Colloidal copper is a liquid mineral supplement that's derived from aluminosilicate-containing clays or humic shale deposits. Proponents say that your body better absorbs minerals in colloidal form than in tablet or capsule form. Science, however, does not back this claim, according to "Timeless Secrets of Health and Rejuvenation," by Andreas Moritz. Rather, the benefits of colloidal copper most likely come from supplementation with the mineral itself.
Corrects Deficiency
Colloidal copper supplements can correct a copper deficiency in your body, according to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH. Copper deficiency is most likely to occur if you've got a malabsorption syndrome such as short bowel syndrome, celiac disease or sprue; if you suffer cystic fibrosis; if you are elderly; or if you are receiving intravenous total parenteral nutrition, or TPN, or following another restrictive diet. You need copper for many biochemical reactions in your cells. Copper is important for bone growth, in helping your body use sugar and for nerve function, according to the Mayo Clinic. It has a role in regulating gene expression, cellular metabolism, forming connective tissue, and in iron storage, absorption and metabolism, according to NIH. You need 0.9 mg copper each day, which is the daily recommended intake in the United Sates, according to "Mind Boosters" author Dr. Ray Sahelian.
Disease Treatment and Prevention
Scientists are studying copper supplementation for preventing and treating a host of health conditions. These include Alzheimer's disease prevention, treatment of age-related macular degeneration, Arthritis treatment, cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis prevention, protecting enamel and plaque prevention, boosting immune function, treating osteoporosis and skin rejuvenation. NIH gives all of these uses a "C" rating, meaning more scientific research is needed before recommending for or against them.
Unproven Benefits
Tradition and scientific theory promote copper supplementation for treating a host of conditions. These include weight gain, allergies, bronchitis, pneumonia, anemia, athletic performance, muscle aches or cramps, premenstrual syndrome, hyperactivity, learning disabilities, cognition, senility, bone healing, cataract prevention or progression, cystic fibrosis, depression, fatigue, high blood pressure or cholesterol, Hodgkin's disease infertility, optic nerve damage, as an oral deodorant, psoriasis, stretch marks, stomach ulcer and wound healing. Using copper supplementation to treat these conditions, however, has not been tested in humans for safety or effectiveness, according to NIH. You should be evaluated by a health care provider before trying copper supplements if you have any of these conditions, as some are potentially serious, advises NIH.
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