Uses, Types And Benefits Of Thalassotherapy

Thalassotherapy consists of the therapeutic use of seawater and other elements in the marine environment, such as algae, sand, mud or the sea breeze itself.

The word comes from the combination of the Greek word thalassa, which means ‘sea’, and therapia, which refers to ‘cure’.

Today we will tell you about the use, types and benefits of thalassotherapy.

The origins of thalassotherapy

The origins of this therapy date back to ancient Greece, in the writings of Hippocrates, who recommended the use of seawater to relieve certain ailments. Later, in the Roman Empire, soldiers used hot seawater baths to recover from fighting.

This therapeutic technique spread throughout Europe, especially in Italy, England and France. However, at the beginning of the 20th century, its usefulness was studied and the first official thalassotherapy center was established: the Rochroum Marine Institute , located in France.

The use of thalassotherapy

The principle behind thalassotherapy is that repeated immersion in warm seawater and application of sea sludge and algae can contribute to the body’s natural chemical balance. This may be because the skin can absorb the minerals it needs (magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium and iodine).

This treatment also assumes that the seawater contains substances similar to blood plasma. In fact, marine fluids contain a large amount of sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, potassium and other elements. So this similarity can favor the absorption of substances through the body, as a way to maintain homeostasis.

To guarantee the success of this technique, the site must have the necessary hygienic measures and specialized personnel. For this, the collection must take place far from the coast. Then it has to go through a cleansing and sterilization process.

Indications for thalassotherapy

Experts recommend thalassotherapy to treat several conditions, including body aches, skin conditions such as psoriasis, rheumatism, osteoporosis, tendinitis and lumbago.

It can also be helpful in cases of circulatory problems, such as hematoma, varicose veins and recurrent nosebleeds. It can also provide benefits for those with emotional states that have to do with stress and depression.

On the other hand , this therapeutic technique is not recommended in cases of cancer, severe hypertension, fever and psychosis.

Types of thalassotherapy

Thalassotherapy includes a series of therapeutic techniques that utilize the properties of marine elements to improve health and physical appearance. There are several methods of application and we will tell you about them below.

Seawater hydrotherapy

This includes bath in bathtub, either cold or hot (37 degrees), hydromassage, effusion spray and underwater showers. These techniques aim to relax the body, stimulate circulation, relieve respiratory problems and improve muscle tone.

Algotherapy

This consists of the use of fresh or dried seaweed. It is usually added in warm seawater baths or applied as thin wraps to the skin.

Seaweed is rich in minerals, proteins and minerals. It has a revitalizing, antioxidant and disinfectant effect. It also helps to tone muscles, reduce edema and help treat skin problems.

Marine climate therapy

Marine climate therapy utilizes the properties of the marine environment, which is rich in iodine, ozone and minerals. This can help the airways and skin. Sea air also has relaxing effects to calm and improve mood disorders.

Hydrocysnotherapy

Hydrocyne therapy consists of performing therapeutic exercises in seawater, especially in a pool designed for this purpose. It usually focuses on the treatment of physical ailments.

Psammotherapy

This consists of covering the body with warm sand. The purpose is to relieve joint or muscle conditions and provide warmth to the affected area of ​​the body. The trace elements and sea salts in the sand also have benefits for muscular and skeletal structure.

Peloidotherapy

This involves the use of peloids, such as marine mud, algae, clay and limestone. These elements are rich in minerals, vitamins and proteins.

This treatment is usually used for conditions of the musculoskeletal system (arthritis, osteoarthritis) or skin (acne, psoriasis, dermatitis).

The main benefits of thalassotherapy

So far, we have delved into the properties and forms of thalassotherapy. But what does the scientific evidence say about the benefits? Let us see.

Thalassotherapy relieves muscle fatigue, stiffness and pain

There is evidence to suggest that thalassotherapy has a positive effect on fatigue and recovery from muscle damage. This helps to improve the health and quality of life of those who suffer from these conditions.

In turn, research has shown that aerobic exercises in seawater provide more benefits than other modalities. They cause an improvement in the patient’s emotional state.

It promotes circulation

Seawater therapy improves blood circulation, which in turn helps relieve muscle spasms and fill the body with oxygen and nutrients.

At the same time, a study showed that algae used in thalassotherapy improves circulation when used in cosmetics.

Thalassotherapy relieves joint pain

Another benefit is relief of joint pain and increased movement in the joints. In fact, there is evidence that water therapy, including thalassotherapy, improves joint function between bones. It also increases relaxation and promotes a positive mood.

It improves skin conditions

Thalassotherapy also helps in the relief of several skin conditions. In fact, the minerals and trace elements present in the marine environment provide the necessary substances to relieve skin irritation (in cases of psoriasis and dermatitis) or to increase wound healing.

Thalassotherapy stimulates emotional processes

There is evidence that thalassotherapy, in conjunction with sleep therapy techniques, reduces daytime sleepiness, improves mood and cognitive function, reduces the level of anger, stress and depression. At night, it increases sleep quality and relieves anxiety.

Consult a professional before performing thalassotherapy

If you are suffering from a condition and want to try the benefits of thalassotherapy yourself, it is best to first consult a healthcare professional. They know how to give you the right directions and indications according to your case.

Remember that there are contraindications. Also, make sure you go to specialized centers that guarantee hygiene and procedures.

But if you do not suffer from a serious condition and want to take advantage of the marine environment, all you need to do is take a trip to the beach, breathe in the air and relax. In these cases, do not forget to use good sunscreen!