Water has been a source of comfort and healing for thousands of years. If you peruse texts pertaining to Ancient civilizations such as the Celts, Greeks, or Romans, you will find many recorded examples of their people utilizing hot springs or other bodies of water to help with ailments. Today, we still find solace in the warmth of a bath when we need to relax sore muscles or give our minds a rest. What is Balneotherapy? Balneotherapy is a form of hydrotherapy that involves the use of bathing, often in waters that are rich in natural mineral content, to help treat health issues. Today, you can easily partake in this type of hydrotherapy by visiting a spa or hot springs resort. The Effect of Balneotherapy Balneotherapy uses the warmth of the water helps to stimulate blood circulation. The minerals found in naturally occurring springs often contain sulfur and magnesium. These minerals are used to stimulate your immune system so it can more effectively fight off illness. It is also thought to relax you, thereby releasing stress and bringing your blood pressure down. Treatable Conditions We often will naturally look to the water, especially warm water, in our regular daily life to help ease minor pain and escape the stresses of the day, sometimes even adding salts or using aromatherapy to amplify the results. Studies behind the effectiveness of balneotherapy are limited, but some research shows promise that it does have a positive effect on certain conditions, here are just a few. Insomnia- When a warm bath is used 20- 30 minutes before bed, the cooling of your core body temperature and its ability to relax you can allow for a more restful state. Arthritis- The European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine published a study that found evidence that mineral baths may help relieve arthritis by naturally reducing pain and inflammation, relaxes stiff joints, and helps prevent microbial infection. Psoriasis- Balneotherapy shows it may have a substantial effect as an anti-inflammatory. This can help with psoriasis or conditions such as fibromyalgia. More studies are needed but it can be used as a supplemental treatment. In addition, it is a more gentle alternative to many medications and typical treatments.