Balneotherapy - What is it?
Balneotherapy is the treatment of health conditions by bathing in naturally occurring minerals. The treatment can be likened to taking a warm bath – however, with a specific and intentional addition of minerals, each with their own intended purpose. The minerals selected for a specific treatment will depend on the health condition which is being treated. This makes it a very personalised intervention.
The history
Balneotherapy is not a new concept. In fact, it has been around for literally thousands of years. Its use as a medical intervention can be dated back to the 9th century BCE, and perhaps was used even earlier in time. While the science is not thoroughly explored in Australia, Europeans and Japanese incorporate the technique as part of their standard medical care.
What does it treat?
Balneotherapy can be incorporated into the treatment regime of a large number of conditions.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Acute or chronic skin conditions
- Back and neck pain
- Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Varicose veins and circulatory disorders
- Women’s health and pelvic inflammatory disease
- Fibromyalgia
- Sleep disturbance
- Urological conditions including prostatitis
- Metabolic conditions, such as diabetes
- Assistance in weight management
How does it work?
Balneotherapy works via a number of mechanisms. The warm-water environment assists in improving cell oxygen levels and blood circulation, which in turn improves the flow of oxygen-rich blood to vital organs and tissues. This also aids in the anti-inflammatory response to many conditions. These processes culminate in the reduction of toxins, pain levels and inflammation, restoring optimal function.
Furthermore, minerals can assist in creating a soothing and calming environment, adding a layer of mental relaxation and stress reduction – which can be a common cause or by-product of many health issues.