Forget the Stanley Cup—copper water bottles are the latest wellness obsession making waves on the internet. With claims of slowing aging, improving skin health, regulating thyroid function, and boosting immunity, these bottles are being marketed as a must-have for better health. But do they live up to the hype, or is this just another wellness fad built on anecdotal beliefs?

To separate fact from fiction, let’s explore the origins of this trend, the science behind copper-infused water, and whether it truly offers health benefits.

The practice of drinking water stored in copper vessels is not a new-age wellness hack. It traces back thousands of years, particularly in India and other parts of South Asia, where it is deeply rooted in Ayurvedic medicine. Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of healing, promotes balance among three biological energies—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Copper, known as “Tamra” in Sanskrit, is believed to harmonize these energies while also purifying water.

The Ayurvedic practice of storing water in copper vessels, known as Tamra Jal, is said to:

• Balance doshas (biological energies)
• Improve digestion by eliminating harmful bacteria
• Boost immunity with its antioxidant properties
• Promote youthful skin by combating free radicals
• Aid metabolism and support weight management

This centuries-old practice has now resurfaced in the wellness world, but does modern science support these claims?

Is There Any Science To Back Copper’s Health Benefits?

While ancient wisdom highlights the therapeutic benefits of copper-infused water, scientific studies provide a mixed bag of evidence. Copper is undeniably an essential trace mineral that plays a role in multiple bodily functions, including red blood cell production, nerve health, and immune system function. However, does simply drinking from a copper bottle significantly enhance these benefits?

1. Copper’s Antibacterial Properties

One well-supported claim about copper bottles is their ability to purify water. Copper has potent antimicrobial properties, making it effective in killing harmful bacteria. Studies have shown that storing water in copper containers for several hours can reduce bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, which cause foodborne illnesses.

A 2012 study published in the Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition found that copper pots significantly lowered bacterial contamination in water, reducing the risk of diarrhea. While this is beneficial in regions with unsafe drinking water, it may be less relevant in countries where tap water is already well-regulated and filtered.

2. Improved Digestion and Gut Health

Copper is believed to stimulate peristalsis, the movement of the digestive tract, and support enzyme production. Some proponents claim that drinking copper water helps prevent acidity and indigestion. While copper does play a role in gut health, there is limited scientific evidence proving that copper-infused water directly improves digestion beyond what a normal diet already provides.

3. Anti-Aging and Skin Health

One of the most attractive claims of copper water is its potential to slow aging and improve skin health. Copper is essential for collagen production, which keeps skin firm and youthful. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress. However, the amount of copper absorbed from drinking water alone may not be significant enough to produce noticeable anti-aging effects.

4. Thyroid and Metabolism Support

Copper is involved in thyroid function, and a deficiency in copper can contribute to hormonal imbalances. However, there is no solid evidence proving that drinking copper water has a direct impact on thyroid regulation. Most people get sufficient copper through dietary sources like nuts, seeds, whole grains, and seafood.

Potential Downsides of Drinking From Copper Bottles

While copper is beneficial in small amounts, excessive intake can be harmful. Long-term exposure to high doses of copper can lead to toxicity, resulting in nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and, in severe cases, liver and kidney damage. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that drinking water should contain no more than 2 mg of copper per liter.

To avoid toxicity, it’s essential to use copper bottles correctly and in moderation.

Practical Tips for Using Copper Bottles Safely

If you decide to incorporate a copper bottle into your wellness routine, follow these precautions:

Clean Regularly: Use lemon juice or a mix of salt and vinegar to clean the bottle, as copper can oxidize over time.

Store Overnight: Allow water to sit in the bottle for 6–8 hours to allow copper ions to infuse into the water.

Use in Moderation: Drink copper-infused water once or twice a day. Avoid overconsumption to prevent copper toxicity.

Avoid Acidic Liquids: Do not store citrus juices, soda, or other acidic beverages in copper bottles, as they can react with the metal and cause excessive copper leaching.

Copper water bottles blend ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern wellness trends, offering a natural way to boost hydration and potentially enhance health. Scientific research confirms copper’s antimicrobial properties and its role in essential bodily functions. However, other claimed benefits, such as anti-aging and thyroid regulation, lack robust evidence.

