Use of the metal Copper is a traditional Indian practice that is still followed for its health benefits. According to the ancient wisdom, copper is an excellent conductor of heat, slightly acidic in nature and has unbeatable antimicrobial properties. Even today it is a practice in several households across India to consume water stored in copper vessels as it is said to eliminate various viruses and bacteria.

 Copper Vessels

Ayurveda strongly recommends drinking water stored in copper vessels as it helps in reducing ageing by increasing the collagen present in our tissues. According to a research paper published by the American Society for Microbiology, “Metallic copper surfaces kill microbes on contact.” The paper further explains that the reaction occurs literally in minutes. The current trend in many hospitals across US and UK is to redo the interiors with copper coated door knobs, taps, trollies and other places of regular human contact, to ward off several bacterial infections.

Benefits of consuming water from Copper vessels

 

Storing water in a copper vessel and consuming it the next day has several health benefits.

  • Ayurveda recommends drinking water stored in copper vessel (Tamara Jal) for those suffering from anaemia due to copper deficiency.
  • For those suffering from vitiligo, water stored in copper vessels works wonders as it reduces the production of melanin.
  • Water and food stored in copper vessels are known to regulate blood pressure and heart beats, lower cholesterol levels.
  • Copper aids in optimal functioning of the thyroid gland and it is beneficial in both the cases of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

How to store:

  • Invest in pure copper vessels like jugs and glasses.
  • Rinse it thoroughly with plain water before the first use. Store plain drinking water over night and consume it the next day.
  • Don’t overdo it as too much of copper in the body might cause gastrointestinal distress. Drinking 2 to 3 glasses of water is enough to gain the benefits.

Important: Never store milk, buttermilk, dairy products, and citrus juices as its acidic properties react with the copper metal and cause food poisoning. 

How to cook:

  • Copper is an excellent conductor of heat and cooking in these vessels might be a little tricky as there is a chance of food being burnt very fast.
  • Never use copper vessels which are not unlined. The insides of the vessels need to be coated with other materials like stainless steel or aluminium.
  • Learn about the acidic nature of the vegetables, fruits and other ingredients while cooking in copper vessels, as foods that are acidic in properties cause nausea, food poisoning if cooked in these utensils.

How to Maintain Copper Vessels:

  • Tamarind mixed with salt is an excellent way of keeping copper vessels.
  • Add salt mixed it white vinegar and rub it after 15 minutes. Rinse it after 15 minutes for sparkling copper vessels.
  • Smear salt on the lemon half and rub it on the vessel. Clean it with plain water.