Therapeutic bathing, otherwise known as balneology, has been used by humankind for thousands of years. Specifically, peat baths have been used around the world to treat rheumatic and gynecological diseases as well as osteoarthritis, sciatica, skin disease, trauma, etc. Peat was even used directly on wounds in World War I to prevent infection.

Peat has a complex composition including fulvic and humic acid. Research has found these humic substances are antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, adsorptive, and can act as chelators for heavy metals. Additionally, peat also has a unique ability to help maintain a bath temperature.

Why Peat?

Peat can help with psoriasis, dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin diseases. One study used daily peat applications and observed patients with chronic hand dermatitis and psoriasis palmaris. Patients reported rapid itch relief, less inflammation, and pustule formation was stopped sooner than usual when compared to non-treatment. Hyperthermic baths using peat supports a healthy immune system response to a wide variety of diseases.

There are several different kinds of peat with different qualities depending on where it is sourced from. Last but not least, there are also several ways to use peat including a peat pack or compress or as a partial/full bath. It’s important to speak with your holistic doctor to find out which type of peat may be right for you. As always, before starting any new therapy, you should have a conversation with your doctor. Dr. Blandford offers a 15 minute Discovery Visit if you'd like to see if she'd be a good fit for you and your health goals.

Please note: Due to peat’s detox effects, there has been a reported case where peat baths negatively affected someone on mood-balancing medications. Exercise caution if you are taking any medications.

Resources:

1. Guzik, Ivona. 2014. "Medicinal Peat Baths May Accelerate the Detoxification of Psychotropic Drugs: A Case Report." Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine; 29(1).
2. Pizzorno, Joseph, and Murray, Michael. 2013. Textbook of Natural Medicine. 4th Ed. Chapter 45: 385-394.
3. Wollina, Uwe. 2009. "Peat: A Natural Source for Dermatocosmetics and Dermatotherapeutics." Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery; 2(1): 17-20. doi:10.4103/0974-2077.53094

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