Sitting in hot water and salt is a centuries-old home cure for a range of diseases, including infections. The concept is that the salt draws out the illness while the heat relieves pain and edema.
While there is some anecdotal evidence that this cure may be beneficial, scientific data to support its efficacy in treating infections is lacking. In fact, if the water is overly hot, it might aggravate the condition by causing more skin damage.
Women are now sitting on hot water combined with salt to expose the vagina to steam. They believe that this improves and cleans the vagina. Other herbs, such as mugwort, wormwood, chamomile, calendula, basil, and oregano, are sometimes added.
The procedure is quite simple and may be completed in 20 to 60 minutes at home or in a standard spa.
- Fill a basin with hot water and add roughly a cup of your choice of herbs.
- Allow the herbs to soak for at least a minute.
- Take off your clothes from your waist down.
- Have a seat or crouch straight over the basin. Some people prefer to sit on the toilet after placing the basin in it.
- Wrap a towel around your waist and legs to keep the steam in.
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The Benefit of Sitting on Hot Water and Salt
The stream naturally promotes blood flow to the vagina. This aids in wound healing. Among the claims made by promoters are:
- alleviating menstruation symptoms such as bloating, cramping, tiredness, and heavy bleeding
- increasing fertility
- facilitating postpartum healing
- stress reduction
- Hemorrhoids treatment
- enhancing energy and decreasing weariness
- headache relief
This claim is not supported by scientific evidence. Users have mixed feelings about the benefits. While some users report it relieved itch, soreness, and minor vaginal problems, others believe it caused issues. Burns, infections, and other serious consequences are common.
Natural vaginal cleansing occurs. Infections can be treated with clinically established medications. Steam can kill both beneficial and bad bacteria in the body, making the vaginal area susceptible to infection. The presence of salt increases the risk of infection in the vagina.