Mud therapy / Pelotherapy

Mud is an important element of nature. It contains important minerals which have positive effects on human health. Mud can absorb toxins from human body therefore is very useful in preventing many diseases. It is also known for its healing properties. It also helps in cooling and relaxing body as it can hold moisture for a long time.

Benefits of Mud therapy

It relaxes muscles and improves blood circulationIt maintains metabolism rendering positive impact on digestionIt is useful in conditions of inflammation/ swelling and relieves painIt is a good hair conditioner and is good for skinIt is useful in condition of stiff joints

Why use mud therapy?

Out of the five constituent elements of this universe mud (earth) has a pivotal role to play in our well being. The dark color of mud helps in absorbing different colors and conveying them to the the body, giving it therapeutic properties. Also, its shape and consistency may be modified with ease, just by changing the water content, which makes it easy to use. A mud pack is advantageous over a cold compress (cold water therapy) as it retains the coolness over a longer period of time. Therefore, it is recommended whenever a prolonged cold application is required. Lastly, it is easily available and a cost effective treatment option.

Types of Mud

Mud found in different parts of the world has different properties. Mud composition varies with the place of origin. Firstly, mineral constituents of mud varies with the kind of rocks found in the region and the process of soil formation. Secondly, mud property is influenced by kind of flora and fauna of the region. Therefore, it is essential to learn about properties of mud before utilizing it benefits. It is important to note that before using any type of mud it should be dried, powdered and sieved to remove any type of impurities such as stones, grass, etc.

If you don't want to extensively use wet mud over your body, you can also limit it as a face pack and reap its benefits for your facial skin. Also, if you are going for a session of mud bath, ensure that you have not eaten anything before doing so. The best time of the day for the treatment is early morning. There are different types of mud that can be used for therapy. Each type of soil has distinct benefits in curing diverse health problems. The type of mud used in the therapy are:

Brine mud: Popularly obtained from the Dead Sea, the Great Salt Lake and other saltwater bodies.

Moor mud: Organic mud, peat moss from naturally decomposed plant residue. Contains no clay and is a natural chelator.

Fango mud: Soil from thermal hot springs.However, this therapy is most beneficial if virgin clay or mud is used for treatment as its minerals are not lost in previous applications. Also, to reap maximum benefits, the application and removal of mud should be accompanied with intense massages.

What are the Benefits of Mud Therapy?

The overall effect of mud bath on the skin and body are:

Removes dead skin cells and reveals a softer and glowing skin.
Helps in the reduction of spots and patches on skin.
Removes toxins from the body and helps in detoxification.
Opens clogged skin pores.
Improves blood circulation.
Tones skin and keeps it hydrated.
Restores the skin pH balance.
Stimulates collagen production in the skin.
Minimizes the appearance of open pores, wrinkles and age spots.100% natural, safe and economic.
Soothing effect on eye muscles.
Strengthens the immune system.
Enhances the body's ability to perspire and expel toxins.

The world's 13 best mud baths:
Boryeong, Korea
Napa Valley, California
Hell's Gate Geothermal Park and Mud Bath Spa, New Zealand
Volcán El Totumo, Colombia
Dead Sea
Hveragerði, Iceland
Eulo, Australia
Santorini, Greece
Milky Way Lagoon, Palau
Sultaniye Hot Springs, Turkey
Lake Techirghiol, Romania
Terme di Vulcano, Vulcano Island, Sicily

What are your thoughts? Are you inclined to have a pelotherapy?

Love and light,

Sophie & Ellie xx

Sources:
naturopathycure
holisticzine
amexeessentials