What Is the Scientific Evidence for Balneotherapy?

Balneotherapy

Balneotherapy is a natural approach to healing using water. Normally, individuals are immersed into water in tubs or natural bodies of water.

Balneotherapy is a form of physical therapy that has been used for centuries. Mineral-rich hot springs were used in the early days by the Greeks and Romans to treat a variety of ailments.

Different types of water are used to treat particular health conditions. Hot springs are often used to treat illnesses associated with decreased blood flow to the extremities. Mineral baths (mainly consisting of sulfur, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and iron) are especially beneficial when treating skin disorders and sea water can help relieve tense nerves.

Both hot and cold water is used. Generally, hot water is used to soothe and relax and cold water is used to stimulate. Hot water opens pores and helps increase surface circulation. Cold water closes pores and increases blood flow throughout the body. Some practitioners find it beneficial to alternate hot and cold water treatments.