Ayurveda has long recommended storing plain drinking water in copper vessels (“tamra jal”) as a simple daily ritual. Modern research has also explored copper’s antimicrobial action. In one lab study, contaminated water stored in copper pots for 16 hours showed no recoverable diarrhoea-causing bacteria, and the copper that leached into the water stayed within WHO permissible limits.
Copper is essential, but “more” is not automatically “better.” Your body needs copper for essential functions, including energy production and support for the immune and nervous systems. At the same time, excessive copper exposure can irritate the gut and, over time, may contribute to more serious issues.
The daily amount matters—especially if you are using a handmade copper water bottle or a copper water dispenser as part of your routine.
The Recommended Amount
There is no single “medical dosage” for copper-infused water because copper intake also comes from food. What you want is a moderate habit that fits your body and your day. Consistency beats intensity.
- Standard guideline
A copper water bottle, dispenser, or pitcher has much less copper content than the FDA-approved daily requirement. Hence, you can drink as much as you want. However, if you are new to copper water, start at the lower end and observe how you feel. (Remember: Your regular diet already provides copper; most adults meet needs through food.)
Here, “copper water” means plain water that has been stored in a copper vessel for a set contact time (typically overnight for 4-5 hours atleast). Once you finish this, you can use the copper bottle just like any other bottle for the rest of the day with regular water.
According to the FDA, the daily upper limit is 10mg of copper for adults. The Kaarigar 950ml copper vessel consists of only 0.9ml when left untouched. This is well below the unsafe levels. You can refill and use the copper vessel like a regular water bottle, and using it on the go doesn't infuse any copper ions in the water.
- Best consumed in the morning on an empty stomach
Many Ayurveda-aligned routines place copper water in the morning—simple, calm, and easy to remember. We also describe this “first thing in the morning” practice as part of traditional use.
Explore how a copper water bottle turns your first sip into a daily reset
How to Prepare Copper Water
Preparation is not complicated, but timing matters. Copper needs contact time with water. You also want the water to stay plain and neutral (no citrus, no additives).
- Fill the copper vessel with water before bed
Fill your vessel at night with regular drinking water. A clean vessel matters more than any “perfect” water source.
- Let it sit overnight (4-5 hours overnight recommended)
Let the water rest overnight (4-5 hours minimum). This aligns with common traditional practice and published research that used overnight-style storage windows. Kaarigar also commonly references overnight rest windows for copper-water use. The water should be untouched.
- Water is ready to drink in the morning
In the morning, pour your first glass and drink it slowly. Then switch back to your normal water for the rest of the day. Refill the copper water bottle and use it just like any regular water bottle throughout the day.
Important Guidelines
Copper water works best as a small habit, not a full-day replacement for normal hydration. The goal is measured exposure, not constant exposure. Keep the rules simple so you can follow them.
Do’s
Think of the “Do’s” as guardrails. They keep the practice safe and sustainable. They also protect your vessel so it lasts for years.
- Start with 1 glass and gradually increase
Start with one glass a day for a few days. If you feel fine, move up to as much as you want. If you feel off, step back.
- Use pure copper vessels (not coated)
Choose vessels made from food-grade, certified copper, with the inside left natural (uncoated) so it can contact the water. Our copper vessels are hammered from a single sheet of 99.9% pure certified copper, lacquered on the outside while the inside remains natural.
- Clean the copper vessel regularly with lemon and salt
Clean regularly to remove oxidation/patina buildup. Kaarigar recommends periodic cleaning methods like vinegar and salt, and also advises avoiding harsh chemicals.
Understanding themorning copper water ritual
Don’ts
Most copper-water problems come from using copper vessels with the wrong liquid. Keep your use specific: plain water, stored overnight and drinking in the morning or evening. Once the copper water is over, you can use the copper bottle just like any other drinking vessel. But if you want flavored water, use a different container.
- Don’t store acidic drinks (lemon water, juice) in copper
- Do not store lemon water, juice, vinegar drinks, or any acidic beverage in copper.
- Don’t drink from damaged or corroded copper vessels
Warning Signs of Excess Copper
Your body usually gives early signals when something does not suit you. Copper excess tends to show up first in the stomach. Do not push through symptoms.
Please note that a copper bottle, pitcher, dispenser, or carafe consists of far less copper content than the FDA-approved amount.
- Nausea - Nausea can be an early sign of excessive copper exposure.
- Stomach cramps - Abdominal pain or cramps are also commonly noted with high copper intake.
- Metallic taste - A metallic or bitter taste can occur when copper levels in water rise (often described in morning “first draw” scenarios or taste-threshold guidance).
- Consult a doctor if these occur - Stop the copper-water routine and consult a clinician if symptoms repeat, worsen, or show up quickly after drinking.
Who Should Avoid or Consult a Doctor
Copper water is not a fit for everyone. Some conditions change how your body handles copper. When in doubt, get medical guidance before starting.
- People with Wilson's disease
- Those with kidney or liver problems
- Pregnant or nursing women (consult a doctor first)
Copper is a real nutrient, and copper vessels have a long cultural history. Used responsibly, copper water can be a simple wellness ritual—not a risky experiment. If you are new, start with one glass and scale up only if you feel good.
Quality is not a cosmetic detail. Construction, purity, and coatings influence how the vessel behaves. Kaarigar highlights artisan-made construction, pure copper, and clear usage guidelines.
If you want a daily vessel that is made for plain-water use and regular cleaning, choose a piece built for real life—home, office, and travel. Explore our products for a handmade copper water bottle and a copper water dispenser, including care guidance and recommended use windows.
Fill your copper vessel, leave it overnight for 4 to 5 hours. Wake up and drink it first thing on an empty stomach! Refill your vessel and go on to attack the day every day!