Why Copper mug is good for water too , not just Moscow Mule!

Did you know that 70% of human body is made up of water!

Growing up in India, I often saw my grandmother storing water in a copper vessel and we were always encouraged to drink water in copper mugs. At that time that seemed to be the right choice as glass cups were not a thing but there’s much more to the story.

In our household, although we had glass and stainless steel cups, at least once a day my Mom would give us water in a copper cup. We would always have a copper vessel full of water in our kitchen for us to drink from. This is an age old ancient Ayurveda practice that is now also supported by scientific research.

What happens when you store water in a copper vessel/mug?

Copper is an essential trace mineral that is vital to human health. Storing water in a copper vessel creates a natural purification process also known as the Oligodynamic Effect. It can kill all the microorganisms, molds, fungi, algae and bacteria, present in the water that could be harmful to the body and make the water perfectly fit for drinking. In addition, water stored in a copper vessel, preferably overnight or at least for four hours, acquires a certain quality from the copper. It has antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps neutralize toxins.

According to Ayurveda, drinking copper-enriched water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach helps balance all three doshas (Kapha, Vata and Pitta) ensuring proper functioning of our organs as well as metabolic processes. Want to know more about dosha? Click here to read my blog on Doshas.

We all know the best plant based dietary sources of copper include whole grains, lentils, nuts, seeds, chocolate, cereals, potatoes, peas and some dark green leafy vegetables, however drinking 2 to 3 glasses of water that has been stored in a copper vessel for at least 4 hours to overnight is another convenient way to supply your body with enough copper. Remember, 2-3 glasses of this water is absolutely adequate. Its important to not overdo it!

In addition to the above, there are several other reasons why you should drink water stored in a copper mug

• Helps the digestive system perform better

Copper has properties that help kill harmful bacteria and reduce inflammation within the stomach, making it a great remedy for ulcers, indigestion and infections. It also helps cleanse and detox your stomach, regulates the working of your liver and kidneys, and proper elimination of waste and ensures the absorption of nutrients from food.

• Aids weight loss

The fact that it helps fine tune your digestive system makes it a good boost to your metabolic system hence weight loss. It also promotes the breakdown and elimination of fat cells.

• Helps heal wounds faster

Copper is known for its high anti viral, anti bacterial and anti inflammatory properties. It is also main component in the production of melanin that defines the colour of our eyes, hair, and skin. Melanin also helps keep the skin safe from sun damage, speeds up wound healing and covers up scars.

• Slows down ageing

Packed with very strong anti-oxidant and cell forming properties, copper fights off free radicals, one of the main reasons for the formation of fine lines. So if you are worried about fine lines and wrinkles, do try drinking out a copper mug!

• Improves Cardiovascular health

Copper helps regulate blood pressure, heart rate and lower one’s bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels

• Acts as an anti-carcinogenic

Copper has very strong antioxidant properties that helps fight off free radicals and negate their ill effects – one of the main reasons for the development of cancer.

• Protects you from infections

Due to its immense anti-bacterial properties, it is especially effective against E.coli and S.aureus, two bacteria that are commonly found in our environment and are known to cause severe illnesses in the human body.

• Regulates the functioning of the thyroid gland

Low copper levels have often been linked to thyroid disease. Drinking from a copper mug, helps elevate copper levels in the body thus regulating the functioning of thyroid gland.

• Combats arthritis and joint pain

Along with anti inflammatory properties, Copper also has bone and immune system strengthening properties, helping to mitigate arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Helps fight anemia

Copper aids the body’s absorption of iron, which plays a key role in fighting anemia

It is also safe to say that all the religious temples in India and across the world still use a copper cup (called “lota”) to store the holy water (ganga jal). This water is given to everyone to drink , during their temple visit. This has continued for many many decades and I know it will continue for many more decades to come.

So all in all, Copper mugs are not just good for Moscow Mule. They are good for drinking water too. It is hard to find copper vessels in Canada so I bought a couple of copper mugs (yes moscow mule mugs!) and I fill them up with water each night for the next morning. Amazon is now selling copper water bottles, jugs and mugs as well.

This is one of those small changes that bring big gains! We only need 2-3 glasses of this water everyday!

Have you been doing this already? If yes, would love to hear how it has benefitted you and your family, in comments below!