It is a hard, grayish-white element; it has a metallic luster and the same crystal structure as diamond; and it is brittle, like glass.In addition, it is important to note that germanium is a semiconductor, with electrical properties between those of a metal and an insulator. It’s usually sold under the names germanium dioxide and germanium-lactate-citrate. Germanium ores are rare. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. At the present time, the term Ge-132 is used interchangeably with the name organic germanium to indicate the compound bis-carboxyethyl germanium sesquioxide . How to Treat and Prevent Tight Hamstrings. What Causes Dark Knuckles and How Can You Treat Them? Until they identify the active ingredients and develop a form of germanium that’s proven safe to take, the risks probably outweigh the benefits. Where did you or where do you plan to purchase this product? Nephrol Dial Transplant 1999;14:2464-8. In some cases, germanium can even cause chronic kidney failure and death. View abstract. It’s important to do your homework before taking supplements. ... but doctors don't recommend that because taking too much of it can cause many health problems. Some people believe that organic germanium stimulates your body’s immune system and protects healthy cells. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 1991;31(2):191-196. View abstract. In this lesson you'll learn about many uses for the element germanium. But the purported health benefits of germanium haven’t been supported by research. Nephrotoxicity of germanium compounds: report of a case and review of the literature. Antioxidant activity of Ge-132, a synthetic organic germanium, on cultured mammalian cells. While there may still be some organic germanium products available for purchase in the United States, evidence suggests that germanium may be more menace than miracle. According to Healthline, germanium has also been considered to be beneficial in treating allergies, asthma, arthritis, HIV/AIDS and various forms of cancer. It is also used in thermal imaging applications for military and fire fighting use. 1991;30(1):67-72. Germanium traces were separated by co-precipitation with Fe(OH) 3 [5]. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 1997;25:211-9. Mainwaring MG, Poor C, Zander DS, Harman E. Complete remission of pulmonary spindle cell carcinoma after treatment with oral germanium sesquioxide. But germanium has been linked to serious side effects, including the risk of kidney damage and death. 1986;236(1):103-110. Remember: The FDA does not regulate supplements for safety or effectiveness. Germanium can break down your kidney tissue, causing kidney damage. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Kinetics of germanium dioxide in rats. Excess Symptoms. Dis.Colon Rectum 1990;33(2):99-104. Germanium intoxication with sensory ataxia. If you prefer a more natural approach to managing arthritis pain, plenty of herbal remedies are available. Miracles are said to spring from waters of the grotto in Lourdes, France. Jao, S. W., Lee, W., and Ho, Y. S. Effect of germanium on 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced intestinal cancer in rats. The appropriate dose of germanium depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. View abstract. Understood to draw on the power of magnetism, the germanium health bracelet is considered to be a means of alleviating a number of bodily aches and pains. Germanium is a hard, grayish-white element that has a metallic luster and the same crystal structure as diamond. This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department. Deficiency Symptoms. Thereafter, numerous reports showed that such supplements present a … Cancer Treat Rep 1980;64:1051-6.. View abstract. Ned.Tijdschr.Geneeskd. Learn more here. There is scientific data indicating that it may be beneficial for a number of conditions. Kidney Int 2000;57:2275-84.. View abstract. CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Phase II study of N-methylformamide, spirogermanium, and 4-demethoxydaunorubicin in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (EST 3583): an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group study. 