Cupric Oxide
Cupric Oxide, commonly known as Copper (II) Oxide, is an inorganic compound often used in various industries, including ceramics, pigments, and even batteries. In the context of health supplements, it is often used as a source of dietary copper, an essential trace mineral.
Here are some benefits of cupric oxide:
- Antibacterial properties: Cupric oxide nanoparticles have been shown to have antibacterial properties against various bacteria, including E. coli and S. typhimurium.
- Copper supplementation: Copper is an essential mineral that plays a role in many physiological processes, such as iron metabolism and regulation of gene expression. Copper supplementation has been studied for its potential benefits in preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the evidence is insufficient to support any conclusions about the association between copper concentrations and CVD risk or the impact of copper supplementation on CVD.
- Copper deficiency: Copper deficiency is rare, but if you are deficient, it is appropriate to supplement with copper after discussing it with your healthcare provider.
There are no case studies regarding the benefits of cupric oxide specifically. However, there are studies on the antibacterial properties of cupric oxide nanoparticles. The recommended dosage of cupric oxide or copper supplementation varies depending on the individual’s needs and health status. For low levels of copper (copper deficiency), doses up to 0.1 mg/kg of cupric sulfate per day have been studied. The safety of copper supplementation depends on the dose and duration of use. Doses of 1mg appear to be safe over the short term while higher doses should be avoided.
Potential side effects of copper supplementation include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as liver damage in high doses. Penicillamine, a drug used to treat Wilson’s disease, reduces copper levels, which is the intended use for Wilson’s disease. People with Wilson’s disease should avoid copper supplements or high-copper foods.
Sources:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/cupric-oxide
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Copper-HealthProfessional/
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/copper-benefits-4178854
- https://www.rxlist.com/copper/supplements.htm
- https://examine.com/supplements/copper/
- https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/minerals/copper
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7857137/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5608049/
