An essential element, copper is a soft and malleable metal that has long been loved for being a first-class conductor. With a strong electrical and thermal charge, this essential metal has been used for centuries in everything from industry to technology and even when it comes to spiritual healing and healthcare.
What is Copper?
Brassy and bright and with an unmistakable reddish glow, copper has a ton of useful properties both in the physical world and the spiritual realm, which makes it so invaluable to us. Here are some of the most important properties to know about when it comes to this ancient metal.
A strong conductor - one of the biggest strengths of copper is its ability as a conductor. Of course, copper will conduct electricity and heat, which is why it's so well-loved in tech and industry. But it's also a conductor of energy - which means it can carry vibrations, connect the physical and spiritual, and can be a great asset when it comes to healing.
A balancing act - Copper is also great at bringing balance, which is why it's used to stabilize circuits and balance out currents in an electrical setting. This also carries over emotionally and energetically and when it comes to physical health too.
A good transformer - Copper is also a metal that is malleable, meaning that it can be easily transformed. This element can be heated, cooled, and shaped. This means that it's also highly adaptable and serves as a solid reminder of the need to be malleable when facing the challenges of life.
Naturally antibacterial - copper is naturally antibacterial and has antimicrobial properties too. This is why wearing copper jewelry like copper rings and copper bracelets can be useful for those with skin diseases or sensitive skin conditions, as copper can help heal without causing further reactions.
This collection of properties means that copper can be used for many things in our daily lives. It shows up in man forms in everything from cooking to currency, building, and when treating bacterial infections. Here are some of the common uses for copper you may come across in your daily life.
Wiring and plumbing - copper is often used in electrical wiring and when it comes to plumbing. This is because the bright, zesty metal is a dab hand at thermal regulation and works wonders as a conductor too. Copper is also considered to be super durable and flexible and doesn't surrender to corrosion in the same way as other metals.
Cooking - there's a reason that so much cookware is made from copper, and this is also down to its great thermal regulating properties but is also tied to the fact that its antibacterial, which makes it a safer surface for food when preventing the growth of bacteria.
Healing - copper jewelry - whether it's women's rings or a copper bangle, these are also popular as supportive jewelry for those suffering from aches and pains. Copper has many benefits and boosts blood vessels, reduces stiffness, improves oxygen circulation, and helps with collagen production, among other things. Copper jewelry is also eye-catching with its sunlit vibes and looks awesome when paired with bamboo clothing.
Introduction to Copper Healing Properties
Using copper for its health benefits is no new fad. This practice was hugely popular in ancient civilizations as everyone, from the Greeks to the Romans to the ancient Egyptians, called on copper to soothe everything from chronic wounds to skin diseases, headaches, and more. The ancient Greeks would use copper to treat ailments but also believed it would help grant long life. In ancient Egypt, the red gold metal was also believed to help purify water and sterilize wounds.
Even in ancient Chinese medicine, copper was believed to bring cooling and cleansing to the body, meaning that it was often called on to help break fevers. Copper was (and still is) also popular in Ayurvedic medicine as it is known for balancing the three doshas and encouraging the life force flow of prana.
Copper is still used for healing today - both the body and the spirit. Here are some of the reasons why copper is so beneficial when it comes to boosting your overall health and well-being.
Anti-inflammatory - copper has anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it's often used in copper jewelry, specifically for those with arthritis and joint pain.
Anti-microbial - this healing metal is also known to have anti-microbial properties meaning that it knows how to stop pathogens in their tracks. As it also naturally offers antibacterial activity, it can help heal skin conditions and wounds.
Anti-oxidant - copper has antioxidant properties. If you want extra protection when it comes to free radicals and your skin cells, copper can be just the ticket for kicking out all kinds of oxidative stress factors.
Boosts collagen - another great health benefit of copper is its ability to stir up collagen production. Collagen plays such an important role when it comes to the body - not only does it keep skin fresh and healthy, but it also strengthens connective tissue and bones.
Improves energy - as a first-class conductor, copper can raise the stakes when it comes to your sense of vitality. From carrying electrons to helping the body with metabolic processes (particularly when it comes to iron) - this is one of the reasons why copper is such an essential nutrient for the body.
Copper's Role in the Body
Copper is essential for the body - it's the third most common trace mineral we have, and without it - we can't function at our best. From enzyme production to lending a helping hand when it comes to our immunity, without the right amount of copper, we can actually compromise our own health and well-being. Here are some of the starring roles that copper takes when it comes to your body.
Essential Nutrient
The body cannot produce its own copper, which is why it's an essential nutrient to get through your diet and other ways. Copper helps with enzymes that are involved in everything from energy production to tissue formation and your defense systems too. It also helps with nervous system function and pigment formation. You can raise your copper levels by eating seafood, liver, almonds, seeds, whole grains, and beans. You can also take copper supplements if your diet isn't doing an adequate job of providing what you need. Adults are recommended to have around 900 mg of copper a day.
Antioxidant Properties
The antioxidant properties in copper can help prevent damage done by free radicals to your cells. Free radicals refer to unstable molecules that contribute to cell damage which leads to visual signs of aging, inflammation, and even chronic health conditions. Copper is a big supporter of antioxidant enzymes, and these help by lending a defense system and neutralizing danger.
