Here are some of the many rocks and minerals currently used for medicinal purposes.

Last month I wrote about the use of rocks and minerals for medical purposes in ancient times. You can read that blog here: Ancient Use of Rocks and Minerals in Medicine and Drugs

In this blog I will write about minerals that our bodies need to survive, and some natural minerals that are still used today in modern medicine.

This information is presented strictly for education. We do not offer any medical advice, DO NOT suggest you ingest any type of rock or mineral, and firmly advise you to consult your doctor about any health issue you may be experiencing. Most people will get the minerals they need from food or taking a daily vitamin. Remember some minerals can be dangerous if taken in excess, so check out the Recommended Dietary Amount (RDA) and always consult your doctor before taking extra supplements.

Minerals Needed by our Bodies

Calcium is the most abundant element in our bodies, and it is stored in bones and teeth. It is critical for proper muscle and nerve function, hormone release, and it activates enzymes throughout the body. Calcium helps regulate blood pressure, helps muscles to contract, nerves to send messages, and blood to clot.

Copper is needed for firm skin, cartilage and ligaments. It has been used to disinfect wounds and treat infections. Copper assists with metabolizing fuel, making red blood cells, regulating neurotransmitters, and mopping up free radicals.

Iron is found in red blood cells, where it is responsible for carrying oxygen to our tissues. Iron helps make hemoglobin (the oxygen-carrying chemical in the body's red blood cells) and myoglobin (a protein in muscle cells). Iron is essential for activating certain enzymes and for making amino acids, collagen, neurotransmitters, and hormones.

Magnesium is needed for normal functioning of cells, muscles, nerves, bones, a strong immune system and a steady heart rhythm. Magnesium, like calcium, builds bones and teeth. It also helps to regulate blood pressure and blood sugar and enables muscles to contract, nerves to send messages, blood to clot, and enzymes to work.

Manganese is stored mainly in the liver and kidneys, this metal helps our bodies make DNA and RNA, break down food into energy and heal wounds. Manganese helps form bones and helps metabolize amino acids, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.

Potassium balances fluids in the body, helps to maintain a steady heartbeat and to make muscles contract, and may benefit bones and blood pressure.

Sodium balances fluids in the body, helps send nerve impulses, and helps make muscles contract.

Zinc is used throughout our bodies in many ways, including immune function, brain activity, and growth and development. It can reduce the impact of age-related macular degeneration. Zinc helps blood clot, helps make proteins and DNA, bolsters the immune system, and helps with wound healing and cell division. Zinc is used for cold medicines and sunscreens. Zinc is also sometimes used to treat a number of severe medical conditions, such as: Crohn’s disease, Down syndrome, Hansen’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Ulcerative colitis or inflammatory bowel disease, and Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Other rocks and minerals used for medical purposes still today:

Gold is used in surgery to patch damaged blood vessels, nerves, bones, and membranes. It is also used in the treatment of several forms of cancer.

Gypsum helps mold plaster casts to heal broken bones.

Lithium is commonly administered as a mood-stabilizer for those who suffer from certain mental health issues, such as bipolar.

Malachite is known for its antimicrobial properties.

Platinum is a precious metal that has been used in a variety of medications and tools since the early 1970s. Its dense, malleable properties are essential to the production of pacemakers, catheters, stents and even cancer therapies. Platinum-based agents are used in more than 50 percent of the world’s anticancer drugs.

Rubies are used in surgical lasers, and in gallstone removal.

Selenium helps combat dandruff and has shown impressive cancer-fighting properties.

Silicon is used for a number of medical procedures, including life-saving pacemakers.

Titanium, platinum, and gold are used for many medical needs, like repairing broken bones and teeth.

Zeolites have blood-clotting properties that have been used in the military and with medical personnel. They also aid in the cleanup of nuclear radiation, which may help cancer researchers prevent cancer.

The active ingredients in most antacids are various forms of calcium, magnesium, and aluminum; and bismuth is in Pepto Bismol.

Next month I plan to write about the metaphysical use of rocks and minerals for healing purposes.

Thanks for reading and happy hunting!