Amber Throughout Centuries

Butterfly frozen in amber

Amber played different roles throughout centuries and it has its part in history of human kind. Prehistoric hunters living in Baltic region wore amber pendants as amulets for protection and luck. Pendants had usually shape of round plates decorated with primitive drawings of people or animals. Primeval man believed in magical and supernatural properties of amber, which explains large number of amber amulets representing worship of Sun.

In ancient Rome amber became very popular as material for decorative items. It was also believed that person wearing amulets made from amber would be protected from misfortune and be blessed with good health. Ancient doctors prescribed powdered amber for various diseases and health problems.

Beliefs in therapeutic and protective properties of amber carried on to middle ages and survived hundreds of years. Medicine in Middle Ages found new applications of amber for different health issues including urinary problems, diarrhea, tooth ache, stomach ache, rheumatism and many more. Nicolaus Copernicus, who was not only a great astronomer but also a physician, recommended taking amber powder for cardiac diseases. An original prescription written by Copernicus is kept in Uppsala University in Sweden. In China ground amber mixed with opium was widely used as pain killer and sedative.

Medical documents from XVIth century also mention magical properties of amber. They recommended wearing amber objects close to body which was supposed draw “good powers” and keep away the evil eye.

Today, science explains properties of amber and its influence on our bodies and health. It has been proven that succinite acid stimulates nervous system, regulates functioning of kidneys as well as plays anti-inflammation and antitoxic role. Succinite acid and oils which also destroy free radicals and some bacteria are widely used in cosmetic industry.