Copper is one of the most important minerals essential for human body and health. It is involved in a great deal of chemical processes in human body, like energy production or healing processes, and so on. Just like all other minerals, copper can not be formed or generated by human body, therefore the only way to obtain it is from what we eat. That is why it is vital to add food sources of copper to our daily diet, in order to provide an adequate intake and allow out body enjoy all important health benefits of copper.

The role that this mineral plays for normal function of our body systems, organs and functions is impossible to underestimate. It assists in maintaining excellent function of the nerve system, supports our sense of taste, is involved in skin and hair coloring. Also, copper helps lowering LDL cholesterol levels in the body and preventing blood clot formation, stimulates the function of the immune system and takes part in regulating blood pressure, protects against inflammatory bowel disease and speeds up wound healing, prevents osteoporosis and arthritis.

Copper is vital for growths and development of body tissues, including bones and brain tissues, and also copper is involved in red blood cell formation.  A proper consumption of copper is linked to great skin health, stronger nervous system and healthy muscle tissues. Health benefits of copper include glowing and healthy hair, less menstrual flooding and less water retention. It is possible to enjoy the above mentioned health benefits of copper when this element is received from either natural sources, or from numerous mineral supplements.

Food sources of copper embrace grains and beans, dried fruit, potatoes, tomatoes, avocado, bananas, coconuts, papaya, black pepper, leafy greens, seafood, kidney and liver,  mushrooms, nuts, bitter chocolate, cocoa and others. Herbal sources of copper include skullcap, horsetail, chickweed, burdock, sage and other medicinal herbs. The recommended daily intake of copper that is set up by the FDA is the following: 200-220 mcg for infants, 350-450 mcg for children 1-8 years, 500-700 mcg for children 8-13 years, 850-900 mcg for teenagers 14-18 years, 900 mcg for adults over 19 years, 1-1.3 mg for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

If taken in recommended amounts, copper does not cause toxicity and negative side effects. Copper deficiency can be displayed by such signs as low body temperature, anemia, low white blood cell count, thyroid disorders, weak bones and so on. Sometimes copper deficiency can be cause by surgeries or gastrointestinal diseases, and it is possible to use special herbal supplements with copper to satisfy the body’s needs for this mineral. Excessive copper intake is linked to such symptoms as headaches, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, metallic taste in the mouth.

Author Info: Hi! My name is Carla and I am a 5th year medical student at HYMS. I am interested in alternative medicine and I have done months researching the topic of herbal medicine. Besides, I like interviewing people and learning more about their experiences with one or another type of herbal treatments. I am willing to contribute to this site with my knowledge, and I would be happy to help you out to the best of my ability with any specific questions or problems related to alternative medicine.

One Response to “Herbal Minerals: Copper”

1. sid Says:
   September 4th, 2011 at 4:06 pm

   Hi Carla,
   thanks for sharing valuable information, Could you please tell me which food/herb can effectively fight
   stomach ulcers?

   thanks for your time and consideration.

   Sidharth