What is silica?
Silica, or silicon dioxide (SiO₂), is a mineral naturally present in the human body, particularly in bones, skin, hair, nails and connective tissue. This trace element is essential for joint health, cell regeneration and skin beauty.
Silica is found in certain foods, such as wholegrain cereals, green vegetables and mineral water, but also in the form of dietary supplements and external gels for a remineralizing effect.
What are the benefits of silica?
Silica plays a key role in a number of biological functions, providing benefits for :
How to use silica
Silica can be supplied to the body through the diet, dietary supplements or applied externally.
Silica-rich foods
Silicon-rich mineral waters → Some waters contain high levels of bioavailable silica.
Green vegetables and wholegrain cereals → Parsnips, leeks, nettles, millet, oats.
Bamboo tabashir and horsetail → Medicinal plants particularly rich in organic silica.
Silica-based food supplements
Liquid organic silica → Highly assimilable form, ideal for remineralizing treatments.
Silica capsules or powder → Convenient for daily intake.
Recommended dosage:
Silica drinking solution: 10 to 30 ml per day, as a 3- to 6-week course of treatment.
Silica capsules: 1 to 2 capsules per day, as needed.
Silica gel for external use
For joint and muscle pain → Apply locally to painful areas.
For wound healing → Accelerates skin regeneration.
For hair and skin care → Improves hair and skin quality.
Is silica beneficial for bones and joints?
Yes, silica is a fundamental element for bone strength:
Stimulates collagen production, essential for cartilage and connective tissue.
Helps fix calcium in bones, thus preventing osteoporosis.
Improves joint flexibility, reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis.
It is often combined with calcium, magnesium and vitamin D supplements for better assimilation.
Does silica help strengthen hair and nails?
Yes, thanks to its role in collagen and keratin synthesis, silica :
Strengthens the hair fiber, preventing hair loss and breakage.
Accelerates hair growth, adding volume and shine.
Strengthens fragile nails, preventing breakage and splitting.
It is often included in beauty formulas in the form of capsules, serums and hair care products.
Is silica a natural anti-aging agent?
Yes, silica is an excellent anti-aging ally:
Improves skin elasticity and firmness.
Stimulates collagen production, delaying the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Protects against oxidative stress, slowing skin aging.
It is often used in natural cosmetics and anti-aging treatments.
What's the difference between mineral and organic silica?
Mineral silica → Present in rocks, water and certain plants, not easily assimilated by the body.
Organic silica → Bioavailable form derived from plants such as horsetail and bamboo, better absorbed by the body.
Organic silica is therefore more effective for bone, skin and hair health.
Where can I buy quality silica?
Silica-based products are available in :
Pharmacies and parapharmacies → Capsules, oral solutions and external gels.
Organic and health food stores → Horsetail-, bamboo- or nettle-based supplements.
Boutiques specializing in phytotherapy → Liquid organic silica and concentrated extracts.
Natural cosmetics sites → Silica-enriched serums and gels for skin and hair.
Choose organic, additive-free products to ensure excellent absorption.
Does silica have any contraindications?
Although beneficial, silica should be used with caution in certain cases:
Avoid in cases of renal insufficiency, as it can overload the kidneys.
Do not exceed recommended doses, to avoid excessive accumulation in the body.
Seek medical advice if on anticoagulant therapy, as it may interfere with blood coagulation.
Prolonged use of powdered mineral silica can be irritating to the lungs → Handle with care.
The benefits of silica can be fully enjoyed if consumption is controlled and adapted to requirements.
