Key Research Findings

Thalassotherapy, the use of seawater and marine resources for therapeutic purposes, has been increasingly recognized as a potential treatment method for various health conditions. 14 studied the effects of hot seawater immersion on the cardiovascular system, finding that dipping into hot water with varying salt concentrations elicits different reactions compared to cold water immersion. Hot water immersion leads to a decrease in the tonicity of the parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in increased heart rate without causing vascular contraction. explored the integration of thalassotherapy (cold seaweed wraps) with standard drug therapy and elastic compression techniques for chronic venous insufficiency, demonstrating that the combination significantly enhanced conservative treatment outcomes. The biologically active components of brown algae were found to improve microcirculation, lymphatic drainage function, and peripheral hemodynamics, ultimately contributing to a reduction in hypoxia, improved tissue trophism, and better overall quality of life for patients. 3 investigated the health-promoting effects of thalassotherapy on surgical emergency team personnel. The study found that thalassotherapy had a positive impact on reducing asthenia symptoms, decreasing the occurrence of acute respiratory diseases, and reducing relapses of chronic ear, nose, and throat pathologies. These benefits were attributed to the normalization of cortisol, thyroid-stimulating hormone, immune status indicators, and optimization of lipid peroxidation processes. 5 conducted a scientometric analysis of studies on climatotherapy, highlighting the proven efficacy of aerotherapy, heliotherapy, and thalassotherapy for patients with various chronic diseases. The study emphasized the importance of regular review and analysis of existing evidence-based studies, along with the implementation of new high-quality randomized controlled clinical trials to explore the impact of climate therapy on a wider range of patients with common socially significant diseases. 9 provided a review of historical and contemporary evidence for the medicinal uses of water, demonstrating the use of water for therapeutic purposes in ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Celtic, and Hebrew societies, often alongside herbal medicine. These water-based treatments, including hydrotherapy, balneotherapy, and thalassotherapy, have continued to be used to the present day, although their prevalence has decreased in certain regions, particularly in the Anglo-Saxon world. The review highlights the lack of research funding and the availability of allopathic medicine as factors contributing to this decline.

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

Thalassotherapy offers potential health benefits, including: ・Improved cardiovascular health: 14 ・Enhanced recovery from chronic venous insufficiency: ・Strengthened immune function: 3 ・Relief from asthenia symptoms: 3 ・Prevention of respiratory diseases: 3 ・Improvement of skin conditions: ・Pain relief for arthritis: ・Enhanced rehabilitation: 2 ・Stress reduction and relaxation: 1

Risk Summary

Potential risks associated with thalassotherapy include: ・Allergic reactions: 13 ・Skin irritation: 13 ・Infections from bacteria or viruses in seawater: 6 ・Negative effects of climate change: 4 ・Exacerbation of symptoms in individuals with unsuitable constitutions: 8

Comparison of Studies

Similarities Between Studies

Several studies consistently suggest that thalassotherapy can have positive effects on cardiovascular health, immune function, respiratory diseases, skin conditions, arthritis pain, rehabilitation, and stress reduction. A common understanding across these studies is that seawater and marine resources contain numerous components beneficial to health.

Differences Between Studies

Some discrepancies exist regarding the effects and risks of thalassotherapy. For example, opinions diverge on the possibility of allergic reactions. 13 reported a case of occupational asthma induced by algae powder, suggesting sensitization to algae proteins or metal contaminants as a potential cause. However, 6 investigated the microbiological safety of commercial thalassotherapy products and found no evidence of pathogenic bacteria in the samples analyzed.

Consistency and Discrepancies in Findings

While numerous studies exist on the effects of thalassotherapy, the results show both consistency and discrepancies. Some studies demonstrate the effectiveness of thalassotherapy for specific diseases and symptoms, while others fail to find such effects. These inconsistencies may be attributed to variations in research design, participant characteristics, and the types of seawater and marine resources used.

Cautions for Real-World Application

While thalassotherapy holds promise for numerous health benefits, caution is advised when considering its use. Consulting a physician prior to any treatment is essential to address potential risks such as allergic reactions and infections. It is crucial to recognize that thalassotherapy might not be effective for all conditions or individuals, and its effects can vary based on personal factors.

Current Research Limitations

Current research on thalassotherapy remains limited. Large-scale, rigorous studies are needed to definitively demonstrate the effects of thalassotherapy on specific diseases and symptoms. Additional research is required to determine optimal methods, conditions, and long-term outcomes of thalassotherapy. Further studies are also necessary to ensure the safety of thalassotherapy practices.

Future Research Directions

Future research on thalassotherapy should prioritize conducting clinical trials to clearly establish its efficacy for specific diseases and symptoms. Detailed investigations into the mechanisms of thalassotherapy, optimal application methods, long-term effects, and safety protocols are also warranted.

Conclusion

Thalassotherapy holds potential for improving health, but research findings are mixed. Consult a physician for personalized advice and to ensure suitability for your specific health condition. Further research is crucial to better understand the safety and effectiveness of thalassotherapy, paving the way for wider and more informed use.