Silica

Also known as: silicon dioxide, SiO2, mesoporous silica, silica nanoparticles, amorphous silica, calcium-sodium phosphosilicate, CSPS

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Mineral compound used in toothpastes and drug delivery. Limited evidence for oral supplement benefits.

What it does

Silica is a naturally occurring mineral compound (silicon dioxide) found in many forms, from toothpaste abrasives to experimental drug-delivery nanoparticles. In dental products, silica-based...
Evidence quality

Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
Clinical dose

No established dose
Found in

1.M.R OG Pre-Workout Formula, Halo Beauty Hair Skin Nails Booster, Nature's Bounty Milk Thistle 250 mg and 17 more

See full breakdown ↓ Methodology →

What the Science Says

Silica is a naturally occurring mineral compound (silicon dioxide) found in many forms, from toothpaste abrasives to experimental drug-delivery nanoparticles. In dental products, silica-based toothpastes are used as mild abrasives to clean teeth, while specialized calcium-sodium phosphosilicate formulas have shown clinical benefit for reducing tooth sensitivity within days of use. In cutting-edge medical research, mesoporous silica nanoparticles are being studied as vehicles to deliver drugs and genetic therapies directly to target tissues, though this is far from consumer supplement use.

What It Doesn't Do

No evidence it improves hair, skin, or nail strength when taken as an oral supplement — that's a common marketing claim with no support in these studies. Won't detox your body. Not proven to strengthen bones when taken as a pill. The nanoparticle drug-delivery research has nothing to do with silica sold in supplement capsules.

Evidence-Based Benefits

A 5% calcium-sodium phosphosilicate toothpaste reduces dentine hypersensitivity within 3 days of twice-daily brushing.

Moderate Evidence

Effective at: 5% w/w in toothpaste, twice daily

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 42013973

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles can safely deliver siRNA locally with minimal systemic exposure in healthy adults.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 40160160

Silica-coated nanohydroxyapatite scaffolds promoted meaningful vertical bone growth in patients after jaw surgery.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 41848605

Absorption & Bioavailability

Unknown for oral supplement forms. Pharmacokinetic data from one Phase 1 trial showed mesoporous silica nanoparticles had minimal systemic circulation after subcutaneous injection, suggesting poor systemic absorption even via injection.

Red Flags to Watch For

Occupational inhalation of crystalline silica dust causes silicosis, a serious and irreversible lung disease — this is distinct from food-grade or supplement silica but consumers should be aware of the hazard distinction
Animal studies suggest combined exposure to silica nanoparticles and high-fat diet may worsen liver injury and gut microbiome disruption — long-term safety of ingested silica nanoparticles in humans is not established
Silica is widely used as an anti-caking filler in supplements, not as an active ingredient — products marketing it as a primary benefit ingredient lack clinical backing
No standardized dosing exists for silica as an oral supplement; products vary widely in form and amount

Supplement

Legitimate

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Silica do?

Mineral compound used in toothpastes and drug delivery. Limited evidence for oral supplement benefits.

What is the effective dose of Silica?

No established dose

Is Silica safe?

Occupational inhalation of crystalline silica dust causes silicosis, a serious and irreversible lung disease — this is distinct from food-grade or supplement silica but consumers should be aware of the hazard distinction

What doesn't Silica do?

No evidence it improves hair, skin, or nail strength when taken as an oral supplement — that's a common marketing claim with no support in these studies.

Research Sources

PubMed
NIH DSLD

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25