Colloidal silver is a product with a potent effect against pathogenic micro-organisms. It is used as a healing agent, antiseptic, and a deodorant. For mass production, there are commercially available generators, however on a smaller scale, they can be created by an individual with easily available products.

A drinkable form of the colloidal solution is made by diffusing the silver ions in water by passing a dc electric current through two silver electrodes dipped inside water. The simplest requirements include a battery project case with battery holders and clip, standard 4 mm banana plugs used on most testing equipment, matching sockets, an LED to indicate the current flow, and a resistor to allow the desired current. The resistors can range from 1K to 10K, allowing a current of 1mA to 10mA. The most important component is the 3mm silver wire used to generate high-quality silver in the suspension. This is free from impurities, unlike the sterling silver.

The apparatus is assembled completely and tested for the flow of proper current. The silver wires are kept immersed in water. The generation of the silver solution is an instant process. Since silver is a light-sensitive metal, the entire process is conducted in a dimly lit room, preferably a dark room. Once the process is complete, the wires are cleaned with soft paper towels to keep them scratch free. Care is taken to see that the deposits of silver oxide are removed after each use.

Evaluation of the purity of the prepared colloidal solution can be done by examining the back-scatter of a laser beam. The beam is directed to pass through the solution and viewed at an angle of 15o. This is the Tyndall or the Raleigh effect. However, it is considered a less reliable method compared to microbiological tests. The preparation is stored in non-conductive, dark, opaque, plastic containers and never in metal containers.

Precautions for making silver colloid include the use of distilled water and fine-quality silver electrodes/wires. Tap water is suitable for topical sprays or for use in plants. Saline is added to improve the conductivity, however it is advisable to refrain from using salt as it affects the quality. A pinch of baking soda is used for the generation of the first set; subsequently a small sample of the silver colloid is used as a starter to initiate the conductivity.

Generation of a silver colloid is a fairly simple process. To make matters easier, numerous silver colloid generator kits are available on the market.