Immune System Support
A strong immune system is good for the body, mind, and soul. Copper can be a valuable asset to your immune system as it helps boost it in several ways. Copper can assist with white blood vessel formation; it regulates inflammation by encouraging a healthy and proactive response, and the antimicrobial aspect also ensures that bacteria and viruses are killed off as quickly as possible.
Wound Healing
Whether you have chronic wounds or a skin condition that won't quit, copper can be an effective agent in helping encourage new cell growth and a healthy cell membrane, among other things. This is known as the angiogenic factor. It also helps with collagen production, which helps connective tissue form - another important element in healing wounds. The added benefit of copper's antimicrobial and antibacterial strengths also helps reduce inflammation and prevent infections - both of which can slow down the healing process.
How to Use Copper for Healing
As copper is such an important part of our daily health and wellness, there are ways to raise your relationship game with this essential element. Of course, copper is used for physical healing and to keep your health in tip-top shape, but it also brings many spiritual benefits too. Raising your vibrations and upping your energy levels helps you stay centered and keeps your chakras clear. It is also believed to help build a strong bridge between the physical and the divine realms and can heighten your own connection. As a powerful protector and a great conductor, copper can serve as a negative detox and keep the positive flowing toward you. Here are some ways in which you can call on copper to help you elevate and heal.
Dietary Sources of Copper
A well-balanced diet should definitely include lots of lush copper-friendly foods. As the body doesn't make its own copper, one of the best ways of introducing it to your body is through diet. For copper-rich foods, you can stock up on shellfish like oysters and crabs. Meat eaters can also look to offal-like cuts such as liver, heart, and kidney. Vegetarians and vegans need not scrimp on copper as it's also found in nuts and seeds like cashews and almonds, along with legumes and beans - think hearty chickpeas, beans, and lentils. Leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale and whole grains can also welcome copper to your diet. For sweet-toothed types - dark chocolate is the key.
Copper Supplements
While diet is the main way to welcome copper into the body, if your eating plan isn't serving up enough copper - you can also consider supplements. Copper supplements can help top you up to the recommended daily allowance, although, as with all supplements, be sure to check with your healthcare provider that they are suitable for you.
Copper Jewelry and Accessories
Wearing copper jewelry may also be an effective way to boost your copper levels. Wearing a copper bracelet, a copper ring, a copper bangle, women's necklaces and other accessories that come into close contact with the skin may cause your pores to absorb some of that glorious copper element. While the impact will be small, it can boost your copper count. Copper jewelry is also believed to help with body aches and pains, as having copper close to the body can reduce inflammation, encourage active and healthy circulation, and generally promote energy and wellness.
Side Effects of Copper Healing
Copper is generally considered to be very safe for those who call on its healing powers. However, as with all material and energetic elements in life, there is a chance of it causing some side effects, which is why it's important to stick to the recommended daily allowances and call on your healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Here are some of the side effects you may expect with copper healing.
Overdose
The recommended allowance of copper for adults each day is 900 mg. If you take more copper than your body can deal with, you are at risk of overdosing. A copper overdose can cause copper toxicity which usually presents itself with nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and stomach pain. In severe cases, it can have serious implications on your health, so if you feel like you may have copper toxicity, seek medical attention immediately.
Interactions with Medications
Copper supplements, in particular, may interfere with certain medications. In particular, you should seek advice and be careful when taking copper alongside antibiotics, zinc, and antacids. Taking these things together can cancel each other out and affect absorption ability.
Allergic Reactions
Wearing copper jewelry may cause adverse reactions in some people, although considering copper's status as being antimicrobial - this isn't a common occurrence. Signs of sensitivity or allergy include rashes, redness, and itchiness. It is completely normal for copper jewelry to leave a green patina on the skin as this is the metal oxidizing and reacting to the body's unique chemistry.
Conclusion
Ancient and amazing, copper has a long legacy when it comes to healing body, mind, and soul. By ensuring you get enough connection with copper in your life, you can fend off free radicals, fight inflammation, bring more energy into your life, and deepen your spiritual connection with the divine. Welcoming more healing into your world in everyday choices puts you in step with the best intentions to connect with the universe. Whether its choosing healing copper jewelry, wearing bamboo clothing brands, or making space for meditation - all will add to your sense of overall wellbeing.
FAQs
Does copper have healing properties?
Yes, copper has healing properties and is an essential element for the body. Copper is believed to heal inflammation in the body, reduce aches and pains, and can raise your energy levels. It is also known to have a positive antioxidant effect and is antimicrobial and antibacterial too. It also has spiritual healing benefits.
How to use copper for healing?
Wearing copper jewelry is a popular way of calling on the healing powers of copper. Copper bangles, bracelets, and rings are believed to help ease pain, boost immunity, and raise energy levels. A copper-rich diet is also necessary for the body to flourish in full health. Those with a copper deficiency can also talk to their healthcare provider about copper supplements.
Can copper heal pain?
It is believed that copper can reduce pain in the body as it boasts anti-inflammatory properties. Wearing copper is said to encourage healthy circulation, reduce pain, and elevate energy levels. Copper is an essential element in the body as it helps boost the immune system, encourages collagen production, and works as an antioxidant - all of which can help prevent illness and inflammation in the body.
Is copper effective for anxiety?
As copper is believed to have a strong grounding and protective properties, it may have a positive impact on anxiety levels. As copper can also raise your spiritual game and forge closer bonds with the divine realm, it can also elevate your sense of peace.