Traditional utensil of India - Timeless wisdom of Bronze, Brass and Copper

Introduction

Indian food is rooted in tradition, sustainability and cultural heritage. In historical times, people used to eat with traditional utensils, as they had various health benefits. These traditional metal utensils not only improve our health, but also retain nutrients in the food. People are now opting for following age customs and eating with traditional kitchenware due to their abundant benefits. There are three primary metals which are used in making kitchen utensils – Brass, Bronze(Kansa) and Copper. Traditional kictchenware have played a significant role in the Indian kitchen for generations. They serve not only to cook food but also to store water and serve meals. They are not just aesthetically beautiful but also have numerous health benefits and practical uses.

Traditional practice endorses Copper (Tambra) for water, Bronze (Kansa) for food and Brass (Pital) for cooking. Water charged with copper will provide the body with a trace of copper required to meet the body's daily requirement. Eating in Kansa purifies food, enhances immunity and improves brain function. Its alkaline nature will reduce acidity by eating food and help digestion. Similarly, using a Brass coffee filter reduces not only acidity due to its alkaline nature but also enhances the flavour and aroma of coffee. In this day and age, people have grown an interest in sustainable, traditional, and Ayurvedic lifestyles, which promote holistic living. As people become more aware of Ayurvedic practices, they are embracing their cultural heritage and following ancient traditions.

Historical and cultural significance of traditional utensils

Traditionally, Copper, Brass and Bronze have been used in auspicious rituals and the kitchen for centuries. Metals were thoughtfully chosen for cooking as each of them has spiritual significance and health benefits. Sushruta and Charaka Samhita highlight the healing properties of these metals and their role in the well-being of people. When food is cooked in these vessels, it interacts with the energy of the metal and absorbs healing properties from it. Every Indian region has its unique relationship with these metals. In the south, Bronze is used to create urulis (vessels) for cooking and serving food. In Odisha and Gujarat, Kansa plates are considered heirlooms and handed down from generation to generation. Copper has been used in kitchen and temple rituals in various Indian cities.

Bronze (Kansa) - Health Benefits, Traditional uses and Care instructions

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Bronze (Kansa) is an alloy made from the combination of Copper (78%) and Tin (22%). Kansa is known for its strength and durability. Due to its ability to conduct heat, it has been used since the Bronze Age. It is used in India to make cookware and utensils. As per Ayurveda, Kansa is a sacred metal with various health benefits. Pure Kansa can be identified by its reddish-yellow hue. When struck, it produces a clear ringing sound, unlike the dull thud of a fake one.

Health benefits

• Ayurvedic properties – Bronze (Kansa) possess alkaline properties which can balance the pH level of the body, reducing acidity and helping digestion. 
• Anti-inflammatory – Today's food is made from additives and processed food, so it causes a lot of inflammation in the body. Bronze contains a trace of Copper and tin. When cooking, small amounts of copper and tin are transferred into the food, providing essential minerals needed for body functions. So, Kansa helps in balancing Vatta, pitta and Kapha dosha in the body, easing inflammation and promoting overall wellness.
• Detoxification – Kansa has a natural ability to detoxify your body. When food is prepared or served in Kansas, some copper and tin are transferred into the food, which neutralises bacteria and micro-organisms. 
• Nutrient retention – Kansa helps in retaining nutrients in food, so people absorb more nutrients by eating food prepared and served in Kansa products.

Kansa provides a holistic approach to health by creating a connection between our health and cookware. This chemical-free cooking method tackles various health issues in our bodies and encourages a healthy lifestyle.

Traditional uses

• Cookware and Serveware – Kansa has helped make cookware and serveware. In cookware, Kansa is used to make Kadai, Tawa, a cooking vessel and a saucepan. Serveware includes a Thali set, bowls, a serving bowl, glasses, a serving spoon, and a dining set. 
• Decorative items – Kansa has also helped make decorative items such as vase, candle holder, trinket boxes. 
• Jewellery – Kansa is used to make jewellery such as bracelets (Kada), anklets and other ornaments. 
• Religious artefacts – Kansa is used to make religious artefacts such as lamps and incense holders. 
• Ayurvedic treatments – Kansa has been used for ayurvedic treatments like massage. Special wands are used to stimulate energy points.

