Copper has been called the magic metal. Since the beginning of human civilization, this metal has been lauded for offering numerous health benefits, especially when it comes to drinking water from it. Even the ancient science of Ayurveda mentions the benefits of drinking water from copper vessels. But today, the advantages of copper water bottles are being backed by science.
Now, copper water has become the new emerging trend and with it the copper bottles have come to the limelight. These lifestyle accessories offer a step towards health without compromising on the style or functionality. With this guide, you can gain an insight into the ayurvedic as well as scientific benefits of drinking from copper water bottles.
Advantages of Copper Water Bottle According to Ayurveda
The ancient science of Ayurveda is a repository of information about the health benefits of Tamra Jal (or copper water). According to Ayurveda, copper is known to possess strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making it an essential part of daily health rituals.
- Balances the Three Doshas: Ayurveda defines three energies or doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, to be responsible for a person’s physiological, mental, and emotional health. Copper water is said to help balance these doshas by cooling the body and mind. It is said to be especially beneficial for those with a Pitta constitution, who are naturally more prone to heat and inflammation.
- Improves Digestion: One of the benefits of drinking from copper water bottles is that it can stimulate the digestive system, reduce acidity, and improve overall digestion. Copper is believed to help in the secretion of digestive enzymes and reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion.
- Detoxify the Body: Copper has natural detoxifying properties. It helps clean the liver and digestive system, eliminating harmful toxins from the body. According to Ayurveda, copper water is considered an excellent way to purify the body and maintain overall wellness.
Benefits of Drinking from Copper Water Bottles According to Modern Science
While Ayurveda provides a holistic view of benefits of drinking from copper water bottles, modern science has begun to recognize its advantages as well.
- Antimicrobial Properties: One of the primary benefits of drinking from copper water bottles is that they naturally purify and sterilize water. They are shown to remove many disease-causing germs, including Vibrio cholerae, Shigella flexneri, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium, that can cause diarrhea.
- Better Heart Health: Modern scientific studies have linked copper deficiency with cholesterol and high blood pressure. Researchers even recommended copper supplements to patients with heart failure. In this case, copper water bottles can replenish the copper content in one’s body.
- Improved Brain Functions: Copper is an essential nutrient in the body, tasked with making energy, connecting tissues, and blood vessels. It is also needed for the maintenance of the nervous system and smooth brain functioning, with professionals recommending 900 mcg (or 10 milligrams a day) of copper intake for adults.
- Boosts Immune Functions: Research suggests that ideal amount of copper in the body prevents neutropenia, a deficiency of white blood cells. So, one of the scientific benefits of drinking from copper water bottles includes the smooth functioning of the immune system.
- Collagen Production: Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins found in our body which plays a major role in keeping the health of skin, tendons, blood vessels, cartilage, and bones intact. Copper plays an important role in maintaining collagen and elastin. Therefore, one of the advantages of copper water bottles is that they help prevent skin aging and keep other important parts of your body healthy.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Copper Water Bottle
Though there are number of advantages of copper water bottles, there are, however, a few precautions that you must keep in mind before replacing your everyday bottle.
1. Keep Health Concerns in Mind
Both the deficiency and excess of copper in the body can be detrimental to health. A high intake of copper-rich water can lead to copper toxicity. So, remember to change the water in the bottle every day. Do not let the water sit in a copper bottle for extended periods of time.
2. Purchase High-Quality Copper Water Bottles
In order to reap the maximum benefits of drinking from copper water bottles, make sure that you purchase only a high-quality copper bottle. The best way to ensure that your copper bottle is high-quality (or pure copper) is to use a magnet. Copper, unlike many other metals, is not attracted towards magnets.
3. Clean the Bottle Regularly
Copper is prone to oxidation, which can lead to tarnishing. Clean your bottle regularly using natural cleaning agents, like lemon and baking soda, to maintain its shine and function. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the copper surface.
4. Not Suitable for Liquids Like Fruit Juices
If you are planning to carry freshly squeezed lemonade or orange juice, it is recommended that you find a different vessel than copper. Copper reacts well with acidic or alkaline liquids, leading to leaching or contamination.
5. Drink Water at Room Temperature
While cold water might be refreshing, ayurvedic practices suggest drinking water stored in copper bottles at room temperature to reap the full benefits. On the other hand, storing hot water in copper water bottles can cause metal to leach into the liquid, since copper is a highly conductive metal.
The Bottom Line
Copper water bottles are more than just a trend; they are a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern science. With their roots in Ayurveda and a growing body of research supporting their benefits, the advantages of copper bottles are multifold. These simple, sustainable lifestyle accessories can enhance your well-being.
So, whether you’re looking to improve digestion, boost your immune system, or simply enjoy a healthier lifestyle, including a copper water bottle in your daily routine can be a step toward a more balanced and health-conscious life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Is a copper water bottle good for you?
A. Copper water bottles are excellent everyday health companions that can improve your life in multiple ways.
Q. What are the disadvantages of copper water bottles?
A. An imbalance of copper, whether too little or too much, can be harmful to health. Consuming water with high copper content may result in copper toxicity. Therefore, it’s important to refill the water in the bottle daily. Avoid allowing the water to remain in a copper bottle for long periods.
Q. What does Ayurveda say about copper water?
A. Ayurveda claims that copper water has high antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties which can balance the three doshas of the body.
Q. Can we drink copper water all the time?
A. It is better to drink copper water in limited amounts. The RDA suggested for copper water is 900 mcg (or 10 milligrams a day) of intake for adults.
