Silicon

• Bone health support
• Connective tissue formation
• Collagen synthesis

• Skin elasticity improvement
• Hair and nail strength
• Cardiovascular health support
• Immune function support

Silicon plays a crucial role in the body’s structural integrity and various biochemical processes. Its primary mechanism of action involves collagen synthesis and cross-linking, which is essential for the formation and maintenance of connective tissues. Silicon is involved in the hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues in collagen formation, which are critical steps in creating stable collagen fibrils. This mineral acts as a cofactor for enzymes like prolyl hydroxylase, which is necessary for proper collagen cross-linking and stabilization.

In bone health, silicon contributes to the early stages of bone mineralization and calcification by influencing the deposition of calcium and other minerals into the bone matrix. It enhances osteoblast differentiation and activity, promoting bone formation and potentially reducing bone resorption. Silicon also appears to increase the synthesis of type I collagen in osteoblasts, the primary organic component of bone tissue. For skin, hair, and nails, silicon’s role in collagen and elastin production helps maintain structural integrity and elasticity.

It strengthens the connective tissue matrix in the dermis, potentially reducing wrinkle formation and improving skin elasticity. In hair, silicon is incorporated into the hair shaft, enhancing strength and potentially reducing breakage. Silicon may also have immunomodulatory effects, influencing the production of cytokines and other immune mediators. It appears to support cardiovascular health by maintaining the structural integrity of arterial walls through its effects on collagen and elastin.

Additionally, silicon may have antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. At the cellular level, silicon influences gene expression related to extracellular matrix proteins and may regulate cell signaling pathways involved in tissue growth and repair. It also appears to play a role in cross-linking glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in connective tissues, contributing to their structural stability and function. Silicon’s ability to form hydrogen bonds and stabilize molecular structures makes it important for maintaining the three-dimensional configuration of various macromolecules essential for cellular function.

The optimal dosage of silicon supplements typically ranges from 5-40 mg of elemental silicon per day. There is no established Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) or Adequate Intake (AI) for silicon, as it is not officially recognized as an essential nutrient by major health authorities, despite growing evidence of its importance.

Silicon bioavailability varies significantly depending on its chemical form. Orthosilicic acid, the monomeric form of silicon found in water and some beverages, has the highest bioavailability at approximately 50-70%. In contrast, silicon from food sources typically has lower bioavailability, ranging from 1-50% depending on the source and form. Silicon dioxide (silica) has very poor bioavailability unless specially formulated.

Taking silicon supplements in liquid form, particularly as orthosilicic acid or choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA), Consuming silicon with vitamin D, which may enhance its absorption and utilization, Taking silicon with meals containing small amounts of fat to improve absorption, Using monomethylsilanetriol (MMST) or other organic silicon compounds with enhanced bioavailability, Consuming silicon-rich mineral waters, which contain highly bioavailable orthosilicic acid, Avoiding simultaneous intake with high-fiber foods, which may reduce absorption, Maintaining adequate stomach acid levels, as acidic conditions help solubilize silicon compounds

Silicon supplements are best taken on an empty stomach or 30 minutes before meals to maximize absorption, particularly in the morning. However, if gastrointestinal discomfort occurs, taking silicon with a small meal is acceptable. For bone health benefits, taking silicon alongside vitamin D and calcium supplements may be beneficial, but separate them by at least 2 hours from medications that might interact with minerals. Consistency is important for silicon supplementation, as its effects on collagen synthesis and bone mineralization develop gradually over time.

For those taking multiple mineral supplements, space silicon apart from iron, zinc, and magnesium supplements by at least 2 hours, as these minerals may compete for absorption. Silicon absorption may be enhanced when taken earlier in the day, as some research suggests diurnal variations in mineral absorption efficiency.

