Aspergillus niger is a fungus that can be found in various environments, including soil, air, and food. While it is not typically harmful to healthy individuals, it can pose a risk to those with weakened immune systems. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Aspergillus niger and explore why it’s important to be aware of this fungus.
What is Aspergillus niger?
Aspergillus niger is a common fungus that belongs to the Aspergillus genus. It is a black mold that can grow on a variety of substrates, including decaying organic matter, grains, and fruits. It produces a variety of enzymes that are used in food and industrial applications, such as citric acid production.
Where is Aspergillus niger commonly found?
Aspergillus niger can be found in many different environments. It is commonly found in soil and decaying organic matter, such as compost piles. It can also be found in water-damaged buildings and indoor air, where it may pose a risk to individuals with respiratory issues. Additionally, it can contaminate food, particularly dried fruits, and nuts.Â
Why should you care about Aspergillus niger?
While Aspergillus niger is not typically harmful to healthy individuals, it can pose a risk to those with weakened immune systems. Individuals who have HIV/AIDS, are undergoing chemotherapy, or have had an organ transplant may be at higher risk for developing an infection caused by Aspergillus niger. Infections caused by this fungus can be serious and may lead to pneumonia or invasive disease.
How can you protect yourself from Aspergillus niger?
- There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from Aspergillus niger:
- Keep your home and work environments clean and dry to prevent the growth of mold.
- Avoid areas with high humidity or moisture, as these can promote the growth of mold.
- Be cautious when handling and consuming dried fruits and nuts, as these can be contaminated with Aspergillus niger.
- If you have a weakened immune system, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to reduce your risk of infection.
How can Mesosilver help with Aspergillus niger?
Recent studies have shown that Mesosilver, a colloidal silver supplement, has the ability to suppress the growth of Aspergillus niger. In a laboratory experiment, Mesosilver was sprayed onto Malt Extract Agar (MEA) medium containing Aspergillus niger spores. The results showed that both 20 ppm and 75 ppm Mesosilver products had a negative impact on the growth of Aspergillus niger, with the 75 ppm product successfully inhibiting fungal growth in the concentrated spray zone. While further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of Mesosilver in humans, these findings suggest that it may have the potential as a natural way to combat Aspergillus niger.
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Conclusion
Aspergillus niger is a fungus that can be found in many different environments and may pose a risk to those with weakened immune systems. While it is important to take steps to prevent exposure to this fungus, recent studies suggest that Mesosilver may be a natural way to combat Aspergillus niger. As always, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
