The Health Benefits of Steam Bathing

Massage and saunas

The benefits of steam bathing have been known for thousands of years.  Hippocrates believed fever could cure almost any disease, and steam baths and saunas have been used for creating 'artificial' fevers since at least the time of Hippocrates.
 
While both saunas and steam baths are therapeutic, the high moisture content of the steam bath is especially useful for respiratory problems like bronchitis, asthma, and allergies.  It is also helpful for cleaning and toning the skin.  The large amount of perspiration created by both steam baths and saunas makes the skin soft and supple, and leaves the bathers feeling invigorated and refreshed.

Special Benefits of Steam Baths

We noted that the steam bath is useful for respiratory problems.  This is because steam can clear allergens and mucus from the lungs.  For generations, doctors have recommended breathing steam for all kinds of respiratory problems.  The steam bath provides a higher concentration of steam than a vaporizer, giving even greater benefits to those with breathing problems.

Steam soothes breathing passages by increasing the moisture content in the lungs, throat and nose.  Anyone suffering from the discomfort of asthma or the common cold can find relief by spending time in a steam bath.

It should be noted, however, that the sauna bath is not a cure for respiratory diseases.  It simply provides relief from the symptoms, but this is enough for most sufferers to return to the steam bath repeatedly.

Skin

Nothing is better for the skin than a heavy sweat.  Dermatologists recognize the value of steam in creating a beautiful, healthy glow.  Heavy sweating cleanses the skin more thoroughly than soap and water because it opens the pores and allows deep-seated grime and dead cells to be flushed out.  In addition, a steam bath improves blood circulation to the skin and this contributes to a healthy, glowing appearance.

Pain Relief

Heat is an effective treatment for muscular pain.  A steam bath after a physical workout is a good way to speed up the healing process of injured tissues and muscles.  Heat causes the blood vessels to expand which increases the circulation, allowing more oxygen to reach damaged parts of the body.  This has the double effect of reducing pain and increasing the healing rate.

Relaxation

Deep rest is one of the most therapeutic ways to heal the body.  Our modern life is filled with daily stress, which can build up and cause stress related illnesses like high blood pressure and hypertension.  A sauna bath is a great way to unwind and relieve the stress of the day.  The heat of the sauna causes the muscles to relax, and the steam provides a soothing atmosphere for calming the mind.

You will find that a steam bath before bed is a great way to promote deep restful sleep.  You emerge from the steam bath feeling relaxed and calm.  When taken as part of your daily routine, the steam bath has tremendous benefits for your health and your state of mind.