Healthy Metals for kitchen's Health

Ayurvedic medicines are known to endorse the usage of bhasmas or ashes of precious herbs, and metals and stones such as gold, silver, rubies and emeralds, for good health and well-being. But did you know that our ancient science also gives immense importance to the metals that our cooking utensils are made of? While modern living has made us turn towards the more convenient steel, glass and non-stick cookware, old-school utensils are noted to hold therapeutic benefits, whether you use them for cooking, or to eat your meals. In fact, while glass and steel are fairly neutral, coated or non-stick pans could even be detrimental to the health of your skin. Dr Perumbuduri Naresh, senior Ayurvedic physician at Ananda in the Himalayas, says that the chemicals that leach off these coated pans could cause conditions like chronic acne. While it would be rather inconvenient to completely replace your cookware (how on earth will you cook tomorrow's breakfast , you can still incorporate some pure metals (and clay) into your kitchen to boost health and longevity. Here's how to do it:

Health benefits of cooking in copper vessels

“This is the best metal for cooking rice.” You can also store water overnight in a copper utensil, and drink your first glass from this to enjoy the benefits of this wonderful metal. Science has now proved that copper-rich foods boost collagen. Therefore, this metal offers advantages for the skin too. If you are a kapha type (prone to weight gain, coughs and congestion), then this is the best for you. “Copper is related to sun and fire, therefore it helps increase agni in the body—so indirectly, it will also increase metabolic rate,” says Dr Naresh. It detoxifies the body, helps increase haemoglobin, improves the secretion of bile and the peristaltic movements of the gut to aid digestion as well.

Health benefits of eating in silverware

“Silver is cooling in nature as it is related to the moon, so it's the best for pitta personalities.” If you're a pitta type, you'll have red, reactive skin, and will be quick to anger. Eating out of real silverware will calm down your temperament and your complexion. “Even kajal must be stored in a silver container as eyes are predominantly pitta—it is because of the fire or Agni in the eye that we can see.” Silver is good for people who have dizziness and excessive thirst, it calms down inflammation and increases sperm count. Dr Naresh also suggests that it may be helpful for those who have epilepsy.

Health benefits of using brass utensils

Brass is still commonly used in small towns and villages in the country. “Water stored in a brass vessel increases strength and immunity.” In addition, it also helps pacify pitta (burning sensations, aggression), increases haemoglobin count, and improves the general condition of your skin. “What's more, it will not change the qualities of the material that is placed in the container.”

Health benefits of cooking and eating in bronze vessels

This ancient metal is rarely used these days; however, it offers immense benefits. Specifically, it pacifies vata (dry skin, nervous temperament, irritability) and pitta. It also helps reduce obesity, improve eyesight and skin condition. “It is the best to cook and eat in; however, you cannot use ghee in a bronze vessel.”

Health benefits of eating in goldware

Believe it or not, there was a time when people actually ate with gold spoons and plates. They, of course, used to be royalty. “Gold is an aphrodisiac and it improves sperm quality.” It is beneficial for the overall rejuvenation of the body, and is also known to enhance memory, making it helpful for those who suffer from Alzheimer's disease.

Health benefits of using clay utensils

“This is wonderful for everyone, whether you use it for cooking or eating.” You can even store and drink water out of a clay vessel to enjoy its perks. “Earth is related to kapha, which is responsible for immunity.” In a small study with a low sample size, Dr Naresh prescribed clay for those with rheumatoid arthritis. “When they cooked in earthen pots, they had great relief in their symptoms,” he says. “When we're near earth, we are also connected to five elements—this is why clay makes for a wonderful vessel.”