youthful bounce as we age. It has traditionally been used to help support the body's natural defenses against joint and cartilage inflammation and deterioration, dry skin, brittle nails, thinning hair, dandruff, burns (including sunburn), vertigo, and tooth and gum loss. It also supports the structural (bone), cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and immune systems. Silica-containing lotion may help enhance the skin's elasticity and moisture. Benefits may be experienced whether silica is taken internally or applied externally. There are no known side effects or adverse reactions associated with taking silica alongside prescription medications or other nutritional supplements.
From My Own Practice
Silica is phenomenal for bone spurs. Just totally eliminating bone spurs! That has been my experience, both personally and clinically.
When I was in my mid-twenties, I had a favorite pair of shoes. The sole on one of them had cracked, but I loved those shoes so much that I kept wearing them anyway. Over time, every step caused that cracked sole to pinch the bottom of my foot. I never consciously put the two together. I just noticed that one spot on the bottom of my foot was becoming increasingly sore. Eventually, it hurt even when I was barefoot or if I simply pressed on that area.
I mentioned it to Dad, and after hearing my description, he told me he thought I had developed a bone spur. His recommendation was simple: take two Silica DE each day. So I did. Before long, the soreness was completely gone, and it has never returned. That experience made me a believer.
Since then, I have recommended Silica DE to many clients with similar experiences, and I have seen it help time and time again. It is also one of my favorite supplements for supporting healthy teeth, hair, skin, fingernails, and toenails. Honestly, I find myself recommending Silica DE so often that sometimes I wonder... what isn't silica good for?
Dosage Guide
The directions on the bottle provide a general recommendation. In my own practice, I view those amounts as a starting point, not a limit. During times of greater discomfort, I adjust the amount and frequency according to the level of support the body seems to need.
A personal note for my clients: If we've worked together recently, please follow the recommendations I gave you during your consultation. They were personalized to your individual health needs, goals, and circumstances and may differ from the general dosage suggestions provided here or on the bottle.
Support Needed
Maintenance
Mild
Moderate
Intensive
Common Amount
1 capsule daily
1 capsule twice daily
1 capsules three times daily
2 capsules twice daily
Once you begin noticing improvement, you can usually reduce to the lowest amount that continues to provide the support you need.
Traditional Uses of Silica DE
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Supports healthy connective tissues, including ligaments, tendons, cartilage, bones, skin, hair, and nails.
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Traditionally used to support healthy collagen formation and normal bone mineralization.
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Promotes healthy skin elasticity and hydration.
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Supports strong teeth, healthy gums, hair, fingernails, and toenails.
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Traditionally used to support joint comfort, cartilage health, and flexibility.
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Supports cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and immune system health.
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Traditionally used to support the body's natural healing processes and tissue repair.
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Traditionally recommended for dry skin, brittle nails, thinning hair, minor burns (including sunburn), and occasional dizziness or vertigo.