How can I find the silica and propolis that Dr. Berg recommends for autism?Updated a month ago
The best practices for finding silica and propolis, Dr. Berg suggests in the 'Autism Is NOT Caused By Vaccines' video James linked to in the email. For the D3 and magnesium glycinate, please refer him to our products.
Currently, Dr. Berg does not carry a monomethylsilanetriol (MMST) silica product, nor do we have a specific brand recommendation. However, we can offer you a list of best practices to help you source a high-quality MMST product:
Choose “Monomethylsilanetriol” Specifically
Ensure the label clearly states “Monomethylsilanetriol” (not just “silica” or “silicon”). Many cheaper products use orthosilicic acid or horsetail extract, which aren’t as bioavailable.
Look for Liquid Form
MMST is usually found in liquid form, which supports better absorption compared to capsules or tablets. Powders are uncommon and may not be stable.
Check the Dosage
Aim for 100–200 mg of elemental silicon and a suggested usage of 2 to 3 times per day. Be aware: many products list the compound weight, not the actual silicon content. Confirm with the manufacturer if unclear.
Prioritize Purity & Simplicity
Look for products with minimal ingredients — ideally just MMST, purified water, and maybe citric acid as a stabilizer. Avoid added sugars, colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Demand 3rd-Party Testing
Reputable companies will provide independent laboratory testing to verify potency and report on the presence of heavy metals and microbes.
Check the Country of Origin
Products made in the U.S., Canada, or EU countries tend to follow stricter quality and labeling standards. Be cautious with imports from unregulated sources.
Read Reviews with Discernment
Verified buyer reviews can provide valuable insights into product efficacy and customer service. Look for patterns, in addition to star ratings.
Start Slow and Monitor
Once you find a trusted product, start with a low amount, such as 100 mg once a day, and monitor how your body responds. If your body responds well, gradually increase the amount each day until you reach the 100-200 mg of elemental silica 2 to 3 times per day recommendation.
Propolis has shown emerging promise in the context of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Currently, Dr. Berg does not carry a propolis product, nor does he have a specific brand recommendation. However, we can offer you a list of best practices to help you source a high-quality propolis product.
Choose a Purified Extract with Consistent Bioactive Levels
Seek a product that lists standardized levels of polyphenols, especially CAPE (Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester), as this is one of the most studied neuroprotective compounds in propolis.
Typical concentration for CAPE is 5–10% in high-potency extracts, though few products list this, so contacting the manufacturer may be necessary.
Opt for Alcohol-Free for Sensitive Individuals
For children or those with sensory or detox challenges, alcohol-free extracts (glycerin-based) may be gentler.
If using alcohol-based tinctures, you can evaporate the alcohol by adding the drops to warm water and letting it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Go for Single-Origin, Lab-Tested Propolis
Brazilian green propolis has shown promising results in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory research related to brain function.
Insist on third-party testing to confirm the presence of heavy metals, solvent residues, pesticide contamination, and confirmed levels of key active compounds.
A trustworthy company should provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) that reports flavonoid/CAPE content, microbial safety, and purity.
Avoid Multi-Ingredient Blends
Avoid using propolis mixed with echinacea, elderberry, or other immune-boosting herbs unless those ingredients are also part of your protocol. You want clean, focused support.
Consider Encapsulated Powder for Dosing Precision
Capsules or softgels offer more precise amounts and fewer taste and sensory issues for those with oral aversions.
Know the Source — and Bee-Friendly Matters
Prefer propolis harvested from low-pollution, biodiverse regions (Brazil, New Zealand, or select European sources).
Companies that support bee conservation tend to prioritize long-term quality over mass-production shortcuts.
Test Low and Slow
Introduce slowly, watching for changes in behavior, digestion, or skin. Propolis is powerful — it may modulate inflammation and detox pathways, so pace matters.