What Does Drinking from a Copper Mug Do for You?

December 25, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2012 study, storing contaminated water in a copper vessel for 16 hours significantly reduces harmful microbes, leading to safer drinking water. This ancient practice of using copper for water purification is just one aspect of what does drinking from a copper mug do for you, and it has garnered a resurgence in modern wellness trends.

Quick Summary

Drinking water from a copper mug may offer several benefits, including leveraging its natural antimicrobial properties to purify water and providing trace amounts of an essential mineral. The practice, rooted in Ayurvedic tradition, should be approached with moderation and proper care to prevent potential risks associated with excessive copper intake. For most people, a balanced diet already provides sufficient copper.

Key Points

Antimicrobial Properties: When water is stored in a pure copper mug for several hours, it undergoes a natural purification process that kills harmful bacteria and microorganisms.
Source of Essential Copper: Drinking water infused with copper can provide trace amounts of this essential mineral, which supports brain function, iron absorption, and overall health.
Supports Ayurvedic Tradition: The practice aligns with the ancient Ayurvedic principle of 'Tamra Jal,' which posits that copper-infused water balances the body's energies.
Risk of Copper Toxicity: Excessive intake of copper can be harmful, so moderation is key. Do not over-consume copper-infused water.
Caution with Acidic Liquids: Never use unlined copper mugs for acidic beverages like soda or fruit juice, as this can cause unsafe levels of copper leaching.
Proper Maintenance is Crucial: Regular cleaning with natural agents and thorough drying are essential to prevent tarnish and ensure the mug's long-term safety and effectiveness.
Safe Storage Practice: To reap the purifying benefits, fill the mug with filtered water and let it sit overnight at room temperature, as recommended by ancient practices and supported by some modern studies.

The Scientific and Traditional Rationale Behind Copper Drinkware

The practice of storing water in copper vessels, known in Ayurveda as 'Tamra Jal,' has been revered for thousands of years for its purported health benefits. Modern science has begun to investigate these claims, confirming some while debunking others rooted in tradition and anecdote. Understanding the real effects of what does drinking from a copper mug do for you requires separating well-researched facts from popular lore.

The Antimicrobial Effect

One of the most scientifically substantiated benefits of copper is its potent antimicrobial property. When water is stored in a pure copper vessel for several hours, copper ions naturally leach into the liquid, performing a process called the 'oligodynamic effect'. This effect is capable of destroying or inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Studies have shown that storing contaminated water in copper vessels can significantly reduce the presence of dangerous pathogens like E. coli and Vibrio cholerae. This purification requires time, typically 6 to 8 hours, for the effect to be significant.

Destroys Harmful Pathogens: Copper ions disrupt the cellular membranes of bacteria, causing them to break down and die.
Reduces Risk of Waterborne Illnesses: Can be a simple way to improve water safety for those with access to less-than-perfect drinking water.

A Source of an Essential Mineral

Copper is a trace mineral essential for human health, playing a crucial role in various bodily functions, including energy production and iron absorption. While most people obtain sufficient copper from a balanced diet, drinking copper-infused water can provide a supplementary source. The amount of copper leaching into water from a vessel is typically small and within safe daily intake limits. Copper is vital for iron absorption and utilization, supports cognitive function by aiding neurotransmitter synthesis, and is a key component in forming collagen and elastin.

Comparison of Lined vs. Unlined Copper Mugs


Feature	Unlined Copper Mug	Lined Copper Mug (e.g., Stainless Steel)
Acidic Drinks	Not Recommended due to high risk of copper leaching.	Safe; Liner prevents interaction with acidic liquids.
Antimicrobial Properties	Possesses natural antimicrobial effect on water stored overnight.	Minimal to no antimicrobial effect.
Trace Mineral Intake	Can contribute small amounts of copper to water.	No copper contribution.
Cold Drinks	Excellent conductor, keeps drinks very cold.	Good thermal properties, liner insulates slightly.
Maintenance	Requires regular cleaning with natural acidic agents.	Easier to clean, less prone to interior tarnishing.
Traditional Practice	Aligns with the ancient Ayurvedic practice.	A modern solution that negates traditional infusion.

Potential Risks and Best Practices

Excessive copper consumption can lead to toxicity, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Moderate intake is key. Drinking one or two glasses of copper-infused water daily is generally safe. Avoid acidic beverages like juices or sodas in unlined copper mugs to prevent accelerated copper leaching. Always use clean, filtered water. To gain antimicrobial benefits, store water for 6-8 hours. Hand-wash regularly with mild soap and use lemon and salt for polishing. Consult a healthcare provider if you have medical conditions.

Conclusion

Drinking from a copper mug offers traditional water purification and trace mineral supplementation. Significant antimicrobial effects require storing water for several hours. For most individuals with a balanced diet, the mineral impact may be subtle. Practice moderation, proper hygiene, and understand risks, especially with acidic drinks in unlined vessels. Following these guidelines allows safe enjoyment of this tradition as part of a wellness routine.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is generally safe to drink water from a pure copper mug in moderation. However, it is not safe to drink acidic beverages, such as fruit juices or soda, from an unlined copper mug, as the acid can cause excessive copper to leach into the drink.

For the water to acquire the antimicrobial and copper-infusion benefits, it should be stored in the copper vessel for at least 6 to 8 hours, ideally overnight.

Yes, research confirms that copper has antimicrobial properties. Storing water in a copper vessel for several hours can kill harmful bacteria and microorganisms, purifying the water to some extent.

The main risk is copper toxicity from excessive intake, which can cause symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. This is most likely to occur from improper use, such as drinking acidic liquids from an unlined mug or overconsumption.

A lined copper mug is safer for serving a variety of drinks, especially acidic ones like a Moscow Mule, as it prevents any copper from leaching into the beverage. An unlined mug is only suitable for plain water and is preferred for the traditional practice of infusing water with copper.

Hand-wash your copper mug with warm water and mild soap. For polishing or removing tarnish, you can use a natural paste of salt and lemon juice or vinegar. Never put it in the dishwasher.

Excessive intake of copper can lead to copper poisoning. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare and severe cases, it can cause liver or kidney damage.