2004;10(2):337-344. Hirayama, C., Suzuki, H., Ito, M., Okumura, M., and Oda, T. Propagermanium: a nonspecific immune modulator for chronic hepatitis B. J Gastroenterol. Atomic number 32, Bis-Carboxyethyl Germanium Sesquioxide, Carboxyethylgermanium Sesquioxide, Ge, Ge-132, Ge-Oxy 132, Germanio, Germanium-132, Germanium Inorganique, Germanium Lactate Citrate, Germanium Sesquioxide, Inorganic Germanium, Numéro Atomique 32, Organic Germanium, Propagermanium, Sesquioxyde de Germanium, Spirogermanium. The chemical symbol for Germanium is Ge. But other uses of the element are now more important. Obara, K., Saito, T., Sato, H., Yamakage, K., Watanabe, T., Kakizawa, M., Tsukamoto, T., Kobayashi, K., Hongo, M., and Yoshinaga, K. Germanium poisoning: clinical symptoms and renal damage caused by long-term intake of germanium. Germanium comes in two forms: organic and inorganic. This material has ability to detect phosphorus, chlorine and sulfur elements. View abstract. Am J Clin Oncol 1985;8:341-4.. View abstract. 1993;55(5):795-799. Yanagisawa H, Yamazaki N, Sato G, Wada O. L-Arginine treatment may prevent tubulointerstitial nephropathy caused by germanium dioxide. How does it work? Partition coefficients of germanomolybdate were studied on a Sephadex LH-20 column [17]. [Note: Shipped as a compressed gas.] However, it is not an essential nutrient for human health. Med Pediatr Oncol 1989;17:197-201.. View abstract. Taking products that contain germanium may cause: Some people believe that germanium can help treat a variety of conditions. Tohoku J Exp.Med. Germanium is mainly a byproduct of zinc ore processing. Since then, more than 7,000 cures have been attributed to Lourdes. Other uses include heavy metal poisoning, including mercury and cadmium poisoning; depression ; cancer ; food allergies ; and yeast and viral infections. View abstract. Germanium is combined with oxygen for use in camera lenses and microscopy. Inorganic germanium is generally considered toxic. Germanium, a chemical element between silicon and tin in Group 14 (IVa) of the periodic table, a silvery-gray metalloid, intermediate in properties between the metals and the nonmetals. You can buy natural germanium supplements at your local health food store or online. View abstract. Large doses may injure the kidneys, liver, muscles, nerves, and brain. Nakada, Y., Kosaka, T., Kuwabara, M., Tanaka, S., Sato, K., and Koide, F. Effects of 2-carboxythylgerumanium sesquioxide (Ge-132) as an immunological modifier of post-surgical immunosuppression in dogs. Germanium has been used to treat depression, arthritis, vision problems, elevated blood pressure, heavy metal poisoning, and cancer. Uses. (check all that apply), What factors are most important to you? Other uses include heavy metal poisoning, including mercury and cadmium poisoning; depression; cancer; food allergies; and yeast and viral infections. 1-8-1992;122(1-2):11-13. Tubulointerstitial nephropathy persisting 20 months after discontinuation of chronic intake of germanium lactate citrate. Nevertheless, Dr. Asai succeeded in developing a formula for producing an organic germanium, Ge-132, that was chemically identical to the form he had extracted from plants. View abstract. Germanium and most of its natural compound are non-toxic as they are insoluble in water. I have been taking a nutritional (low) dose of organic Germanium since I first encountered this work and I have felt that this substance has enhanced my energy level. Furosemide (Lasix) interacts with GERMANIUM. J Neurol Sci 1995;130:220-3.. View abstract. Learn more about the causes, treatments, and natural…. Nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity in humans from organogermanium compounds and germanium dioxide. It is also used in airport screening, and other applications, to detect sources of radiation. Kuwabara, M., Ohba, S., and Yukawa, M. Effect of germanium, poly-trans-[2-carboxyethyl] germasesquioxane on natural killer (NK) activity in dogs. 1991;13(1):1-4. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Aso, H., Suzuki, F., Yamaguchi, T., Hayashi, Y., Ebina, T., and Ishida, N. Induction of interferon and activation of NK cells and macrophages in mice by oral administration of Ge-132, an organic germanium compound. There is, however, no medical evidence of benefit; some evidence suggests that such supplements are actively harmful. Germanium dioxide-induced nephropathy: a new type of renal disease. Protective role of germanium-132 against paraquat-induced oxidative stress in the livers of senescence-accelerated mice. Some scientists think that germanium might decrease how well furosemide (Lasix) works. Schein PS, Slavik M, Smythe T, et al. Yes it does, if you're the type of person who benefits from the placebo effect. The negative-charge ions from Germanium will help in blood purification and balancing the positive and negative ions within the body. According to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, there’s no scientific evidence to support its use for treating arthritis, HIV, or AIDS. For example, it can damage your liver and nerves. Germanium has been associated with a variety of side effects, some of which are very serious. 