Organic silicon: liquid, capsules or gel, which to choose

With silicon, the confusion starts right at the name: G5, G7, organic, orthogenic, MMST… And standing in front of the shelf, you hesitate between a large bottle to drink, a small tub of capsules and a tube of gel. These products all carry the word “silicon”, but they don’t contain the same thing and aren’t used the same way. Here’s how we present them at the counter, with the items on our silicon in Paris page.

Silicon: what are we talking about?

Silicon is a trace element, present in small amounts in the body and in food. As a supplement, it never exists alone: it is always bound to another molecule that stabilises it. That molecule gives the product its name, and it’s the one to look for on the label.

An important point before buying: in Europe, no medical claim is authorised for silicon. Be wary of packaging that promises too much. So here we’ll talk about forms, dosages and directions for use.

Liquid silicon: the original form

This is the oldest form, associated with the name of Loïc Le Ribault. Silicium G7 Original is a solution of monomethylsilanetriol (MMST), an organic silicon, in purified water. The label states 5 mg of organic silicon per 30 ml, with no preservative. The recommended dose is 30 ml per day, i.e. one measuring cap, neat or diluted in a glass of water, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach.

Silicium G7 Siliplant from Silicium España follows a different logic: its silicon is plant-derived, based on stabilised silicic acid and horsetail extract. The label states around 10.8 mg of silicon per 30 ml. It is taken in two doses, 15 ml morning and evening, 15 to 20 minutes before meals. Its taste is described as neutral to slightly vegetal.

The liquid form suits those who like a simple ritual and don’t want capsules. Its drawback: a one-litre bottle, less convenient when travelling. At a dose of 30 ml per day, a litre of G7 Original lasts around a month, according to the product page; the same goes for Siliplant. If the mineral taste bothers you, the G7 Original product page allows dilution in a glass of water or fruit juice.

Silicon capsules: convenient day to day

Two capsule products, two very different compositions.

• Silicium G7 Activ+ combines a silicic acid bound to acacia gum, with magnesium and vitamin C. The label states around 10 mg of silicon per 2 capsules. Take 1 to 2 capsules a day, around 10 minutes before meals, with a large glass of water.
• Silicium Orthogénique nature contains choline-stabilised orthosilicic acid: 50 mg per capsule, including 12.5 mg of elemental silicon. It is taken as 1 to 2 capsules a day, with a meal.

Both come in plant-based capsules. They slip into a bag and combine easily with other supplements. Just note the difference in timing: before the meal for one, with the meal for the other. It’s a small detail, but the one most often forgotten when switching products.

Gel: for the skin, not for drinking

Gel is a separate category: it is used topically, never taken by mouth. The Silicium G7 Gel in a 500 ml bottle is applied as a small amount onto the chosen area, massaged in gently until absorbed, 2 to 3 times a day depending on the brand. It also comes in a 150 ml tube, easier to carry. There’s nothing stopping you from using a gel alongside a liquid form: they serve two separate purposes. Skin and hair products also have their own beauty range.

Reading the label: elemental silicon or molecule?

This is the most common trap. Some labels state the amount of the molecule (for example stabilised orthosilicic acid), others the amount of elemental silicon, meaning silicon on its own. For Silicium Orthogénique, 100 mg of the molecule per 2 capsules corresponds to 25 mg of elemental silicon: the label gives both figures. Always compare the same figure from one product to another, and relate it to the daily dose, not to the capsule or millilitre.

Also look at the other ingredients: magnesium and vitamin C in G7 Activ+, horsetail extract in Siliplant, nothing but MMST and a stabiliser in G7 Original. The whole Spanish range is also gathered on the Silicium España page.

Frequently asked questions

Should silicon be taken on an empty stomach?

It depends on the product: G7 Original is best taken in the morning on an empty stomach, Siliplant and G7 Activ+ before meals, Silicium Orthogénique with a meal.

Can liquid silicon be diluted?

Yes, in a glass of water or fruit juice according to the G7 Original product page, if the mineral taste bothers you.

Can the gel replace the liquid form?

No, these are two different uses: the gel is reserved for application on the skin.

Does silicon suit everyone?

Follow the dose stated on the label. If pregnant, breastfeeding or undergoing treatment, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before starting.

Bottle, capsules or gel, the clearest way to decide is to see them side by side: come to 10 rue Théophile Roussel, in Paris 12th, and we’ll show you in a few minutes.