Copper

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Other names for copper

Copper Gluconate
Copper Bisglycinate
Copper Sulfate
Chelated Copper
Copper Alpha-Ketoglutarate
copper amino acid chelate
Copper ascorbate
copper bisglycinate
copper bisglycinate chelate
copper chelate
copper citrate
Copper Fructo-Oligosaccharides
copper gluconate
copper glycinate
copper glycinate chelate
copper lysinate HCl
Copper oxide
Copper picolinate

Synopsis of copper

Copper is an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in numerous enzymatic and physiological processes in the human body. It is involved in iron metabolism, energy production (ATP synthesis), neurotransmitter function, antioxidant defense, collagen formation, and immune system regulation. Copper acts as a cofactor for key enzymes such as cytochrome c oxidase, lysyl oxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and tyrosinase.

Copper helps:

  • Facilitate iron absorption and red blood cell formation (working in tandem with iron to prevent anemia)
  • Support connective tissue development, bone strength, and vascular integrity through collagen cross-linking
  • Protect against oxidative stress as a component of antioxidant enzymes
  • Maintain nerve function and brain signaling
  • Regulate immune response, particularly macrophage and neutrophil activity

It is stored in the liver and absorbed in the small intestine, with the body maintaining a tight balance—both deficiency and excess can cause serious health problems. Copper is found naturally in foods like liver, shellfish, nuts, seeds, whole grains, legumes, and dark chocolate.

Deficiency is rare but can result in anemia, fatigue, impaired immunity, bone abnormalities, and neurological dysfunction. On the other hand, excessive copper intake—especially from contaminated water or supplementation—can lead to toxicity, with symptoms like gastrointestinal distress, liver damage, or neurological issues.

Copper is often included in multivitamins and mineral complexes, sometimes with zinc, iron, or molybdenum. Because copper and zinc compete for absorption, proper ratio and balance are critical in supplement form.

Historical Use
Copper has a long and revered history in ancient medicine, metallurgy, and ritual, dating back over 10,000 years. Its earliest use was not only practical—as tools and currency—but also therapeutic and symbolic.

In Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, copper was used to make surgical tools and sterilize wounds. It was recognized for its antimicrobial properties, even before germ theory existed. Egyptian texts, such as the Ebers Papyrus (circa 1500 BCE), mention copper compounds being applied to eye infections and skin lesions.

The Greeks used copper oxide and copper sulfate for treating ulcers, sore throats, and inflamed tonsils. Roman physicians such as Pliny the Elder and Galen documented its use in eye salves and wound healing powders.

In Ayurvedic medicine, copper vessels were used to store drinking water—a practice still observed today. This method infuses water with trace amounts of copper, believed to enhance digestion, immunity, and detoxification. Copper is classified as a "rasayana" mineral, promoting longevity, reproductive health, and vitality.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), while copper was less commonly used in isolation, copper-based formulas and mineral elixirs occasionally featured in alchemical medicine for supporting energy and qi balance.

Today, copper continues to be recognized for its critical role in enzyme activity, antioxidant defense, and tissue repair. Its topical use in wound dressings, anti-bacterial surfaces, and skin creams is expanding, and internal supplementation is monitored closely in clinical settings for patients with anemia, bone loss, or degenerative neurological conditions.

Copper is used for these health conditions

Arthritis (Traditional)
Hair (graying) (Scientific)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Skin (infections) (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Scientific)

copper is used to support these body systems

Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Hair (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
Structural System (Scientific)