For individuals in regions with unclean water, copper bottles may offer an extra layer of protection against bacterial contamination. However, for those with access to clean, filtered water, the benefits may be minimal. Ultimately, incorporating a copper bottle into your routine can be a personal choice—one that should be approached with an understanding of both its potential benefits and risks.

If you choose to try it, remember that moderation is key. Ancient wisdom often holds value, but it’s always best to balance tradition with science when making health decisions.

Amaranth gets its name from a Greek word meaning "unfading." This plant has bright red flowers that stay colorful all summer, making it look beautiful. But the best part of amaranth isn't its flowers – it's the tiny seeds. Once harvested, these seeds are used much like other grains such as rice and oats.

Amaranth originally comes from Mexico and C.entral America. It was a main food for the Aztecs, and it's still eaten there today. In the U.S., amaranth has become very popular as more people learn about how good it is for you. It's easy to see why, with its nutty, slightly sweet taste and how easily it can be used in many recipes.

Amaranth's Health Benefits

The nutrients packed into amaranth can offer significant health advantages when included in a balanced diet. It's a good source of Vitamin C, which is vital for healing, helping your body process iron, form blood vessels, repair muscle tissue, and maintain collagen.

Naturally Gluten-Free

Amaranth is an excellent choice for people with Celiac disease, a condition where eating wheat gluten can harm the small intestine.

High in Protein

Amaranth is one of the best plant-based sources of protein available. Its protein is easily absorbed by the body and contains all the essential amino acids, including lysine, which is often missing in other grains. Studies show that amaranth proteins are very similar to animal proteins.

Rich in Antioxidants

Amaranth is full of antioxidants like gallic acid and vanillic acid. These help fight free radicals, which are harmful byproducts of normal cell activity. Antioxidants can help reduce everything from signs of aging to the risk of heart disease.

Eases Inflammation

Some allergic reactions cause uncomfortable swelling due to a substance called immunoglobulin E. Early studies suggest that amaranth might help slow down the body's production of this substance.

Lowers Cholesterol

Two animal studies have shown that amaranth and its oil can significantly lower "bad" LDL cholesterol without affecting "good" HDL cholesterol. More research is needed to see how amaranth affects cholesterol in humans.

Amaranth for Your Skin

Amaranth oil is becoming more common in beauty and skin care products. This oil, made from processing the seeds, has several things that can soothe and protect your skin. These include:

Squalene

Amaranth seeds are especially rich in squalene. Your body naturally makes squalene, and it's also found in plants and animals. As you get older, your body makes less of it, which can lead to dry skin and signs of aging. When squalene comes from plants, it's processed to be more stable, turning into squalane. Squalane can moisturize your skin without blocking pores and has properties that might help with acne and eczema.

Amaranth for Hair

The squalane in amaranth oil also benefits your hair. It can moisturize your hair, making it smoother and adding a glossy shine. You can try massaging a few drops into your scalp, then rinsing it out.

The tocopherols in amaranth oil are also good for your hair, as they protect it from the damaging effects of sunlight. Additionally, amaranth oil strengthens your hair and can help reduce greasiness.

Hair is an important part of beauty and self-care for people. While people who sport short hairstyles may not spend a lot on their haircare routine, people who have long hair go through many products and treatments for their hair. However, these products and treatments do not have to be expensive or exclusive. Many ayurvedic treatments happen to be with inexpensive products, many of which you can find easily available around you.

Our elders have always cherished health and lustrous hair. These were backed by the tradition of pampering their children with warm, herbal head massages. These soothing rituals are often followed by a cleanse with frothy reetha (soapnuts) and a final rinse with fragrant water. This cherished care and attention is widely believed to contribute to the development of thick, lustrous, and healthy hair.

Ayurvedic Remedies For Healthy Hair?

These age-old practices can be traced back to Hindu myths and religious texts, known as the Vedas. In these ancient scriptures, angry deities were often depicted with unruly hair, while patient and serene ones boasted thick, curly locks or smooth, elegant braids.

These myths, along with the Ayurvedic practices they inspire, form the foundation of traditional hair care in India. You can easily apply these same time-tested remedies at home to encourage robust hair growth and achieve shiny, bouncy tresses.

