How to Clean Your Copper Cup
If you use a copper cup, it probably won't be long before you'll need to clean it. You may find that over time the cup can become oxidized, which can cause it to lose its shine and potentially affect its ability to provide health benefits. Oxidation on copper appears as a greenish-blue layer called patina, and it can be removed. Plus, regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of bacteria or other harmful substances.
Here are a few ways to clean a copper cup:
- Lemon and salt: Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle salt on one of the halves. Rub the salted lemon over the surface of the copper cup, using circular motions. Rinse the cup with water and dry it thoroughly.
- Baking soda and vinegar: Mix together a paste that is 3 parts baking soda and 1 part white vinegar. Apply the paste to the oxidized areas of the copper cup and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse the cup with water and dry it thoroughly.
- Ketchup: Apply a small amount of ketchup to the oxidized areas of the copper cup and let it sit for a few minutes. Rub the surface of the cup with a soft cloth or sponge to remove the oxidation. Rinse the cup with water and dry it thoroughly.
It's important to note that while these methods can help to clean an oxidized copper cup, they may not be effective in removing all stains or discoloration. We recommend avoiding using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on copper, as they can damage the surface of the cup. Instead, opt for natural cleaning solutions and gentle scrubbing techniques to help maintain the integrity of the copper.
Health Benefits of Copper
In Ayurveda, drinking water stored in a pure copper cup is a common practice believed to have several potential health benefits. Here are a few that are backed by research:
- Antimicrobial properties: Copper has been shown to have antimicrobial properties that purify and alkalize the water, helping to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. This can help to reduce the risk of waterborne illness and improve overall health [1].
- Bone metabolism: Studies have shown that a copper deficiency can lead to skeletal problems and bone fragility. Regular integration of copper has been shown to slow down bone mineral loss [2].
- Antioxidant properties: Copper is also a potent antioxidant, which means it can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This can have a number of potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and may help maintain thyroid function and heart health [3, 4].
Health tip: Copper promotes enzyme function, acting as a catalyst in iron absorption, free radical scavenging, and mitochondrial respiration. If the body gets too much copper, cellular components may become damaged [5].
In Ayurveda, it's all about balance and harmony. It's recommended that adults get 900 micrograms of copper per day, so we suggest storing water in a copper vessel overnight and drinking it in the morning, and getting the rest of your copper from diet.