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Cleansing Baths
There is a long history of cleansing/detoxification baths used by
naturopaths and by spas in Germany. Hot baths (98-105°F) sedate and
relax the body, relieve minor aches and pains, and assist in the
elimination of toxins. Moist heat causes profuse sweating with loss of
water, salt and small amounts of urea, uric acid, cretinine, phosphates,
sulfates and lactic acid. Body temperature rises, blood pressure drops,
metabolism accelerates, skin becomes flushed, blood is drawn to the
extremities, white blood cells increase and blood becomes more
alkaline. Hyperthermia, overheating the body, stimulates the immune
system, and in reasonable amounts is safe for most adults. Where there is
an existing medical condition, it is always prudent to seek the advice of
a primary health care provider as to the suitability of hot baths. General
contraindications include high or low blood pressure, cardiac problems,
vascular conditions (including varicose veins, phlebitis, diabetes),
pregnancy, systemic or chornic diseases, seizures, hypo- or
hyperthyroidism, significant obesity, infections or inflammatory
conditions, and the influence of alcohol or drungs. It is advised to wait
15-20 minutes after strenuous exercise, and 30-60 minutes after a meal,
before taking a hot bath. Progressively work up from 5 minutes to 15 and
then up to 20-30 minute soaks. Those 65 and older should limit hot baths
to 5-10 minutes at a time
Drink cool (not cold) water both during and after a hot bath to prevent
dehydration, fatigue and muscle weakness. Grinking 8 ounces of purified
water per 20 pounde of body weight, per day, is recommended to promote the
optimal filtration of the blood by the kidneys and to keep the tissues
hydrated. Coffee and sodas have a dehydrating effect and are not a
substitute for water. Orange juice after a hot bath can help to replenigh
lost potassium. Flushing the system by srinking plenty of water after a
bath will help to eliminate toxins which would otherwise accumulate in
fat cells, muscles and joints
After a hot bath, to continue sweating and further assist the skin in
secreting heavy metals and other toxins, wrap the body (including the
head) in towels. Shower afterwards to remove toxins from the skin surface
which could otherwise be absorbed and retoxify the blood. A cold shower is
best if your constitution is up for it. Cold water closes the pores that
were opened during sweating. It acts as a tonic, and invigorates, enlivens
and awakens. Remain in the cool shower or bath for three minutes to
constrict blood vessels and stop sweating.
Common and most broadly beneficial baths:
Source: Barry Kapke, Border Exchange. Massage & Bodywork,
Aug/Sept 2000.
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