Silica

Authors:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer, Prof. Dr. med. Martina Bacharach-Buhles

Last updated on: 29.10.2020

Synonym(s)

CAS number: 91053-39-3; Celite; Diatomaceous earth; Mountain flour; Silica; Silica flour; solum diatomeae; terra silicea

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Vaguely defined term for minerals and sediments with high silicon content. Originally, the term silica was used to describe minerals that are suitable for the production of glass due to their quartz content. Siliceous earth is offered as a food supplement. The amount of silicon dioxide (silica) required by the body is covered by the normal diet. Silicon is contained, for example, in potatoes or whole grain products.

Pharmacodynamics (Effect)This section has been translated automatically.

The mechanism of the positive effect of silica on hair and nails is largely unexplained, but it is believed to be due to the increase of hydroxyproline in the dermis caused by oral silicon administration (silicon administration).

IndicationThis section has been translated automatically.

Silica is traditionally used to improve "skin, nails and hair". Furthermore, a long-term cosmetic effect is postulated. There are several studies available on the effect of silica, including a randomized double-blind study and a monocentric open clinical study (3 times/day 350 mg silica p.o. for 6 months) in which the hair quality such as hair strength and hair structure were improved under study conditions.

Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.

The term silica is derived from "diatoms", which have a silicon-containing cell envelope that is preserved after their death and thus forms the basic material of silica. As a homeopathic remedy, silica is also known as Silicea terra, while silicic acid is known as Acidum silicium.

Chemically, silica is a silicic anhydride, i.e. silicon dioxide and not silicic acid. Occasionally, aluminosilicates (alumosilicates) such as kaolins are also called silica. They contain SiO2 and Al2O3.

LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.

Gehring W (2010) Effect of oral administration of silica on hair quality. Act Dermatol 36: 414-417
Wickett RR (2007) Effect of oral intake of choline stabilized orthosilic on hair tensilestrength and morphology in women with fine hair. Arch Dermatol Res 299: 499-505

Authors

Last updated on: 29.10.2020

Authors: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer Prof. Dr. med. Martina Bacharach-Buhles