Tailoring Hair Care to Your Ayurvedic Hair Type

Ayurveda emphasizes working with your individual hair type, which is determined by your dominant dosha:

Vata Hair Qualities

Individuals with a dominant vata dosha have a higher proportion of air and ether elements. If balanced, they typically have naturally wavy hair and a somewhat dry scalp. Vata hair is often porous, meaning it readily absorbs products and dyes. However, this also makes it prone to absorbing dust, smoke, and environmental toxins, increasing its susceptibility to breakage and damage. An overall vata imbalance can lead to an oily scalp with itchy dandruff, hair fall, or sluggish hair growth.

Pitta Hair Qualities

Pitta types possess a greater proportion of fire and water, or fire and air. A balanced pitta dosha usually results in naturally straight, silky hair. Their hair tends to be moderately resistant to dyes and colors due to its typically dense hair follicles. This density also makes it more resistant to both topically applied nutrients and air pollution. An imbalanced pitta dosha can cause either dryness or oiliness on the scalp, depending on the specific proportions of air and water elements. Imbalanced pitta may also contribute to hair fall and slow hair growth.

Kapha Hair Qualities

Kapha types have a higher proportion of earth and water elements. A person with a balanced kapha dosha will likely have naturally curly hair with a coarse texture and an oily scalp. The hair follicle in kapha types is often very dense, making it less receptive to nutrients or dyes. When this dosha becomes unbalanced, hair may become fine and brittle, breaking easily. Interestingly, kapha types are generally the least likely to experience significant hair loss, though their hair growth might be slower.

Unlike modern medicine or other medicinal products, ayurvedic herbs and fruits are found all around us. Drawing from our nature and surroundings, Ayurveda provides us with ingredients as well as remedies, from readily available products. One such ingredient is the Indian gooseberry.

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is a very popular ayurvedic fruit in southeast Asia. This tree is famous for its small, green fruits, which have a unique taste that is often described as sour, bitter, and sharp. The great thing about Amla is that it is available in many different forms. Whether it is candied, pickled, or raw so that you can make different dishes or add them to your food. You may also find amla available in powered form or as juice in certain products. However, if you are buying packaged amla, it is best to look at the ingredients that are taken to make it.

Ayurvedic Benefits of Amla Juice

Amla juice is not just tasty and easy to use; it's also very healthy and offers many benefits.

Boosts Your Immune System

Amla juice is packed with vitamin C, a strong helper for your body's defenses. This vitamin protects cells from damage and helps your immune system work better. Getting enough vitamin C may help prevent infections and even shorten colds. While animal studies show protection against cell damage, more human research is needed to fully understand amla juice's effect on immunity.

Supports Liver Health

Promising animal studies suggest amla juice can improve liver function. For instance, it helped prevent fatty liver disease in rats on high-sugar or high-fat diets. Amla juice is rich in antioxidants and has strong anti-inflammatory qualities, both beneficial for liver health. However, more human research is needed to confirm these liver benefits.

Aids Digestion

Amla juice may help your digestion. A study on people with acid reflux found amla extract significantly reduced heartburn. Older animal studies suggest amla fruit can help with diarrhea, stomach cramps, and may even heal stomach ulcers due to its antioxidants. Further studies are needed to see how drinking amla juice specifically affects human digestion.

Promotes Heart Health

Studies suggest amla extract can improve heart health by reducing bad cholesterol, triglycerides, and inflammation. It also helps lower blood pressure, a key risk factor for heart disease. These studies used concentrated extract, so more research is needed to confirm if drinking amla juice offers the same heart benefits, especially for cholesterol management and blood pressure.

May Encourage Hair Growth

Amla is often used to boost hair growth and prevent hair loss. Studies show applying amla-based serums can improve hair growth. Amla may block an enzyme linked to hair loss and stimulate hair follicle cells. While amla juice contains helpful nutrients like antioxidants and vitamin C, more research is needed to understand if drinking it directly affects hair health.

Boosts Kidney Health

Amla juice appears to support kidney health, likely due to its antioxidants. Animal studies show amla extract protects against kidney damage and helps maintain kidney function, even in cases of age-related issues or toxin exposure. It also helps increase beneficial antioxidant levels in the kidneys. More research is necessary to see how normal amounts of amla juice affect human kidney function.