Copper (Cu) and its warm golden red hue is part of humanity. It's one of the most important metals of alchemy, aids plant health and is an essential element of animal life. Among the earliest metals known, copper is integral to development of civilizations worldwide.
Copper is found in the Earth’s crust, often combined with sulfur and oxygen in copper ores. It occurs as sulfides (like chalcopyrite) and oxides (like cuprite). Copper enters the environment through natural geological processes, volcanic activity and weathering of copper minerals.
Its ancient applications range from tools and weapons to stunning decorative arts. In alchemy it's a favorite metal of Maria Prophetissa (Mary the Jewess) in ancient Alexandria, c. 100 AD. Copper is also one of the seven metals of antiquity.
The Copper or Chalcolithic Age in history (c. 4000 - 3000) marks the beginning of ancient civilizations. Copper is soft enough to be hammered into shape, and hard enough to be used for tools, utensils and weapons. Use of copper dates back over 10,000 years.
Flint objects remain in use through Copper and succeeding Bronze Ages. Copper makes the Bronze Age possible, as bronze is an alloy of copper and tin (c. 88% and 12% respectively). The alloy is harder than pure copper.
The technique of smelting and combining metals propels humanity into an unprecedented era of war and progress. Bronze armor and weapons give a hefty advantage. Copper creates tools, coins, decorations, brewing vats, weapons, alloys, feed supplements and more.
From ancient to Renaissance alchemy, copper is often a base for creating gold or silver metals. Alchemical equipment is often made of copper. Influence of metals like copper, iron or lead (historically) can affect the processes and results.
Roman advances in copper metallurgy lead to methods still used today. In contemporary times, copper's versatility makes it indispensable in electronics, plumbing, and renewable energy technologies.
Copper has anti-microbial properties and is instrumental in the development of the wishing well in folklore. In early tradition, wells or water sources are believed inhabited by nixies or water spirits.
Copper and silver coins are tossed into the well because nixies are fond of such shiny things, and bestow luck upon the person. Copper and silver actually kill microbes, especially those causing the "rotten egg" sulfur smell, and help keep the water sweet.
Copper and the Health of Plants
Copper is an essential micronutrient for plant growth, important to several biochemical processes. It aids in photosynthesis, respiration, and the synthesis of lignin, a natural polymer crucial for plant structure.
In plants, copper is involved in photosynthesis, respiration, and synthesis of lignin, a key structural component. When copper is deficient, plants show specific signs such as stunted growth, wilting, and discolored leaves.
Copper-deficient plants can suffer a decrease of up to 50% in photosynthesis rates, leading to reduced crop yields. In adequate amounts, copper enhances enzyme function and boosts plant metabolism. It helps create chlorophyll and improves nutrient absorption.
Copper in Fertilizer
Copper is often found in fertilizers to ensure crops have the nutrients for optimal prosperity. Copper deficiencies can lead to stunted growth, yellow leaves and poor fruit development. As a micronutrient copper promotes plant vitality and prevents diseases.
Farmers use copper sulfate and chelated copper to improve soil nutrient availability. The right amount of copper can increase vegetable yields by 30% in regions with identified copper deficiency. Careful application is critical, as too much copper can spoil vegetation.
Farmers evaluate soil to determine need for copper applications. This strategy enables optimal health and productivity for crops. Acknowledging copper's importance for plant health, many fertilizers use copper compounds to ensure plants get enough of this important micronutrient.
Copper and Human Health
Like plants, humans require copper, albeit in smaller quantities. It's needed to metabolize iron, form connective tissue and keep the immune system healthy. Copper supports various bodily functions, including iron metabolism and the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
Copper is naturally found in foods such as nuts, seeds, whole grains, shellfish, and dark leafy greens. However, deficiencies can arise, particularly among individuals with poor diets or certain health conditions.
Symptoms of copper deficiency include anemia, weakened immune function, osteoporosis, and neurological problems. A well-balanced copper intake is essential to maintain individual health and vitality.
Copper in Medicine
In addition to its dietary necessity, copper has antimicrobial properties in medicine. It is used in medical applications, including sterilization of surfaces and development of medical devices.
Copper-infused surfaces can reduce bacteria levels by 90%. Copper-based compounds are also being explored in treatments for certain cancers, showing its promising potential in modern medicine.
Copper helps promote joint health and speeds wound healing. In natural health, copper bracelets are considered to help reduce inflammation, though it's not clear how much help they actually are.
Copper has the charming ability to turn skin green. This is due to its natural production of verdigris, a protective coating or patina formed by the metal. In the 18th and 19th centuries verdigris is popular with artists as a green-blue pigment.
Signs of Too Much Copper
While copper is vital for health, balance is crucial. Too much of a good thing can be toxic.
In Plants:
Leaf Discoloration or Scorching: Leaves turn dark brown or have a mottled appearance.
Wilting: Wilting or drooping leaves can indicate toxicity.
Reduced Growth: Stunted growth and poor yield are common symptoms.
Distressed soil might take on a blue-green hue, showcasing the surplus of copper ions.
In Humans:
Nausea and Vomiting: High levels of copper can lead to gastrointestinal illness.
Confusion: more so than usual.
Liver Damage: Excessive copper can result in liver dysfunction.
Neurological Symptoms: Conditions like Wilson's disease can cause copper accumulation in the body, leading to various neurological issues.
In plants and humans since both deficiency and toxicity can cause health problems.
Signs of Copper Deficiency
In Plants:
Stunted Growth: Copper deficiency often leads to inadequate flowering or fruiting.
Leaf Abnormalities: Plants may exhibit twisted or malformed leaves.
Reduced Photosynthesis: A lack of copper can result in chlorosis (yellowing of leaves due to insufficient chlorophyll).
In Humans:
Anemia: A lack of copper can contribute to iron deficiency anemia.
Fatigue: Low energy levels and fatigue are common symptoms of copper deficiency.
Bone Fragility: Insufficient copper can lead to reduced bone density and increased fracture risk.
Recognizing copper deficiency is critical. In plants, classic indicators such as yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilted tips signal trouble. Specifically, interveinal chlorosis, in which leaves have yellow patches between the veins, is due to a lack of copper.
In humans, deficiencies may manifest as fatigue, high cholesterol levels or heart problems. Neurological symptoms like numbness and tingling can also be present. Regular dietary evaluations can mitigate these deficiencies.
Livestock Copper Needs
Livestock animals require copper in their diets. It is essential for growth, reproduction, and overall health. However, the required copper levels vary by species. For instance, sheep are particularly sensitive to copper excess, while cattle and pigs may require higher amounts.
Like humans, livestock and wild animals need copper for physiological processes. Copper is an essential element for body, bone and wool growth, pigmentation, healthy nerve fibers and white blood cell function.
Livestock, particularly sheep, are especially sensitive to copper levels. Deficiencies can lead to anemia, lower growth rates, and reproductive problems. Providing livestock with a well-balanced diet is vital for health and productivity.
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