Paracelsus claimed that space was filled with a cosmic fluid having magnetic properties. In addition, “Man has got within himself some magnetic force without which he does not exist.” This fluid fills all of space, is powered by the stars and planets, and can be guided by mineral magnets.

Imbalances in the body’s internal magnetic properties cause illness. By applying magnets directly to the body, the cosmic fluid could be guided into afflicted body parts to induce healing.

He personally observed patients being healed by passing a lodestone over their bodies.

Paracelsus believed that a subtle magnetic influence from the stars and planets affected the mind, while magnetic force in the Earth affected the body.