Amber is a fossilized tree resin that has been appreciated for its color and natural beauty since ancient times. However, amber is also believed to have healing properties and has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. From ancient Egypt to medieval Europe, amber has been believed to contain mystical powers that can restore health and vitality.
In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in the purported healing properties of amber. Amber is thought to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting effects. Many believe that when worn close to the skin or ingested as a supplement, amber can help reduce pain, inflammation, and stress.
The origins of amber’s purported healing powers
The healing powers ascribed to amber seem to originate from ancient beliefs about its mystical origins. Amber typically forms from resin of ancient evergreen trees that fossilized over millions of years. Ancient peoples believed that amber originated from the setting sun, tears of birds, or from sea foam. They saw amber as solidified sunlight or essence of life, imbued with magical healing properties.
Ancient amber trade routes spread these beliefs about amber’s powers. Priests, mystics, and healers used amber for rituals and remedies. Amber use was recorded in ancient India, the Middle East, northern Europe, Egypt, China, and the Mediterranean. Each culture developed its own folklore and traditions around amber’s mystical energies and ability to heal and protect the body.
Amber in traditional medicine systems
Amber has played an important role in traditional healing systems around the world:
- In ancient Greece, Hippocrates prescribed amber powder mixed with honey to treat heart and abdominal pains. Greek doctors believed amber could draw disease out of the body and purify the blood.
- In traditional Chinese medicine, amber is considered to have warming properties and is prescribed for abdominal pain, joint problems, and fatigue. It is commonly combined with herbs in formulas.
- India’s Ayurvedic medicine uses amber to treat throat inflammation, respiratory problems, joint disorders, and low immunity. It is thought to strengthen the nervous system and revitalize tissues.
- Native American healers used amber to treat headaches, bone and joint problems, stomach issues, and ear infections. It was considered to have cleansing and calming effects.
Across cultures, amber was thought to have pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and cleansing effects on the body. Ancient doctors prescribed it for a wide range of health complaints.
Evaluating the evidence on amber’s healing properties
Many traditional claims about amber’s healing powers have not been scientifically validated. However, some studies suggest potential mechanisms behind its medicinal effects:
| Proposed Mechanism | Supporting Evidence |
|---|---|
| Anti-inflammatory effects | Animal studies show Baltic amber suppresses inflammatory markers like histamine and cytokines. Its succinic acid may inhibit inflammation. |
| Antioxidant properties | Amber contains antioxidant compounds like succinic acid, terpenes, and flavonoids. Studies show it can reduce oxidative stress. |
| Pain relief | Wearing amber close to the skin may exert an analgesic effect. One study found amber necklaces reduced teething pain in infants. |
| Immune stimulation | Components in amber like succinic acid may stimulate the immune system. More research is needed. |
While promising, more research in humans is needed to substantiate traditional claims about amber’s healing effects. Its mechanisms of action are not fully understood. Talk to your doctor before using amber therapeutically.
Using amber for health and healing
There are several ways people use amber to try to harness its purported healing powers:
- Wearing amber jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets, to keep the stone in contact with the skin
- Using amber essential oil aromatherapy for calming and pain-relieving effects
- Taking amber supplements to try to gain effects internally
- Drinking amber elixirs, infusions, or teas
- Using amber powder in poultices over inflamed or painful joints
When worn as jewelry, amber is thought to exert continuous healing effects. However, be cautious of cheap amber jewelry, as fake plastic resins are common. High quality Baltic amber jewelry provides the most reputed therapeutic effects.
Baltic amber benefits and properties
Baltic amber comes from the conifer forests of the Baltic region in Europe. It is sourced mainly from Lithuania, Latvia, Russia, and Poland. Baltic amber is considered the highest quality and has been used for medical purposes since antiquity.
Baltic amber is believed to contain 3-8% succinic acid, which contributes to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains terpenes like pinene, caryophyllene, and chamazulene, which are structurally similar to compounds produced in the human body. Some key proposed benefits of Baltic amber include:
- Reducing inflammation
- Easing joint and muscle pain
- Boosting immunity
- Soothing teething pain and calming babies
- Alleviating headaches
- Cleansing and detoxifying the body
However, most evidence is anecdotal. More controlled studies in humans are needed on Baltic amber’s effects.
Risks and side effects
For most people, amber is considered safe to use externally and in small amounts. However, a few precautions apply:
- Baltic amber teething necklaces are a choking hazard for infants. Use with extreme care.
- Avoid cheap amber jewelry, as plastic resin can irritate skin.
- Take care with heat, as amber is flammable.
- Discontinue use if rash or irritation occurs.
- Large oral doses may cause side effects like nausea, headache, or digestive issues.
- Talk to your doctor before taking amber supplements.
While considered safe in moderation, large or prolonged amounts of amber may have unknown effects. Use caution and consult your healthcare provider before using amber therapeutically.
Conclusion
Amber has a long history of traditional use as a healing tool and amulet. Ancient beliefs in its mystical origins contributed to the lore of its healing powers. While amber may provide benefits like pain relief and anti-inflammation when worn close to the skin, high-quality evidence for many of its effects is lacking. Still, amber continues to intrigue healers and remains popular in alternative medicine circles today. If you decide to try amber for any health concern, use care and consult a professional to guide you.