• Gastrointestinal discomfort (rare)
• Nausea (uncommon)
• Headache (rare)
• Skin rash (very rare)
• Temporary fluid retention (uncommon)
• Mild diarrhea with high doses (uncommon)

• Known hypersensitivity to silicon compounds
• Severe renal impairment (use with caution)
• History of silica kidney stones (rare condition)
• Pregnancy and lactation (due to insufficient safety data)
• Children under 12 years (unless prescribed by healthcare provider)

• May potentially reduce absorption of certain medications if taken simultaneously
• Possible interaction with aluminum-containing antacids (silicon may reduce aluminum absorption)
• Theoretical interaction with certain antibiotics (tetracyclines, quinolones) due to mineral binding
• May enhance effects of calcium supplements
• Potential interaction with diuretics (monitor electrolyte balance)

No official Upper Tolerable Intake Level (UL) has been established for silicon. However, most research suggests that doses up to 50-100 mg per day of elemental silicon appear to be safe for most adults. Silicon from dietary sources and most supplements has not shown toxicity in humans at typical intake levels. Excessive intake of certain forms (particularly crystalline silica, which is not used in supplements) can cause respiratory issues when inhaled, but this is not relevant to oral supplementation.

Long-term safety of very high doses (>100 mg/day) has not been well-established.

In the United States, silicon is not recognized as an essential nutrient by the FDA, and therefore has no established Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) or Adequate Intake (AI) level. Silicon supplements are regulated as dietary supplements under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. This means they do not require FDA approval before marketing, but manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their safety and for making truthful claims. The FDA does not allow specific disease treatment claims for silicon supplements, though structure/function claims (e.g., ‘supports bone health’ or ‘promotes healthy hair and nails’) are permitted with appropriate disclaimers.

Silicon dioxide (silica) is recognized as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA as a food additive and anti-caking agent, but this status is distinct from its use as a nutritional supplement.

Eu: In the European Union, silicon is not included in the list of nutrients for which health claims have been authorized under Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. However, certain silicon compounds are permitted in food supplements under Directive 2002/46/EC. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated several health claims related to silicon but has not approved specific claims due to insufficient evidence. Choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA) has received novel food approval in the EU for use in food supplements. Silicon dioxide is approved as a food additive (E551) in the EU.

Canada: Health Canada allows silicon in supplemental form and has included it in the Natural Health Products Ingredients Database. Silicon-containing supplements must have a Natural Product Number (NPN) to be legally sold in Canada. Health Canada permits certain structure/function claims for silicon supplements related to bone, skin, hair, and nail health, provided there is supporting evidence. Silicon dioxide is permitted as a food additive in Canada.

Australia: The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia regulates silicon-containing supplements as complementary medicines. Silicon is listed in the Therapeutic Goods (Permissible Ingredients) Determination as an ingredient that may be used in listed medicines. Specific health claims for silicon supplements must be supported by evidence and comply with the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code. Silicon dioxide is approved as a food additive in Australia and New Zealand (INS 551).

Japan: In Japan, silicon is not designated as a Food with Functional Claims (FFC) ingredient, but silicon-containing supplements can be sold as general foods or as Foods for Specified Health Uses (FOSHU) if they meet specific criteria and have supporting evidence for their health benefits. Silicon dioxide is approved as a food additive in Japan.

Medium to High (depending on form)

The cost of silicon supplements varies significantly based on the form and bioavailability. Basic silicon dioxide supplements are relatively inexpensive, ranging from $0.10-0.30 per day for a 20-30 mg dose. However, these forms have poor bioavailability. Horsetail extract supplements typically cost $0.20-0.50 per day for an equivalent silicon dose.

More bioavailable forms like choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA) and monomethylsilanetriol (MMST) are considerably more expensive, ranging from $0.75-2.00 per day for an effective dose. Liquid silicon supplements generally cost more than capsules or tablets, with prices ranging from $0.50-1.50 per daily dose.

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of silicon supplements, bioavailability is the most critical factor to consider. Less expensive forms like silicon dioxide and some plant-based sources may appear more economical but often have poor absorption rates, potentially making them less cost-effective despite their lower price. Choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA) and other enhanced bioavailability forms, while more expensive, may provide better value due to their superior absorption and utilization by the body. Clinical studies showing benefits have primarily used these more bioavailable forms.

For bone health, silicon supplements should be considered as complementary to primary interventions like calcium and vitamin D, not as standalone treatments. Their cost-effectiveness for this purpose should be evaluated in this context. For skin, hair, and nail health, silicon supplements may offer good value compared to expensive topical products, particularly when used consistently over time. The cost-benefit ratio improves for individuals with demonstrated silicon deficiency or those with conditions that might benefit from supplementation, such as osteopenia or brittle hair and nails.

Considering that dietary sources of silicon (like whole grains, green beans, and mineral water) are relatively inexpensive, improving dietary intake may be the most cost-effective approach for many individuals before turning to supplements.

