It is supposed to help in the healing of open cuts, scrapes, open sores "on" the skin. My roofer contractor used it on his cuts. I have not had the experience to use it. I am from the old school applying neosporin and bandaides.
There are different types of silver. One permanently turns the skin blue if it is ingested (not sure which one).
Medical history tells us that centuries ago the babies born from families that fed their babies with a "silver" spoon survived more of the onslot of illnesses compared to babies fed with other materials. It is believed the silver of the spoon had something to do with supporting the immune system in small amounts. Thus, the expression "Born with a silver spoon in your mouth." J.
P.S. I do not see why adults can't use real silverware for themselves as well.