Understanding the Health Benefits of Drinking Out of a Copper Mug

January 4, 2026 •

4 min read

According to ancient Ayurvedic texts, storing water in a copper vessel can balance the body's doshas and offer health advantages. The purported health benefits of drinking out of a copper mug range from improving digestion and immunity to providing anti-inflammatory properties, but proper usage is crucial to avoid potential risks.

Quick Summary

The practice of drinking water infused with trace amounts of copper can harness its antimicrobial properties, though scientific evidence for many claimed benefits is limited. Understand how to use copper mugs safely, the importance of moderation, and what to consider for overall well-being.

Key Points

Antimicrobial Action: When water is stored in an unlined copper mug, it has an antimicrobial 'oligodynamic effect,' purifying the water by killing harmful bacteria.
Supports Digestive Health: According to Ayurvedic tradition, copper-infused water can aid digestion, help eliminate toxins, and reduce stomach inflammation.
Boosts Immune Function: Copper is an essential trace mineral involved in various bodily functions that support the immune system and red blood cell production.
Avoid Acidic and Hot Liquids: Never use unlined copper mugs for acidic drinks (e.g., juice) or hot beverages, as this can cause unsafe levels of copper to leach into the liquid.
Clean Regularly: Proper and regular cleaning of copper mugs with natural agents like lemon and salt is necessary to prevent tarnishing and the buildup of toxic copper oxide.
Practice Moderation: It is important to consume copper-infused water in moderation, as excessive intake can lead to copper toxicity, which can damage the liver and kidneys.
Recognize Limitations: While beneficial, many anecdotal health claims about copper mugs lack extensive scientific evidence, and the benefits should not replace a healthy diet and lifestyle.

The Ancient Practice of Tamra Jal

For centuries, the practice of storing drinking water in a copper vessel, known as 'Tamra Jal' in Ayurveda, has been used as a wellness ritual. The belief is that leaving water in a pure copper container overnight allows minute copper ions to leach into the water. This process is called the 'oligodynamic effect,' and it is what proponents believe imparts various health benefits to the water. This ancient wisdom is now drawing modern scrutiny, with research examining the science behind these traditional claims.

The Science-Backed Effects of Copper Infusion

While many of the traditional benefits lack robust, large-scale scientific studies, several effects of copper are well-established. When water is properly infused, it can kill harmful microbes, which is a significant finding for water safety.

Antimicrobial and Water Purification

Copper's ability to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi has been scientifically confirmed. Studies have shown that when contaminated water is stored in a copper vessel, pathogens like E. coli and cholera are eliminated within several hours. This purifying effect is a major benefit, especially in areas with unsafe drinking water. The mechanism involves copper ions damaging the cell walls of the bacteria, leading to their death.

Supporting the Digestive System

Copper is an essential trace mineral that contributes to several physiological processes, including digestion.

Trace copper helps stimulate the digestive system and promotes the breakdown of food.
It can help kill harmful bacteria in the stomach, which some believe aids with issues like infections and inflammation.
In Ayurvedic tradition, it's considered a detoxifying agent for the stomach.

Boosting the Immune System

As a vital component in many enzymes, copper plays a supportive role in immune function. It is involved in the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells, which are crucial for carrying oxygen to the body's tissues. Some studies suggest that copper's antioxidant properties help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, further supporting the immune system.

Other Purported Benefits

While more research is needed, other traditional and emerging claims related to copper-infused water include:

Enhanced Skin Health: Copper is involved in producing melanin and collagen, which may help with skin regeneration and combating signs of aging.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Copper may have anti-inflammatory effects that could provide relief from conditions like arthritis.
Brain Function: Copper is essential for healthy brain function, supporting the nervous system and communication between nerve cells.