The shelf life of silicon supplements varies significantly depending on the form. Solid forms like silicon dioxide or plant-based silicon (horsetail extract) typically have a shelf life of 2-3 years

when properly stored. Liquid silicon supplements, particularly those containing orthosilicic acid, generally have a shorter shelf life of 1-2 years due to the tendency of silicon to polymerize in solution over time. Stabilized forms like choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA) may have extended shelf life of up to 3 years due to proprietary stabilization technologies that prevent polymerization.

Silicon supplements should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Liquid silicon supplements should be kept tightly sealed when not in use to prevent contamination and evaporation. Some forms, particularly liquid orthosilicic acid preparations, may benefit from refrigeration after opening to slow polymerization, though this varies by product (check manufacturer recommendations). Avoid storing silicon supplements in bathrooms or kitchens where humidity levels fluctuate.

Keep silicon supplements in their original containers, as these are designed to protect the product from environmental factors that could affect stability. For capsules or tablets, moisture-proof containers with desiccants are ideal for maintaining potency.

Exposure to high temperatures, which can accelerate chemical breakdown and polymerization of orthosilicic acid, Moisture, which can cause degradation of dry silicon supplements and potentially lead to microbial growth, Oxygen exposure, which may oxidize certain silicon compounds and carrier ingredients, pH changes in liquid formulations, which can affect stability and bioavailability, Light exposure, particularly UV light, which may degrade certain stabilizers used in silicon supplements, Microbial contamination, especially in liquid formulations without adequate preservatives, Polymerization of orthosilicic acid into less bioavailable forms over time (a natural process that occurs in solution), Interactions with container materials (some silicon compounds may interact with certain plastics), Freeze-thaw cycles, which can destabilize liquid silicon formulations, Contamination with metal ions, which can catalyze polymerization reactions

Synthesis Methods

Natural Sources

Quality Considerations

Silicon has a rich history of traditional use across various cultures, though often not recognized specifically as silicon but rather through silicon-rich plants and minerals. In traditional Chinese medicine, bamboo sap (rich in silica) has been used for centuries to strengthen bones, improve skin elasticity, and promote healthy hair and nails. The horsetail plant (Equisetum arvense), one of the richest botanical sources of silicon, has been used medicinally since ancient Greek and Roman times. Dioscorides, a Greek physician in the 1st century CE, documented its use for wound healing, kidney problems, and to stop bleeding.

Native American tribes used horsetail for similar purposes and as a diuretic. In Ayurvedic medicine, silicon-rich herbs like bamboo manna (tabashir) were prescribed for respiratory conditions, skin disorders, and to strengthen bones and connective tissues. Traditional European herbalism employed horsetail and other silicon-rich plants for treating brittle nails, hair loss, and to support bone healing after fractures. In the 19th century, the role of silicon in biology began to be scientifically investigated, with researchers noting its presence in connective tissues and bones.

By the early 20th century, silicon was found to be concentrated in growing bones and connective tissues, suggesting a role in their development. The therapeutic use of silicon as a specific supplement is relatively modern, emerging in the mid-20th century as analytical techniques improved and allowed for better understanding of trace elements in human health. In the 1970s, research by Carlisle and Schwarz suggested that silicon might be an essential nutrient, particularly for bone and connective tissue health. The development of bioavailable silicon supplements, particularly orthosilicic acid formulations, gained momentum in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as research continued to elucidate silicon’s biological roles.

Today, silicon supplements are widely used for bone health, skin elasticity, hair and nail strength, and joint support, representing a modern continuation of traditional uses of silicon-rich botanicals throughout history.

Price CT, Koval KJ, Langford JR. Silicon: a review of its potential role in the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. International Journal of Endocrinology. 2013;2013:316783. doi:10.1155/2013/316783, Rodella LF, Bonazza V, Labanca M, Lonati C, Rezzani R. A review of the effects of dietary silicon intake on bone homeostasis and regeneration. Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging. 2014;18(9):820-826. doi:10.1007/s12603-014-0477-5

Silicon supplementation for bone health in postmenopausal women (SiBone Study), Effects of orthosilicic acid on collagen production and skin aging biomarkers, Silicon intake and bone mineral density changes in athletes with high-impact training, Comparative bioavailability of different silicon supplement formulations