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Quest Vitamins LTD,
8 Venture Way,
Aston Science Park,
Birmingham,
B7 4AP.

Tel: 0121 359 0056
Fax: 0121 359 0313
Email: info@questvitamins.co.uk
Registered in England No. 2530437

Silica

DESCRIPTION

Silica is short for silicon dioxide. Abundant in the earth?s crust, it is a major component in beach sand, or quartz. A homeopathic form of silica is called Silicea. Today, it is most well known for its use in the "silicon chip". It is also found in silicone implants, dust breathed in by miners, and silica gel packets, which are used to absorb moisture in products.


FUNCTIONS

Silicon is necessary for the development of healthy hair, Skin, nails, and bones.


REQUIREMENTS

Estimated recommendations range from 20 to 45 mg daily for adults.


SUPPLEMENTAL USES

Alzheimer?s disease:
Silicon may be useful in treatment related to Alzheimer?s disease as an antidote to aluminum.

Heart health:
Silica is currently recommended for the prevention of cardiovascular disease due to its role in maintaining flexible arteries.

Nail health:
Silica supplements can benefit cracking or splitting nails.


SAFETY

Aside from silicosis, which refers to the condition in which silica is taken into the lungs, silica supplements, herbal and food sources are non-toxic.


INTERACTIONS AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS

There are no known drug interactions or contra-indications for silica.


FOOD SOURCES

Food sources include grain husks, such as barley, millet, oats, and rice, and green vegetables, such as Artichokes, asparagus, beets, and bell peppers. Sunflower seeds are another source of silica.

Supplements are derived from horsetail. Algae are another rich source of silica.

REFERENCES

1. Murray M and Pizzorno J. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing, 1991.

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