Silver has been used in medicine and other health-related fields for centuries. The antiseptic, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties of silver were recognized thousands of years ago, leading to its utility in hospitals, food processing facilities, and on the battlefield. Water purification and dentistry are long time uses of medicinal silver.
Growth of silver use in the medical field is slow, but steady. Demand for silver, due to its multiple industrial uses, often creates economic sensitivity, related to silver pricing in the silver market. This price volatility is exacerbated in times of fiscal turmoil, because of fluctuating demand for products made with silver. The exception to this rule may be health related silver products. Silver products for health purposes may someday create greater silver market stability, as these applications continue to grow.
Currently, medical demand for silver is miniscule, making up only a very small portion of silver demand. However, the addition of silver to improve established products, and the long-term benefits potentially derived from reduction of aftercare may give medical silver a foothold for more stable future silver demand.
