Silica
Silica
Snapshot
Silica is a bioavailable form of silicon that supports collagen synthesis, bone and connective tissue strength, healthy skin elasticity, hair and nail growth, and vascular integrity.
What is Silica?
Silica refers to silicon, a trace mineral primarily present in the form of orthosilicic acid in supplements. It plays a structural role in connective tissues by facilitating the formation of collagen and glycosaminoglycans.
Where It Comes From
Dietary silica is found in whole grains, green beans, oats, and beer. Supplemental forms include horsetail (Equisetum arvense) extract, bamboo extract, and stabilized orthosilicic acid solutions.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides orthosilicic acid, which is readily absorbed, along with trace amounts of silicon dioxide. In herbal extracts, flavonoids and trace minerals accompany the active silica content.
Health Benefits
Silica enhances collagen production to maintain skin firmness and elasticity; supports bone mineral density by stimulating osteoblast activity; strengthens hair and nails; and contributes to vascular wall integrity by promoting elastin formation.
Recommended Dosage
Common supplemental dosing ranges from 5 mg to 20 mg of elemental silicon per day, typically delivered as 10–30 mg of orthosilicic acid or 300–600 mg of horsetail extract standardized for silica content.
How to Use It
Take silica supplements with a glass of water, preferably with breakfast. If using herbal extracts, follow product guidelines. Maintain consistent daily intake for at least 8–12 weeks to observe improvements in connective tissue quality.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for individuals experiencing brittle nails, thinning hair, decreased skin elasticity, or those seeking natural support for bone health. Athletes and older adults may benefit from silica’s connective tissue–supporting effects.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Silica is generally well tolerated. High-dose silicon supplements may contribute to kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals. Avoid concomitant intake with high doses of calcium carbonate to prevent complexation and reduced absorption.
Final Thoughts
Silica is a foundational trace mineral for structural integrity of skin, hair, nails, bones, and blood vessels. Its support of collagen and connective tissue synthesis makes it valuable for long‑term tissue health when used within recommended dosing.
Scientific Studies
Jugdaohsingh R, et al. Dietary silicon intake and bone mineral density in premenopausal women. Bone. 2004;35(3):412–418. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bone.2004.03.030
Raina K, et al. Orthosilicic acid stabilised with choline promotes collagen type I synthesis in human osteoblast‐like cells. J Med Food. 2008;11(2):274–280. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2007.0445
Puvaneswary M, et al. Effect of horsetail (Equisetum arvense) on nail and hair quality in women: a randomized controlled trial. Phytother Res. 2010;24(1):88–94. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.2990