Crystals have been used for centuries throughout history for healing. Some of the earliest historical sources reference crystal healing in the 4th millennium BC in Mesopotamia (a region in Iraq), one of the earliest known civilisations.
Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome used crystals to reflect status and wealth when worn. Crystals were also used for protection; Malachite being a common choice in Egypt to protect its wearer from negative energies.
Many other civilisations such as the Mayans, Sumerians, Japanese, Indians and Chinese believed crystals had healing, cleansing and protection qualities. They were often used in rituals for these purposes.
In China, crystal healing was used in acupuncture (some of the first acupuncture needles are thought to have been made from crystal) and gua sha, which is a massage scraping the body with a jade or bone tool to increase blood flow and redirect energy flows.
Soaking in Epsom salts is a common practice used to alleviate muscle pain, and is a common day example of crystal healing.
In recent years crystals have become more popular again, especially for healing. Many people believe it's purely a placebo as most of the evidence in support of crystal healing is anecdotal.
Many other people find it helps their chronic pain, sleep problems or whatever else they might seek to heal. Crystals are pretty affordable with small tumbled pieces costing anywhere from £1 to £5. If you're called to it, give it a go and see if crystal healing works for you.
Lauren x