Supplements›Use with caution

Germanium supplements: are they safe? What to know

Don't take germanium by mouth. It's one of the rare supplements you should avoid altogether: even small amounts can damage the kidneys of healthy people. Its sale has been stopped in the US, so also avoid buying it abroad or ordering it online from overseas.

Who it’s for

No one should take it

Daily dose

There is no safe dose

When

Not applicable — if you're taking it, stop now

Best form

Avoid both inorganic and organic germanium

Bottom line: avoid oral germanium

With most supplements, the problem is 'taking too much.' Germanium is different. The general consensus is that it's better to avoid it even at a 'normal' dose.

  • Taking it just a few times can lead to kidney failure (when the kidneys can't do their job).
  • Its sale was stopped in the US because of kidney damage.
  • It's still sold in some parts of Asia and Europe, but don't get it while traveling or by ordering online from overseas.
Claims like "it delivers oxygen to your body" or "it boosts immunity" are unfounded exaggerations.

Why germanium damages the kidneys

It takes 4–5 days for germanium to leave your body. Meanwhile, it stays in your kidneys and causes inflammation. If you keep taking it, it builds up and gradually damages the kidneys.

Here are actual reported cases.

  • An analysis of data from 1982 to 1991 found 18 cases of acute kidney failure and 2 deaths.
  • A person who took 600 mg of inorganic germanium a day for 18 months died of kidney failure.
  • More than 40 cases of death or severe kidney failure have appeared in published papers. Some people even needed a kidney transplant.
  • Most cases happened after weeks to months of use.

Inorganic vs organic germanium

You may have heard that "organic germanium is safe." But it's best to avoid both.

TypeWhat it's likeVerdict
Inorganic germanium (germanium dioxide)Extremely toxic to the kidneys. Banned from sale in most countries.Never take it
Organic germanium (supplement form)Said to be less harmful than the inorganic form, but published papers still warn caution.Avoid

If you're already taking it

  1. Stop starting today.
  2. Get a kidney function test from your doctor (creatinine and eGFR in a blood test, plus a urine test).
  3. If you're urinating less, your body is swelling, or you're unusually tired and have lost your appetite, see a doctor right away.
  4. If a family member brought back a 'health food' from overseas, check the ingredient list for Germanium.

Medications and conditions to watch

  • Caution Kidney disease under treatment — Kidney damage may progress faster — never take it

Frequently asked questions

Is taking germanium good for you?

No. Oral germanium can directly damage the kidneys, so even healthy people should avoid it. Claims about delivering oxygen or boosting immunity are unfounded exaggerations.

Is organic germanium safe?

It's said to be less harmful than the inorganic form, but there's still data showing risk. Published papers also warn caution with the organic form, so avoid it.

Can you buy germanium in the US?

Its sale was stopped in the US because of kidney damage. Also avoid bringing it back from abroad or ordering it online from overseas.

I've taken germanium for a few months. Will I be OK?

First, stop right away. Then get a kidney function blood test and a urine test from your doctor. If you notice swelling or changes in how much you urinate, see a doctor promptly.

Last updated 2026-10-12