News India Live, Digital Desk: For centuries, an earthen pot or ‘desi fridge’ has been the first choice of Indians to get relief from the scorching heat and heat waves. The water from the fridge may make your throat wet, but there is no comparison to the peace and health benefits of water from an earthen pot. However, when we go to the market to buy pots, we see two types of earthen pots, red and black. Often people are confused as to which color is better for keeping water cool for a long time and for health. Let us know what experts say and what is the science behind it.

Red pitcher: natural and traditional option

Red colored pitchers are most popular. These are made from ordinary clay and cooked naturally. Red soil has high iron oxide content, which helps in filtering water naturally. According to Vastu and Ayurveda, red pitcher brings positivity in the house and drinking its water keeps the pH level of the body balanced. If the pitcher is well constructed and has the right amount of microscopic pores, it cools the water very gently.

Black pitcher: Why is it considered more effective?

The technique of making black colored pitchers is slightly different. These are smoked while cooking or a special kind of black clay is used. If seen from a scientific point of view, the process of evaporation in a black pitcher may be a little faster than in a red pitcher, due to which the water cools down faster and more. For those who like to drink very cold water, black pitcher can prove to be a better option.

The real secret of coolness: Not color, but texture is important

According to experts, how cold the water will be depends not only on its colour, but also on the ‘porosity’ of the pitcher i.e. the fine holes present in it. When water leaks out through these holes and comes in contact with the outside air and forms steam, the temperature inside the pitcher drops. While buying a pot, try knocking it lightly; If a metallic tinkling sound is heard, then understand that the pot is properly cooked and will cool the water properly.

Which is the boon for health?

Whether soil is red or black, both are alkaline in nature. Our body is acidic, hence pitcher water improves digestion by neutralizing the acid of the body. Like refrigerator water, it does not harm the throat and boosts metabolism. Water from an earthen pitcher is considered a panacea to avoid heatstroke in summer. Just keep in mind that the pitcher should be changed every 3-4 months because its microscopic holes get clogged with time.

Tips to keep the water in the pitcher very cold

Always keep the pitcher in a ventilated place.

Keep the pitcher wet by spreading a layer of sand at the bottom, this will keep the water as cold as ice.

Wrapping a wet cotton cloth around the pitcher also speeds up the process of evaporation and maintains the coolness of the water.