To make the game-play more interesting, a thirst plugin was added.
Thirst is indicated on the on the boss bar at the top of your screen, but also on the xp bar, should by any chance the boss bar malfunction.
Because low thirst will give you effects, you should keep an eye on your thirst.
You can stack up to 16 bottles.
In cold areas, you can craft water bottles, should you be unable to find water.
If you drink water straight from the source, you have a chance to get cholera (look at diseases section for cure and info). That is why you should boil it in a furnace before drinking.
This is safe to drink.