The relationship between the levels of Germanium in hair and other tissues has not been established and there is currently no published documentation linking elevated hair Germanium levels to Germanium toxicity. However, recent observations indicate that hair Germanium levels are increased by supplementation/therapeutic use of Germanium compounds.
Germanium is generally considered to be a nonessential element that has chemical properties similar to that of silicon. Pure organic Germanium compounds (e.g. carboxyethyl Ge sesquioxide, lactate/citrate salts of Germanium) of relatively low toxicity and have been used experimentally as anti-viral agents and immunostimulants. However, studies in humans are not extensive or conclusive.
Inorganic Germanium could to be nephrotoxic and neurotoxic if present in excess. Germanium is utilized in the manufacture of transistors, diodes, and fluorescent lamps. It is also utilized in the preparation of metal alloys and in medical imaging devices. Silver-copper-Germanium alloys are used in some dental restorations materials. Low concentrations of Germanium are found in foods.
Germanium
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