Balneotherapy is an ancient practice that uses hot, mineral-rich springs – such as those found in the Kangal Hot Springs in Turkey or in Manghopir , near Karachi – to treat a host of ailments. This has recently gained traction in Pakistan, and a substantial numbers of spas across the country are nae equipped with mineral rich thermal pools in order to accommodate an increasing number of people who want to take advantage the benefits of balneotherapy.
Balneotherapy can be used to treat the following ailments:
1. Cardiovascular diseases. People suffering from heart problems undergo balneotherapy (as a supplement to the prescription medication they are required to take) because the heat dilutes blood clots- the most common causes of angina and heart attacks – and helps ease hypertension. Moreover, alkaline spring water flushed out excess uric acid and toxins, which, if allowed to accumulate in the body unchecked, can lead to chest pain and elevated blood pressure.
2. Mental illnesses. An increasing number of psychologists are recommending regular balneotherapy sessions for patients suffering from chronic anxiety and depression. This is because when the mineral-rich spring water is absorbed of endorphins – the ‘happy hormone’ – creating a sense of physical and mental well-being. Relaxed muscles and nerves , in turn, lead to improved sleep cycles, welcome news for insomniacs.
3. Musculoskeletal disorders. Patients with skeletal diseases – such as arthritis and fibromyalgia – find magnesium-rich mineral baths very soothing. This became the hot water softens their hardened tissues, reduces inflammation and muscle soreness and increases the circulation of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body (the heat dilates the blood vessels). This allows more blood to flow throughout the body, and results in improved nourishment of muscles and connective tissue which alleviate pain.
4. Skin problems. Spring water rich in sulphur – often called nature’s beauty mineral – is recommended to ease the symptoms of chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. The springs in Manghopir are fabled to cure leprosy.
By Sadia Kamran