The Therapeutic Bath: a doctor’s perspective

Bath science

“Water is one part oxygen and two parts hydrogen, the rest is magic”
​–C.S. Lewis

Ah yes, the bath. The act of setting the stage for a nice long evening soak. Filling the tub with water at just the right temperature. Retreating to the sanctuary of your bathroom where no one will disturb you for at least 20 minutes. Perhaps lighting a candle, dimming the lights and getting in the tub.

The simple act of soaking in warm water has been studied by hydrotherapy physicians throughout the ages. In fact, Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, stressed the value of using various types of baths with different temperatures as a therapeutic tool to treat illnesses. ​

the power of skin

If you think about it, the skin is considered the largest organ in the body. It covers 22 square feet in area and has the ability to absorb nutrients from its environment. Certain substances can directly enter systemic circulation through the skin. These include oxygen, carbon dioxide, vitamins, plant resins, and salts.

Quantity Maters 

There are many bath products out on the market today and I have practically tried them all. In my opinion, the quantity of the bath additive is simply too small to have any physiologic effect on the body. Adding a capful of salt or a fizzing bath bomb into the bathwater may contribute to the entertainment experience but serves very little to the physiologic environment created in the water. The body is a complex system of chemical structures and a true therapeutic bath must address this issue. Don’t be afraid to add a cup or two of natural bath additive to your water. Salt, milk, or baking soda are great choices. Essential oils must be used sparingly.

Health Benafits of baths

On the other hand, the psychological effects of the bath can be quite significant. These include a study on the mental changes caused by salt bath therapy. It showed positive psychological effects such as peace of mind. There was also noted improvement in the quality of sleep.

I have benefited greatly from my fair share of evening soaks and have restored my own sense of balance and inner peace through bath therapy. My hope is that others can benefit from these simple techniques and find relief from physical pain or mental stress with the healing power of the therapeutic bath.

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