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| - Last Updated on November 7, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that copper-infused water can detoxify the body. We conducted a fact check and found this claim to be false.
The Claim
An Instagram post suggests that drinking water stored in a copper vessel for 8 hours can remove toxins from the body.
Fact Check
What are the health benefits of copper water?
Yes, there are some benefits. Drinking water stored in copper vessels has been popular in traditional practices, especially in Ayurveda. Copper is known for its antimicrobial properties. When water is kept in a copper container for several hours, tiny amounts of copper may dissolve into the water. This process is called the “oligodynamic effect.” This copper-infused water can help meet your daily copper needs.
However, drinking copper-infused water should not be seen as a cure-all. It may benefit those with low copper intake but generally, copper deficiency is very rare. This practice, however, won’t solve serious health issues or cure diseases.
Some social media posts claim that copper water can cure knee pain. For example, one post suggests that soaking walnuts and garlic in copper water can treat knee pain. However, this claim lacks scientific evidence.
Dr Annusuiya Gohil, MD Scholar at the All India Institute of Ayurveda, says, “Copper, or Tamra, is considered highly beneficial due to its natural properties. As a metal, it strongly influences what it touches, and water absorbs these qualities. This is why Indian culture has long practiced storing water in specific vessels based on the season, location, and time.”
Dr Gohil adds, “Copper is hot in potency, and water stored in it can enhance digestion and help with digestive ailments. Recent studies show that water stored in copper vessels has antifungal properties and impacts gut microbes, supporting Ayurvedic beliefs. However, it is essential to maintain the hygiene of copper vessels, as poor cleaning can lead to fungal buildup, making the water unsafe to drink.”
Dr Manan Arora, BAMS, Specialised in Chronic Disorders & Mental Wellness, New Delhi, explains, “In Ayurveda, copper water is known for balancing the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), supporting digestion, and boosting overall health. It helps reduce dryness (Vata), cools excess heat (Pitta), and energises circulation (Kapha). Copper water is believed to enhance Agni (digestive fire), helping digestion and nutrient absorption, and easing bloating.”
Dr Arora continues, “Copper’s natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties purify water and support immunity. It also benefits skin by promoting collagen, reducing wrinkles, and improving texture. Copper water is said to help brain function, improve memory, and lower anxiety. It supports liver and kidney health. To use, store water in a copper vessel for 6-8 hours and drink 1-2 glasses in the morning. Used mindfully, copper water can balance doshas, support digestion, and promote vitality.”
Can drinking copper-infused water really remove toxins?
No, drinking copper-infused water does not actually remove toxins from your body. The idea that it detoxifies you is not supported by science. Your body already has an effective detox system, mainly through the liver, kidneys, lungs, and skin. These organs work hard to filter and eliminate harmful substances. Also, the body maintains balanced copper levels by absorbing it from the intestines and the liver releasing it into bile, preventing both deficiency and toxicity. Drinking copper-infused water doesn’t speed up or improve this process.
Moreover, the term “toxins” is often misused. Most toxins are broken down by the liver or excreted by the kidneys. They aren’t flushed out simply by drinking copper water.
Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai, explains, “Many people wonder if drinking copper-infused water can remove toxins from the body. While copper does play a role in our health, it’s important to understand that our bodies are designed to detoxify naturally. Our liver and kidneys work hard to filter out harmful substances without needing any special help from copper. Drinking copper water may provide a small boost to your copper intake, which is good for overall health, but it won’t magically cleanse your body of toxins. It’s always best to focus on a balanced diet, plenty of water, and healthy lifestyle choices to support your body’s natural detoxification processes.”
We have also come across claims like curry leaves in copper water can cure anaemia. However, this isn’t correct.
Is copper-infused water safe to drink daily?
Yes, but moderation is key. Copper is safe in small amounts. Drinking water stored in a copper vessel now and then is unlikely to harm you. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 2 mg of copper per litre is a safe limit. Keeping water in a copper vessel for around 8 hours usually results in a small amount of copper, which is well below this limit.
However, too much copper can lead to toxicity. Over time, high copper intake can cause nausea, vomiting, and liver damage. So, enjoy copper-infused water, but don’t overdo it.
People with Wilson’s disease, a rare genetic disorder, are at high risk of copper buildup in their bodies. This happens because a gene mutation prevents the body from clearing out excess copper. This buildup can cause liver and brain damage, leading to conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, and even liver failure. Lifelong treatment with copper-removing medication or high doses of zinc can help prevent serious organ damage.
We spoke to Dr P Rammanohar, Research Director at the Amrita Centre for Advanced Research in Ayurveda (ĀCĀRA), about drinking water from copper vessels. He said, “In Ayurveda, drinking water that has been ionised and filtered in a copper vessel is commonly advised. The suggested daily intake of this copper water is 900 micrograms, while the maximum safe limit for copper is 10 milligrams per day. Keeping water in copper containers usually does not cause too much copper intake and is considered safe and healthy. Additionally, copper ionised water can kill certain bacteria and may help prevent diarrhoea.”
Do copper vessels have antimicrobial properties?
Yes, copper does have some antimicrobial effects. Studies show that copper can kill certain bacteria and viruses on contact. This quality makes it useful in healthcare settings. However, the antimicrobial effects are most significant when copper is in direct contact with germs, not necessarily in drinking water. While storing water in copper vessels can reduce bacterial contamination, it shouldn’t replace proper water purification methods.
THIP Media Take
In summary, drinking water from copper vessels occasionally can be safe and may add a small amount of copper to your diet. However, the claim that drinking water from copper vessels can detoxify the body is false. Your body already does a great job of detoxifying itself. While copper has some antimicrobial properties, it’s not a replacement for standard water purification.
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