Sauna
Sauna is a type of hormetic thermotherapy. Exposure to high heat generates heat shock proteins, which induce mitochondrial biogenesis and have been linked to the regeneration of synapses.
Theory[edit | edit source]
It is not known through what mechanisms sauna may generate health benefits. It also induces the creation of endorphins, which may reduce pain, and improves circulation.
Evidence[edit | edit source]
Sauna was found to be beneficial for antihistamine-resistant urticaria, an autoimmune disease.[1]
A 2015 study found that frequent sauna usage lowered men's risk of fatal cardiovascular disease and premature death from other causes. The study's conclusion reports, "Increased frequency of sauna bathing is associated with a reduced risk of SCD, CHD, CVD, and all-cause mortality. Further studies are warranted to establish the potential mechanism that links sauna bathing and cardiovascular health."[2]
ME/CFS[edit | edit source]
A case study of two patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) found dramatic improvement in self-reported fatigue, pain, sleep disturbance, and low-grade fever after daily use for 35 days.[3]
Clinicians[edit | edit source]
Risks and safety[edit | edit source]
Costs and availability[edit | edit source]
See also[edit | edit source]
Learn more[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ Magen, Eli (March 2014), "Beneficial effect of sauna therapy on severe antihistamine-resistant chronic urticaria", The Israel Medical Association journal: IMAJ, 16 (3): 182–183, ISSN 1565-1088, PMID 24761711
- ↑ Laukkanen, Tanjaniina; Khan, Hassan; Zaccardi, Francesco; Laukkanen, Jari A. (April 2015). "Association between sauna bathing and fatal cardiovascular and all-cause mortality events". JAMA internal medicine. 175 (4): 542–548. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2014.8187. ISSN 2168-6114. PMID 25705824.
- ↑ Masuda, Akinori (April 2005). "The effects of repeated thermal therapy for two patients with chronic fatigue syndrome". Journal of psychosomatic research. 58: 383–387.