Care instructions

• Acidic food or liquid shouldn’t be kept in Kansa for long. 
• Kansa product should be cleaned with tamarind to maintain the finish 
• One shouldn’t use harsh chemicals to clean Kansa products as it may react with metal, which may harm the product.

Natriel Bronze (Kansa) product range

Natriel has curated an exclusive range of authentic, artisanal, traditional kitchen utensils made from Bronze (Kansa). Natriel has exclusive kitchen serveware – Round Thali set, Belgian Thali set, Donga, Handi, full dinner sets. Natriel promotes sustainable and chemical-free products, perfect for health-conscious and eco-friendly individuals. Natriel's elegant Kansa range blends traditions with contemporary dining needs.

Copper (Tamba) - Health Benefits, Traditional uses and Care instructions

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Copper is a reddish-brown metal that is an excellent conductor of heat, facilitating quick heating. Copper has a rich history and dates back to the Neolithic period around 10,000 to 2000 BC. It is a staple in cookware, as it heats food evenly and has anti-microbial properties. Copper has been used in Kitchen since medieval times in Europe and valued for its durability.

Health benefits

• Ayurvedic benefits- As per Ayurveda, Copper helps balance the three doshas – Vatta, Kapha and Pitta. Drinking water from a Copper bottle and a Glass helps in governing elemental energies of the human body. Research also suggests that Copper kitchenware destroys fungi, viruses and bacteria due to its anti-microbial properties. 
• Boost immunity – Eating food in copper utensils helps boost immunity. Copper plays a role in white blood cell production, supporting the body's natural defence mechanisms that fight infections effectively. 
• Improve digestion – Copper stimulates digestive enzymes, which help the body's ability to break down food and absorb nutrients, preventing indigestion and acidity. 
• Helps in detoxification – Copper water helps in flushing out toxins from the body. People keep water overnight in copper kitchenware, which charges the water and promotes kidney and liver health as it assists the detox process of the body. 
• Promote healthy skin – Copper helps in the production of collagen and melanin in the body, which results in glowing skin. Copper has anti-oxidants which reduce blemishes, ageing signs and acne.

Traditional uses

• Copper Kalash is often used for auspicious rituals in temples and the home. 
• Copper bottles and glasses are very popular for drinking water.

Care instruction 

• It is better not to keep acidic or salty food in copper kitchenware as it is highly reactive. 
• Copper cookware should be lined with tin to ensure the food doesn’t become toxic. 
• Copper cookware should be cleaned with salt and lemon or vinegar to enhance its shine.

Natriel Copper (Tamba) products range

Natriel Copper collection is a blend of authentic craftsmanship and modern utility. It features hand-etched tableware on products – Copper water bottle, Glass, Water Dispenser, Thali set, serving bowl, Donga, Handi, etc. These products reflect age-old artisanal skills with elegant vines and Chinar motifs. It is designed for functional and heritage appeal that will elevate your kitchen as well as your dining table.

Brass (Pital)- Health Benefits, Traditional uses and Care instructions

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The use of Brass in making cooking utensils goes back to the Indus Valley civilisation. Brass artefacts have been found from around 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE, so it has always been part of everyday life. Brassware flourished under the Chola, Gupta and Mughal dynasties, where every era contributed to its elegant design, craftsmanship and cultural significance. Brass is made from the combination of copper and zinc. It is known for its golden sheen and durability. Brass is considered a status symbol of wealth in Rajasthan. Brass containers are adorned with Arabic calligraphy and floral motifs, which represent Mughal artistry. Brass cookware is known for retaining heat well, making it ideal for slow cooking and enhancing the flavour of dishes.

