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Sea water has several properties that make it beneficial to health, especially with regard to improving the appearance of the skin, treating inflammatory diseases, reducing stress and increasing the feeling of well-being.
These benefits are possible due to the fact that sea water is rich in minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, chromium, selenium, zinc and vanadium, which also have important roles in the human body. In addition, the benefits of sea water are related to the fact that the cells of the body are immersed in a liquid that has a composition very similar to that of sea water and that favors cellular activities related to metabolism.
In this way, sea water has a great compatibility with these fluids, having numerous health benefits, since the human being needs all the minerals that are present in sea water. Therefore, a salt water bath is enough for these minerals to be absorbed by the skin and have benefits.
1. Contributes to skin health
Minerals such as sodium, potassium, iodine, zinc, silicon and magnesium are very important for cell regeneration and skin hydration and help to reduce water loss through the skin. In addition, seawater also has a disinfectant and antiseptic action, so it is very effective in relieving the symptoms of psoriasis and eczema, and in improving acne.
Sea water also works as a natural exfoliator, due to the presence of salt and the algae present in the sea, rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, also contribute to healthy skin.
2. Clear the airways
As sea water is a water concentrated in minerals that help to hydrate and fluidize the mucous membranes, it is widely used for nasal application in situations of allergy, colds, flu or nasal congestion, for example.
There are already spray devices that have sea water in their composition, so that the application is easier and more effective, which can be purchased in pharmacies.
In addition, there are studies that indicate that seawater has positive effects in the treatment of cystic fibrosis, since it is able to eliminate the excess mucus accumulated in the lungs of people with this disease.
3. Relieves heavy legs
The cold sea waves on the legs, promote vasoconstriction and increase tissue oxygenation, which improves blood circulation, reducing the swelling characteristic of heavy legs.
4. Improves rheumatic diseases
Due to the composition of minerals such as calcium, magnesium and other trace elements, seawater improves the symptoms of all joint diseases, as it is able to reduce inflammation. In addition, the fact that the person moves at sea, also contributes to muscle and joint health.
5. Reduces stress and anxiety
Due to its magnesium composition, which has a relaxing action, sea water helps to relieve muscle tension, stress and anxiety. Thus, a way to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being is through the practice of exercises or activities at sea, such as swimming, for example.
This is because the practice of physical activities promotes the release of cortisol, which helps to relieve symptoms of anxiety and stress. In addition, the practice of activities promotes changes in breathing patterns, which also helps to relax.
See other ways to combat stress and anxiety.
6. Improves the immune system
Due to the fact that sea water is rich in minerals, it is possible that it has a positive effect on the body's cells, stimulating their function and promoting the strengthening of the immune system.
Check out more tips to strengthen the immune system:
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team
Bibliography>
- HODAK, Emmilia et al. Climatotherapy at the Dead Sea is a remittive therapy for psoriasis: combined effects on epidermal and immunologic activation. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Vol 49. 3rd ed; 451–457, 2003
- MITCHELL, Richard. Is physical activity in natural environments better for mental health than physical activity in other environments?. Social Science & Medicine. Vol 91. 130-134, 2013
- NANI, Samihah Z. M. et al. Potential Health Benefits of Deep Sea Water: A Review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2016