1983;21(4):167-171. Woolley, P. V., Ahlgren, J. D., Byrne, P. J., Priego, V. M., and Schein, P. S. A Phase I trial of spirogermanium administered on a continuous infusion schedule. 1985;146(1):97-104. Research shows that ‘hands-free’ doesn’t mean ‘brain free’ and that talking while driving is a risky proposition. View abstract. Due to these risks, most doctors recommend avoiding supplements that contain it. Ettinger DS, Finkelstein DM, Donehower RC, et al. Higuchi I, Izumo S, Kuriyama M, et al. View abstract. If you suspect you have a concussion, here are things you can do in the hours and days following the injury that can help. A 2012 study examined changes in rat fecal bacteria and found no correlation that Ge-132 accumulated in rat bodies by weighing the body organs. View abstract. Iijima, M., Mugishima, M., Takeuchi, M., Uchiyama, S., Kobayashi, I., and Maruyama, S. [A case of inorganic germanium poisoning with peripheral and cranial neuropathy, myopathy and autonomic dysfunction]. A high intake of germanium was supposed to improve the immune system, bost the body's oxygen supply, make a person feel more alive and destroy damaging free radicals. Chest 2000;117:591-3.. View abstract. The chemical name for this organic-germanium compound is bis-carboxyethyl germanium sesquioxide. Germanium was considered by some as an elixir in the 1970s and ’80s for diseases such as cancer and AIDS. Germanium supplements, made from both organic and inorganic germanium, have been marketed as an alternative medicine capable of treating leukemia and lung cancer. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.© Therapeutic Research Faculty . 2018;41(5):749-753. Luck BE, Mann H, Melzer H, et al. All rights reserved. Hazard assessment of germanium supplements. Cancer. Germanium can also cause serious side effects, including potentially life-threatening kidney damage. 9 Healthy Benefits of Drinking Aloe Vera Juice, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, What to Do for Concussion Care and Recovery, Making a Left Turn While Talking on the Phone? Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. Renal and other organ failure caused by germanium intoxication. He claims that organic germanium has the same effect as the antibiotics (the animals grow fatter faster, and so on), but with the use of germanium, his animals remain healthy, if not healthier. Lesson Summary. Researchers are interested in spirogermanium, a form of germanium, as an alternative treatment for various kinds of cancer, including breast cancer, colon cancer. Germanium-induced nephropathy: report of two cases and review of the literature. Geranium essential oil has been used to treat health conditions for centuries. View abstract. View abstract. View abstract. Long, Q. C., Zeng, G. X., and Zhao, X. L. Pharmacokinetics of germanium after po beta-carboxyethylgermanium sesquioxide in 24 Chinese volunteers. Matsusaka T, Fujii M, Nakano T, et al. Other uses include heavy metal poisoning, including mercury and cadmium poisoning; depression; cancer; food allergies; and yeast and viral infections. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. Acta Physiol Pol. Med Hypotheses 1988;26:207-15.. View abstract. Health effects of Germanium The estimated daily intake is around 1 mg, and there have been claims that germanium could be beneficial to health, athough this has never been proved scientifically. The banned list includes but is not restricted to: Germanium can cause toxic side effects. Uses Germanium first became important for its use in semiconductors. The health-oriented may soon be able to purchase germanium-raised organic meat in the near future. Vitamins and Supplements to Avoid with Hepatitis C. Quiz: What Do You Know About Vitamin B12 Deficiency? https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cms_ia/importalert_139.html. Common names include germanium-132 (Ge-132) and germanium sesquioxide. Its juice also has many health benefits. View abstract. Source: wikipedia.org License: CC BY 3.0. Wada T, Hanyu T, Nozaki K, et al. Potential health hazards caused by certain germanium-containing dietary supplements include nephropathy (leading in some cases to renal failure and death), cardiomyopathy and peripheral myopathy. Peng X, Lingxia Z, Schrauzer GN, Xiong G. Selenium, boron, and germanium deficiency in the etiology of Kashin-Beck disease. You can see this germanium use in synchrotron x-ray diffraction and other high energy X-ray applications. A wide variety of germanium uses health options are available to you, such as ce, fda. Germanium as Semiconductor 12 grams polycrystalline germanium. 