Comparison: Copper Mugs vs. Stainless Steel Mugs

For those considering the best material for their drinkware, here is a comparison of copper and stainless steel mugs:


Specification	Copper Mug	Stainless Steel Mug
Temperature Retention	Cools drinks quickly; does not insulate well for heat.	Excellent insulation for both hot and cold drinks.
Maintenance	Requires careful hand-washing and polishing to prevent tarnishing.	Dishwasher safe and easy to clean, low maintenance.
Taste Impact	May impart a faint metallic taste if not lined or if tarnished.	Flavor-neutral, does not affect the taste of beverages.
Durability	Softer metal, more prone to dents and scratches.	Highly durable, resistant to dents and rust.
Safety with Acidic Drinks	Can leach excessive copper if used with acidic liquids like citrus juice.	Non-reactive, safe for all types of beverages.

How to Use Your Copper Mug Safely

To maximize the potential benefits and minimize risks, it is essential to use a copper mug correctly. Moderation and proper care are key.

Best Practices for Use

Use pure, unlined copper mugs for cold, plain water only. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set safety limits for copper in drinking water.
Store water in the mug for 6 to 8 hours, such as overnight, to allow for optimal copper infusion.
Limit consumption of copper-infused water to a glass or two per day. It is not recommended to use the mug as your sole source of hydration throughout the day.
Never use unlined copper mugs for hot beverages or acidic liquids like coffee, tea, or juices. These can react with the copper and cause excessive leaching, which is dangerous.

Proper Cleaning and Maintenance

To prevent tarnishing and the buildup of copper oxide, which can be toxic, regular cleaning is necessary.

Clean the mug regularly with a natural mixture of lemon juice and salt.
Use a soft cloth to gently scrub the surface and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Avoid abrasive materials and chemical cleaners that could damage the copper.
Dry the mug completely after cleaning to prevent water spots and oxidation.

The Risks of Excessive Copper Intake

While trace amounts of copper are essential, too much can be harmful. Copper toxicity can occur with excessive intake and can affect the liver and kidneys.

Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Liver and Kidney Damage: In severe cases, chronic exposure to high copper levels can lead to organ damage.
Interference with Zinc: Excessive copper can interfere with the body's absorption of zinc, another vital mineral.
Neurological Effects: Some studies have linked excessive copper levels to neurological issues, though more research is needed.

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Copper Mug Usage

Drinking from a copper mug, a practice rooted in tradition, can offer potential benefits, primarily its antimicrobial effect on water purification. This can be a useful ritual, especially when considering water safety in certain contexts. However, many other health claims lack sufficient scientific backing and require more research. For a balanced approach, it is crucial to use copper mugs correctly and in moderation. By limiting consumption of copper-infused water, avoiding hot and acidic beverages, and ensuring regular, proper cleaning, you can enjoy this practice while minimizing the risk of copper toxicity. It's important to recognize that copper is a trace mineral, and the body only needs it in small quantities, easily obtained through a balanced diet. As always, individuals with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and children should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating new health practices.

For more information on the role of copper in health, consult authoritative sources like the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most significant and scientifically backed benefit is copper's antimicrobial property. When water is stored in a pure copper vessel for several hours, it purifies the water by killing harmful bacteria and microorganisms.

For the antimicrobial effects to work, water should be stored in a pure copper vessel for at least 6 to 8 hours, preferably overnight, before drinking.

It is generally safe to drink from a copper mug every day, but only in moderation. You should limit consumption to one or two glasses per day to avoid excessive copper intake and potential toxicity.

Excessive copper intake can lead to copper toxicity, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can cause damage to the liver and kidneys.

No, you should never use unlined copper mugs for hot beverages or acidic liquids like citrus juice, coffee, or tea. Heat and acidity accelerate copper leaching, which can make the liquid unsafe to consume.

To clean a copper mug safely, use a paste of lemon juice and salt or a mild dish soap with warm water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and harsh chemical cleaners. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately to prevent tarnishing.

Most commercial copper mugs designed for cocktails like the Moscow Mule are lined with stainless steel or nickel. You can often check the manufacturer's specifications. Unlined mugs will be pure copper throughout, and it is best to only use these with plain water.