For many people, a whirlpool, spa bath, or sauna may simply be a great way to relax and unwind; however, for those people suffering from a number of different adverse health conditions, these products can also provide relief and treatment.  The word spa relates to the word balneotherapy – or the treatment of disease by bathing.  Health treatments involving water, massage by moving water, stimulation, relaxation, and water minerals have been around since prehistoric times.  While the ancient world may have bathed in special mineral rich springs as a way to achieve spiritual health and well being, in the modern world, spas are used for relaxation and treatment.  Health spas and hot tubs are being used in day spas, spa resorts, specialised health centres, rehabilitation hospitals, and even at individual homes around the world.

Balneotherapy is a term used to refer to a number of alternative spa treatments, including drinking spa waters, using vapor and steam, and using mud and sand for the treatment of various health conditions. Balneotherapy refers to the medical use of spas – although the medical benefits are controversial – as opposed to the more popular recreational use of spa products.  There are a number of potentially beneficial minerals found in many spa waters, including sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, arsenic, lithium, potassium, manganese, bromine, and iodine.  Treatment centres may also add extra minerals and essential oils to specific treatments, depending on individual requirements.

Along with many alternative and complementary health centres providing spa treatment for healing and health, many mainstream medical facilities also use water treatments as a way to treat injury, arthritis, and a number of skin conditions.  Many people who are being rehabilitated from an accident or have to suffer from a chronic condition choose to purchase a garden whirlpool (Garten Whirlpool) for their own homes, as a way to make sure they always have the relief that they need.  Whether they are being used for health or for relaxation, there are people all over the world who extol the virtues of spa baths and the treatment they provide.