Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceBrain & cognition

Colloidal Gold

Suspended gold nanoparticles marketed for focus, mood and joint comfort. There are no clinical trials in humans supporting any of these uses, and the analytical work that exists is about characterising exposure, not benefit.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • No human trials for cognition or focus Limited evidence

    A 2026 physicochemical evaluation of commercial colloidal gold supplements characterised particle size and estimated oral exposure, and reported only preliminary biological assessment. No randomized trial has tested colloidal gold for attention, memory or mood.

  • Joint claims borrow from prescription gold drugs Limited evidence

    Gold compounds such as auranofin were genuinely studied in rheumatoid arthritis, with a Cochrane review finding modest disease activity benefit and substantial toxicity. These are pharmaceutical gold salts at drug doses, not the trace amounts of metallic gold in a supplement, and the evidence does not transfer.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo established dose. Products typically supply a few micrograms of gold per serving, an exposure with no demonstrated physiological effect.
SafetyLong-term ingestion of gold is poorly characterised in humans. Injectable and oral gold drugs cause rash, mouth ulcers, proteinuria and bone marrow suppression, which is reason for caution rather than reassurance. Supplement quality is variable, and there is no reason to use it in pregnancy, in children, or in place of proven treatment.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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