History of using copper
- Use of copper in history is found to be about 10,000 years ago. In 3000 B.C., coppers ores were found in the island of Cyprus. Romans named the metal as cyprium which was later known as cuprum and then copper in English
- In India copper was used to sterilize drinking water 2600 and 2200 B.C. It is still used in many households for storing water
- In Egypt copper compounds were recommended for headaches, burns, wounds, and boils (1500 BC)
- Greeks used it for treatment of ulcers and healing wounds
- In the 20th century, a German physician observed copper mine workers to be free from Arthritis
- Earlier water supply used to be through copper pipes and taps and its anti-microbial properties were observed.
Ayurveda recommendation
Copper is considered an essential mineral for our body. Ayurveda recommends storing water overnight in a copper jug and drinking the same in the morning keeps good health. The water stored this way is called ‘Tamra Jal’ Ayurveda reckons Copper jug water to balance all the three doshas (Body humors- Kapha Vata and Pitta) and get rid of Piles, skin diseases, inflammation, respiratory disorders, spleen and gynecological disorders.
Benefits of copper
- Copper is primary element to produce melanin (pigmentation of eyes, hair and skin) in our bodies.
- Copper is also an antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic that prevents cell damage and slows aging.
- Copper also helps in healing wounds and relieving pains
- Copper helps in formation of new cells, iron absorption and sugar absorption
- Copper is widely known as brain stimulant. Copper possess anti-convulsions properties and prevent from seizures. It synthesizes phospholipids that are essential for myelin (nerve coating) formation.
- Copper has anti-microbial properties and can inhibit growth of harmful bacteria like E.Coli or Staphylococcus aureus which are viable on glass or stainless steel. Storing water only for about Three Hours in a copper jug can kill harmful bacteria. It can prevent from amoebiasis, dyesentry, diahrrhea, cholera, jaundince and other water poisoning.
- Copper has anti-inflammatory properties and helps in arthritis and other inflammatory pains
- Copper is needed for general cardiovascular health
- Copper may prevent from premature aging and degenerative diseases, heart diseases, autoimmune diseases, arthritis, cataracts, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes
- It regulates thyroid glands
- It is essential for hemoglobin synthesis, bone strength and immunity building
- Copper helps in maintaining digestive health
- Wish to lose weight! drink ‘Tamra jal’ (water stored in copper jug) as it will regulate your fat.
Foods that contain copper
Honey, beans, whole wheat, green leafy vegetables etc. contain copper.
Deficiency of copper
Deficiency of copper can cause anemia, osteoporosis, low WBCs, elevated cholesterol, low skin pigmentation, thyroid problems, nervous system disorders etc.
Recommended dosage
Human body can not synthesize copper and to carry out normal metabolic functions copper intake is essential. Average intake of 1.2 mg/day (trace amounts) is recommended for adults. In a copper jug, copper intake is only in trace amounts that can’t be toxic*.
Tips to buy and use
- A jug, as it goes would have a vessel to store, a handle, a spout and most likely a lid. Buy go for a size that can hold a liter of water. Prefer a jug with a lid.
- For health benefits, ensure the jug that you buy is pure copper. Do not get tempted into the disguised looks, high priced antiques with attractive copper exteriors and steel or a different metal inside.
- Other foods or liquids react with copper. Therefore use the jug only for water storage if it is pure copper
- Do your research, read buyers descriptions, vendor scores or reviews
Cleaning your copper jug
Copper gets dark stains with use and exposure to air, why try the chemicals to clean it and get those nauseating harmful smells.
- Just use a piece of lime to get the same shiny finish of the time when you bought it.
- If not lime, try salt or baking soda and vinegar to clean it
*Toxicity due to over dosage
Excessive intake can be harmful also leading to high blood pressure, psychiatric disorders etc. A person should stop taking copper supplements and seek medical help immediately if having symptoms of anemia, nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain.
Pregnant women or people already on some kind of copper supplementation should consult their physicians before trying the product. Excessive copper intake may cause Zinc deficiency