Health Benefits of Brass Utensils

• Anti-microbial properties – Brass product inhibits bacterial growth, which helps in better hygiene in the kitchen. Brass is mainly used in railings and door knobs to reduce the spread of infection. 
• Balance Doshas- Water stored in Brass container has health benefits as it helps in balance 3 doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha. It boosts immunity and improves digestion in the body. 
• Boost digestion and immunity – Copper & zinc were found in Brass, which support the immune system and help digestion. Brass stored water helps in cleansing the stomach and improving gut health. 
• Improve skin health and haemoglobin – Brass is an alloy of copper, so it helps in the production of RBC and melanin, which enhance haemoglobin levels and clear skin.

Traditional uses

• Water storage vessel and utensils – Brass is used to make plate, pots, tumblers and cooking vessels. 
• Religious items – Brass is associated with sacred objects and religious ritual since ancient India. Brass is used for making Pooja Thali, Diya, incense holder, Kalash, idols and bells. 
• Musical instruments – Brass is also used for making musical instruments in Western culture. It includes horns, bugles, trumpets and trombones. In Indian traditions, it is used to make instruments like Shehnai, temple bells, etc, for its durability and resonant sound quality. 
• Coins and tools – Brass was earlier used to make coins and was considered a cheaper option than gold and silver. It is also used to make locks, fittings and hinges. 
• Jewellery – Brass is a cheaper metal, so it was used to make affordable jewellery in tribal communities. It included nose ring, necklaces, anklets and bangles. It has also been used as inlay work in temple décor, idols/statues and figurines.

Care instruction

• Brass is used for storing water, which enhances water properties. 
• Brass reacts to acidic substances such as lemon juice, tomato, tamarind and vinegar. 
• Brass contains lead, so it should not be used for cooking unless it is lined with tin.

Natriel Brass (Pital) product range

Natriel Brass collection is a vibrant collection of traditional metal craft, which is rooted in Indian cultural heritage. Natriel has exclusive home décor items such as Kalpavriksha tree, Horse cart, Kamdhenu, Ashoka Pillar, Shankh and Tortoise set. It also has storage items such as Spice box, coffee filter and tumbler, jars and dinner set. These products are sourced from the Moradbad cluster, which offers antique brass products celebrated for their precision.

Comparison between traditional and modern utensils

Features	Traditional Utensils	Modern Utensils
Material	Natural metal such as Copper, Brass and Bronze	Synthetic – Non-stick, aluminium and plastic
Health impact	It helps in boosting immunity and improving digestion	It has the potential for toxin leaching
Longevity	It lasts for a long time and is passed down to future generations	It has a short lifespan
Sustainability	These products are recyclable and natural	They increase plastic waste
Cultural significance	They are deeply rooted in Indian traditions	They are relatively new and don’t have any significance in culture.

 

Reintroduction of Traditional kitchen utensils in your Kitchen

Traditional Kitchen utensils can add functionality and character to the kitchen as they keep our connection to the past. Adding traditional utensils to the modern kitchen would elevate the look of your kitchen with the addition of Brass, Bronze and copper utensils. Traditional kitchen utensils are gaining popularity due to their durability and health benefits.

Slowly, People can bring Copper water bottles and Kansa serving bowls into their homes, but gradually upgrade to traditional kitchen utensils such as tin-coated Brass products. People are now incorporating traditional kitchen utensils into their lifestyle by starting the day with drinking from a Copper Bottle (Tamra Jal), cooking in Brass, and eating from bronze (Kansa) Thalis. This traditional kitchenware brings authenticity to your home during festivals and rituals.

Conclusion

Traditional Kitchenware made from Bronze, Brass and Copper are more than tools for promoting health and culture. It is passed down through our generations as these metals offer a solution to lifestyle problems by boosting immunity, digestion and sustainability. These utensils will not only promote mindful living but also help in preserving our rich heritage.

Natriel embraces this timeless wisdom, blending tradition with wellness, where every meal becomes a life celebration. 

Explore a curated collection of Natriel of Bronze (Kansa), Copper and Brass, which is made with love and care.

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