When it comes to hot springs and mud baths, move over Japan. Egypt is where it’s at: Scattered across Egypt are countless locations where natural healing traditions have long been practiced, drawing interest from visitors around the world seeking to treat moderate illnesses through natural, traditional methods. While some of these spots’ alleged healing characteristics have yet to see full scientific support, they still draw in hundreds of tourists every year — if not for the healing qualities, then for the scenic, relaxing experience and their charm. Today, we look at the various types of natural healing sites in Egypt and why they’re popular and it all starts with…

HOT SPRINGS-

Hot springs are abundant in Siwa: The mineral rich water contained in the some 200 springsin Siwa are thought to provide relief to people with gastrointestinal issues, gout, diabetes, rheumatism, high blood pressure and arthritis. The minerals present in the water, which can be absorbed through your skin, reduce inflammation, have pain-relieving properties, and promote relaxation that reduces stress and anxiety levels, and even induces better sleep. Most frequented among these bodies of water is Cleopatra’s pool, where the Ancient Egyptian queen was said to ritualistically soak in the warm bubbling waters of this hot spring.

FYI- Siwa is at the epicenter of natural healing sites in Egypt: Siwa is considered to be one ofthe most sought after locations for natural therapies in Egypt due to its high concentration of mineral-rich springs, sacred sand dunes and naturally occuring salt lakes. The remote oasis was notably a key destination for Ancient Egyptian royalty who often ventured out into the desert in search of spiritual guidance and medicinal care.

Check out some more hot springs over in Sinai: Supposedly visited by Moseson his way through Sinai, Hammam Mousa is one of the most popular hot springs on the peninsula. The spring can reportedly reach 200 degrees celsius and is popular for those seeking relief from rheumatism and musculoskeletal disorders.

You can find Hamam Pharaon closer to Cairo: Tucked away into the side of a small rock formation further north the Gulf of Suez is Hammam Pharaon. Part cave and part hot spring, the water contained at this site is claimed to reach temperatures as high as 92°Cand to be one of the most sulfurous hot springs in the world. Visitors typically bathe in Hamam Pharaon in search of relief from gastrointestinal issues and various illnesses targeting the skin, lungs and kidneys.

SOUND SMART- Sulfur hot springs are known to promote skin and respiratory health and provide pain relief, according to a research paper in the US National Library of Medicine.

The not so hot variety (with a pinch of salt): Siwa’s Al Tibtah lakes are another storiedattraction that have in recent years drawn more people in for a quick dip in its frigid, crystal clear waters. The extremely saline lakes are claimed to help treat a variety of skin problems and clear sinuses — though visitors are warned to limit their exposure to the water, as overexposure can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion.

SAND & MUD BATHS-

Bake in the sun: Today, near Dakrour Mountain in the dead of summer, visitors can bathe in thescorching hot sand as part of a supervised multi-day treatment for rheumatism, infertility, joint pain and impotence. Visitors are buried neck deep in the sand for hours and are offered warm herbal beverages while taking periodic breaks in the shade of a tent. You cycle through this process several times throughout the course of the treatment, which can leave the skin raw and extra sensitive by the time you’re through. Some doctors have even recommended the trip to patients for back pain relief, Reuters noted.

SOUND SMART- The idea behind the sand bath is that the weight and heat of the sand can help increase blood flow and oxygenation to the body. The heat is believed to help reduce inflammation and pain in the joints and muscles, and the weight can provide a gentle form of massage that promotes relaxation and pain relief.

Mud baths in Wadi Assal, near Ras Sudr, are also a major attraction. The nutrient-rich mud on the banks of a coastal hot spring in Wadi Assal allegedly contains anti-inflammatory properties that people have long covered themselves with to treat arthritis, joint pain and muscular fatigue. Visitors also typically bathe in the hotspring for about 20 - 30 minutes after they’ve fully covered themselves in mud.

Black sand therapy in Safaga: The Red Sea governorate might be more widely known for its endless stretch of luxurious resorts, but natural healing practices can also be found in close proximity. In Safaga, sand-burying is a major draw for visitors seeking relief from arthritis, psoriasis and skin inflammation.

AND WHEN ALL FAILS, LOOK TO THE SEA-

Start out with some thalassotherapy at a hotel spa: A fairly new concept that emerged only in the 19th century, thalassotherapy is a kind of spa experience that emphasizes the sea and marine-based products in bathing, exercising and masking. Some claim that thalassotherapy can treat skin and respiratory illness as well as reduce pain and generally improve physical functioning. This kind of treatment can be found at several hotel spas along the Red Sea coast.

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