1985;29(1):65-74. Van der Spoel, J. I., Stricker, B. H., Schipper, M. E., de Bruijn, W., de Smet, P. A., and Esseveld, M. R. [Toxic damage of kidney, liver and muscle attributed to the administration of germanium-lactate-citrate]. Some people use germanium for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis , pain, weak bones (osteoporosis), low energy, and AIDS. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using. Biol Trace Elem Res 2000;77:193-7.. View abstract. certain synthetic salts of germanium are toxic and have shown to have damaging effects on kidneys. Germanium is not a biologically significant element and have no role in the bodies of plants or animals. About 40 percent of the germanium produced in the United States is … Small amounts of germanium are found in certain minerals and plant products, including: It’s also a byproduct of coal combustion and zinc ore processing. Raisin, J., Hess, B., Blatter, M., Zimmermann, A., Descoeudres, C., Horber, F. F., and Jaeger, P. [Toxicity of an organic Germanium compound: deleterious consequences of a "natural remedy"]. Invest New Drugs 1984;2(3):305-309. Always talk to your doctor before taking a new supplement or trying an alternative treatment. View abstract. Some people use germanium for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis , pain, weak bones (osteoporosis), low energy, and AIDS. Nephron. Ren Fail. View abstract. A phase II study of spirogermanium in advanced human malignancy. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Schauss AG. We’ll show you ways to loosen up tight hamstrings, plus provide tips for preventing hamstring tightness and improving flexibility. Colorless gas with a pungent odor. This is a detailed article about garlic and its health benefits. Hess B, Raisin J, Zimmermann A, et al. J.Toxicol.Sci. Element Germanium (Ge), Group 14, Atomic Number 32, p-block, Mass 72.630. 1996;17(5):415-418. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for germanium. Both are sold as supplements. Sanai T, Okuda S, Onoyama K, et al. But there isn't enough information to know if this is a big concern. View abstract. View abstract. This still accounts for about 15 percent of the germanium produced. Some people promote it as a treatment for … Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 1997;25:211-9. Am J Kidney Dis 1993;21:548-52.. View abstract. (check all that apply). Phase I clinical trial of spirogermanium. Vogelzang NJ, Gesme DH, Kennedy BJ. Dark knuckles can be caused by different skin conditions, medical conditions, genetics, and more. Biol Pharm Bull. Nephron 1992;62:351-6.. View abstract. One organic rancher in Nebraska has started using germanium in animal feed. We’ll spotlight nine of them for you. Phase II study of spirogermanium in advanced ovarian malignancy. 6-22-1991;135(25):1134-1137. Some people use germanium for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis , pain, weak bones (osteoporosis), low energy, and AIDS. They can help you understand its potential benefits and risks. Here are 11 ways that garlic can improve your health, supported by science. Therefore, the use of dietary supplements containing inorganic or organic germanium to promote health or to inhibit the progress of cancer and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) became popular in the 1970s. Nagata, N., Yoneyama, T., Yanagida, K., Ushio, K., Yanagihara, S., Matsubara, O., and Eishi, Y. Accumulation of germanium in the tissues of a long-term user of germanium preparation died of acute renal failure. ; 21:548-52.. View abstract supported by Research S. Effect of germanium lactate citrate are fairly safe but has. Not restricted to: germanium can help reduce the side effects of certain cancer treatments and. 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Medical conditions, medical conditions, medical conditions, medical conditions, genetics, AIDS! Been associated with a variety of side effects, including potentially life-threatening kidney damage and.. Now more important ’ ll show you ways to loosen up tight hamstrings, plus provide tips for hamstring! What causes dark knuckles and How can you Treat them approach to managing arthritis pain, weak bones ( )! Function, germanium uses health classified as inorganic suggest it ’ s important to you health! Apply ), low energy, and without commercial influence S. W. Lee... Chronic intake of germanium, on cultured mammalian cells contain it, chlorine and sulfur elements where do you about! Several times at the present time, the term Ge-132 is used interchangeably with the name organic germanium germanium. Suggest it ’ s touted as a compressed gas. on cultured mammalian cells names. J Neurol Sci 1995 ; 130:220-3.. View abstract germanium intoxication sanai T, Hanyu,. 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