Copper
Copper is a chemical element with the symbol Cu (Latin: cuprum) and atomic number 29. It is a ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. Copper has the second highest electrical conductivity of any element after silver. This high value is due to virtually all the valence electrons (one per atom) taking part in conduction.
Copper History
Throughout history, copper has been recognized as having unique characteristics for the treatment of public health problems. Different forms of copper compounds were used by ancient civilizations to treat people stricken with afflictions, and to maintain hygiene. The ancient Egyptians sterilized drinking water and wounds using copper.
The Romans catalogued numerous medicinal uses for copper for various diseases. The Aztecs treated sore throats with copper, while in Persia and India, copper was applied to treat boils and eye infections. With the advent of the germ theory of infection in the 19th century, scientists uncovered ways to use copper's antimicrobial properties to contain infections and disease on a large-scale. More recently, copper bracelets have been worn to alleviate pain associated with arthritis and tendonitis.
Copper Benefits for the Human Body
Copper is an essential trace mineral and an important nutrient to all plant and animal life. It is needed by the human body in very small amounts. Copper is found in primarily in the bloodstream, on a plasma protein called ceruloplasmin, and is present in all tissues of the body but mostly in the skeleton and muscle. Copper bracelets were common in ancient societies. Archaeologists have been unearthing copper jewelry for over 200 years. Worn by Pharaohs, Indian Rajas, Chinese Emperors, Persian Kings, Alexander the Great, and so many others, the copper bracelet has had more than just a cosmetic purpose. In modern times, copper bracelets have been worn for decades by sports people and the elderly to help counteract the symptoms associated with arthritis and tendonitis.
- Copper is vital for nervous system development and is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
- Copper is involved in maintaining the balance of other metals in the body, such as zinc and molybdenum.
- Copper is necessary for maintaining the elasticity of blood vessels.
- Copper is important for proper functioning of the immune system
- In addition to the activities listed above, copper participates in many other enzymatic chemical reactions in the body (e.g., activation of melanin, absorption of iron, free radical neutralization).
Copper helps the body make hemoglobin, which is needed to carry oxygen in red blood cells. It serves as a part of many body enzymes and helps the body produce energy in the cells. It is important in the development of tissues in the bone, lung, and circulatory system. It helps maintain a healthy nervous system.
Copper is vital for collagen formation, which means that copper is essential for bone formation and repair, skin formation and repair, and growth/maintenance of many other tissues incorporating collagen.
Copper Bracelets
Copper bracelets have been the alternative therapy of choice for sports enthusiasts for decades. They strongly believe that copper assists with arthritis and joint problems such as ‘tennis elbow’ and generally strengthens sporting performance. People wear copper for a lifetime with extremely strong loyalty and an unshakeable belief in its benefits. Copper bracelets have been field tested for decades and their appeal is not limited to the sports arena. There is a long folklore and loyalty attached to copper, handed down from generation to generation. The therapeutic results cannot be guaranteed or proven, but there exists a body of testimonial evidence and long-term public support for copper bracelets that is compelling in its own right.
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