Copper Conscious

Copper is used in holistic and spiritual practices for its many potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and supporting the immune system.

February 14, 2025

While heavy metals are typically not good for you, copper is an essential trace mineral found in some foods that helps the body make energy, blood, connective tissues, and collagen. It also helps maintain the immune system and nervous system.

Copper is considered good for the body because it plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including but not limited to red blood cell production, iron absorption, nerve function, neuropeptide activation, neurotransmitter synthesis, immune system health, collagen synthesis (important for bones and connective tissues), and potentially acting as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage; essentially, it helps maintain overall health by supporting multiple systems within the body.

Key points about copper’s benefits:

Iron absorption: It is vital for the body to properly absorb iron, which is necessary for red blood cell production, preventing anemia.
Brain development: It is needed for brain development.
Connective tissue formation: It’s involved in the synthesis of collagen, a protein crucial for building and maintaining bones, skin, and other connective tissues.
Nervous system health: It contributes to the healthy functioning of nerve cells.
Immune system support: Adequate copper levels are important for a robust immune system.
Antioxidant potential: Some research suggests copper may have antioxidant properties, helping to combat cell damage caused by free radicals.
Enzyme function: It acts as a cofactor for several enzymes (cuproenzymes) involved in various bodily processes like energy production, connective tissue synthesis, and neurotransmitter production.

Important considerations:

Too much copper can be harmful: While copper is essential, consuming excessive amounts can be toxic.
Excessive copper accumulation/overload can cause liver damage, neurological problems, and other health complications.
Consult a healthcare professional: If you suspect a copper deficiency, consult your doctor before taking supplements.

Copper deficiency

Research suggests that at least one-quarter of the American population does not meet the daily average requirement for this essential mineral. Copper deficiency can lead to anemia, bone issues, impaired immune function, neurological issues, and peripheral neuropathy, a disabling condition that can cause people to rely on wheelchairs or walking canes. Causes of deficiency can vary from not getting enough in diet, malabsorption, genetic disorders, and chronic zinc supplementation.

Symptoms of deficiency can include:

Anemia: Low red blood cell count
Hair changes: Low levels can contribute to premature graying of hair because copper is needed to produce melanin that gives hair its color
Bone problems: Fractures, osteoporosis, and bone marrow abnormalities
Skin changes: Loss of skin pigment, or paleness
Neurological problems: Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, and impaired coordination
Heart problems: Irregular heartbeat and increased risk of ischemic heart disease
Other symptoms: Low white blood cell count, low body temperature, loss of skin pigment, thyroid problems, and increased risk of infection

Dietary sources

Foods like shellfish, eggs, organ meats (liver), nuts, legumes, blueberries, dark leafy greens, potatoes, cucumbers, celery, dark chocolate, tofu, bananas, Shiitake mushrooms, avocado, chickpeas, lentils, black pepper, and whole grains are good sources of dietary copper. Supplements may be necessary for those who are not able to obtain enough in their regular diet, however, it is important to remember that too much copper can be dangerous.

Symptoms of too much copper include:

Gastrointestinal issues: Vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and stomach cramps
Headaches and dizziness: May occur from breathing in copper dusts, sprays, or crystals
Liver damage: Can lead to cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver
Kidney damage: Can lead to kidney stones
Lung inflammation: Can lead to permanent scarring and decreased lung function
Anemia: Low red blood cell count
Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin
Mental health issues: Such as depression, irritability, bipolar disorder, or psychosis
Nervous system issues: Such as tremors, involuntary muscle movements, clumsy walking, and difficulty speaking
Blood problems: Such as hemolysis, which destroys red blood cells and leads to anemia and jaundice

Holistic uses

Copper has many potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and supporting the immune system. It’s used in holistic and spiritual practices and may help with:

Anti-inflammatory: May help with arthritis, bursitis, and rheumatism
Cardiovascular health: May improve circulation and balance blood flow
Bone health: Helps form collagen, which is a key part of bones
Immune system: Helps keep the immune system healthy
Antioxidant: May reduce free radicals that can damage cells and DNA
Skin health: May help prevent skin aging
Wound healing: Copper oxide-treated wound dressings may increase blood vessel formation and speed up wound healing

Spirituality

In spirituality, copper is often associated with energy flow, protection, healing, and the ability to conduct spiritual energy; it is considered a powerful metal that can help stimulate and balance the chakras, promoting overall well-being and enhancing intuition, particularly in cultures like Hinduism where it is seen as a symbol of purity and sacredness. Native American cultures also often link it to the spirit of the earth and use it in ceremonial practices.

Key aspects of copper’s spiritual meaning:

Conductive energy: It is believed to be a strong conductor of energy, allowing it to channel positive vibrations throughout the body and environment.
Protection: Wearing jewelry or having items nearby that are made of it is often seen as a way to ward off negative energies and psychic attacks.
Healing properties: It’s thought to support physical healing by improving circulation and can also assist in emotional healing by releasing stagnant energy.
Intuition enhancement: Some believe it can heighten one’s intuitive abilities and psychic perception.
Grounding: Copper can help ground individuals to the earth, providing stability and connection to the physical realm.

As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

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References/Sources/Materials provided by:

TJ Webber at WHN

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Copper-Consumer

https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/copper

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK225396

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10076572.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21979243

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4556990.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8970836

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4469220

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S073510971501445X?via%3Dihub