There are references in Greek literature to copper cuffs worn by gladiators. When in contact with human skin, older copper ornaments would often create green films on the flesh. These chelates, formed by the intereation of copper alloy and human sweat, are noted to have many healing qualities once absorbed by the skin. Copper creates an essential enzyme for the regeneration of cartilage and bone. It also flushes destructive radicals from body tissues, known as superoxide radicals.
Medical debate regarding the usefulness of copper in treating illness is fierce.
Experiments contrasting copper and aluminum bracelets on arithmetic patients show that copper reduces swelling in joints under all atmospheric conditions. Other experiments indicate that bones heal more quickly when exposed to copper salts. Records from Europe indicate that copper was used to ward off warts, hysteria and witches in the dark ages. The possibility that copper is just an exciting mental inspiration exists, but this possibility should not be underestimated. The use of copper for the stimulation of neural healing processes poses new and exciting pathways for medical science and natural healing.