Copper vessels have been used for storing and drinking water for thousands of years, and there is a good reason for it. Apart from their aesthetic value, copper vessels offer numerous health benefits that make them an ideal choice for storing and drinking water. In this article, we will explore the importance and science behind using copper vessels for drinking water.

Historical Importance

Copper has been used for making vessels for storing and drinking water for thousands of years. In ancient India, copper vessels were considered a symbol of prosperity and were used for storing and drinking water. The practice was prevalent in other parts of the world as well, including ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Copper vessels were widely used because they were readily available, easy to mold, and offered numerous health benefits.

Health Benefits of Copper

Copper is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in maintaining good health. Our body needs copper to carry out various metabolic processes, including the production of red blood cells, the absorption of iron, and the maintenance of strong bones and connective tissues. Copper also acts as an antioxidant and protects our body against free radicals that can damage our cells.

When water is stored in a copper vessel, small amounts of copper ions dissolve in the water. These ions are beneficial for our health in several ways.

Boosts Immunity: Copper has antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria and viruses present in water. Drinking water from a copper vessel can help boost our immune system and protect us from infections.

Aids Digestion: Copper is essential for the production of digestive enzymes in our body. Drinking water stored in a copper vessel can help improve digestion and alleviate digestive problems such as constipation, bloating, and indigestion.

Reduces Inflammation: Copper has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Drinking water from a copper vessel can help reduce joint pain, arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions.

Helps in Weight Loss: Copper can help regulate the thyroid gland, which is responsible for maintaining a healthy weight. Drinking water stored in a copper vessel can help regulate our metabolism and aid in weight loss.

Science behind Copper Vessels

The science behind using copper vessels for storing and drinking water is based on the principle of oligodynamic effect. The oligodynamic effect is a biocidal effect of metal ions that can kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The effect is more pronounced in metals like copper, silver, and gold.

When water is stored in a copper vessel, small amounts of copper ions dissolve in the water. These ions have a positive charge and are attracted to the negatively charged microbial cells. Once the copper ions come in contact with the microbial cells, they disrupt their cell membranes and DNA, ultimately killing the microorganisms.

Moreover, copper also has the ability to ionize water, which means it can give water a positive electrical charge. Positively charged water molecules are smaller in size and can easily penetrate our cell membranes, leading to better hydration and nutrient absorption.

How to Use Copper Vessels for Drinking Water?

Clean the vessel: Before using a copper vessel, it is important to clean it thoroughly. Wash the vessel with warm water and soap to remove any dirt or dust. Then, rinse it with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Store water overnight: Fill the copper vessel with water and let it sit overnight. This will allow the water to absorb copper ions from the vessel.

Drink on an empty stomach: The best time to drink water from a copper vessel is on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning. Drinking water stored in a copper vessel on an empty stomach can help flush out toxins from our body and improve digestion.

Do not store acidic or carbonated drinks: Copper reacts with acidic substances, and prolonged exposure can lead to the formation of toxic compounds. Therefore, it is important not to store acidic or carbonated drinks in copper vessels.

Clean the vessel regularly: Copper vessels tend to tarnish over time and may develop a greenish coating called patina. This is a natural process and does not affect the quality of water stored in the vessel. However, it is important to clean the vessel regularly to maintain its shine and hygiene. You can use a mixture of lemon juice and salt or a specialized copper cleaning solution to clean the vessel.

Replace the vessel periodically: Copper vessels can last for several years, but over time, they may develop small cracks or become worn out. It is important to replace the vessel periodically to ensure that you are getting the maximum health benefits from it.

Using copper vessels for drinking water is a time-tested tradition that offers numerous health benefits. Copper has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can boost immunity, aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and aid in weight loss. The science behind using copper vessels is based on the oligodynamic effect, which can kill microorganisms present in water. However, it is important to use copper vessels correctly and maintain them regularly to ensure maximum health benefits. If you are considering using copper vessels for drinking water, make sure to buy them from a reputable source and follow the instructions for use and maintenance.