Determining which supplements are best for your body and your circumstances can be difficult. Though many products claim to boost energy, control appetite, aid weight loss or support the immune system, several of the lesser-known products achieve the same results with more natural ingredients and fewer side effects.

If you’re on the search for amazing natural supplements, check out a few of the lesser-known options before purchasing the latest and trendiest capsules.

Colloidal Silver

Though somewhat controversial due to improper use, Colloidal Silver offers many health benefits when used correctly.

Having been in use since the 1920s, colloidal silver is most widely used today to fight fungal infections, disease, virus and bad bacteria all without affecting the good bacteria our bodies naturally house. It also boosts the immune system and can be preventative against common viruses like the common cold or the flu. Colloidal silver can also be used externally to treat skin conditions such as burns, tissue damage, rashes, acne and scarring.

Simply put, colloidal silver supplements are made of small silver particles within a liquid and contain the same type of metal as jewelry, dental fillings and silverware. Colloidal silver is typically packaged as an ingestible pill or in a liquid form, which can be injected or applied directly to the skin. It absorbs quickly whether used internally or externally, allowing the benefits to kick in sooner.

It should be used in moderation and not for extended periods of time. In rare cases, argyria can develop, giving the skin a blue or gray tone. Pregnant women should avoid taking colloidal silver, and it should never replace other medications as a “cure-all”.

Natural Energy with New Zealand Bee Pollen

Natural Energy with NZ Bee Pollen is an energy supplement produced by X-Tend Life. The supplement contains bee pollen from a remote chemical-free farm in New Zealand, and is flash frozen to preserve the natural benefits. The pollen is made into a powder form, combined with natural enzymes, nature’s best energy-boosting herbs, amino acids and minerals. The pollen and added natural ingredients are capsuled and packaged for sale.

Natural Energy with NZ Bee Pollen is a natural source of energy, appetite suppression, immune support and allergy treatment. Three to six pills should be taken daily, preferably on an empty stomach.

The supplement can be used as a healthier alternative to sugary, calorie-intensive or even ‘diet’ energy drinks and excessive caffeine intake.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids/Fish Oil

When used in proper dosage, omega-3 fatty acids, including fish oil supplements, are proven to raise levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which lower the risk of heart attack, arrhythmia, strokes, cardiovascular disease, slow build up of cholesterol in the arteries, lower blood pressure and relax stiff joints. However, increased dosage can cause excess bleeding and lowering of good cholesterol (LDL). Additionally, certain species of fish are commonly associated with mercury contamination and should be avoided.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and fish oil are best proven to treat high blood pressure, lower blood triglyceride levels and reduce the risk of heart disease or heart attacks. Though rumored to treat diabetes and transplant rejection, it has not been proven to do so effectively and should not be taken for these purposes.

Research

Always conduct proper research and speak with your doctor before beginning any new supplement. Though some supplements are beneficial for many people, others may have adverse reactions. Also be on the lookout for supplements that have an online coupon at your checkout that seems too good to be true. Chances are, it probably is. Stick to FDA approved supplements only and beware of any scams.