Climatotherapy
Climatotherapy refers to temporary or permanent relocation of a patient to a region with a climate more favourable to recovery from or management of a condition.
Climatotherapy is a natural approach to the treatment of psoriasis and other skin conditions, and has been successfully used for more than 25 years in the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis.
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The Dead Sea is one location where suffers of psoriasis visit to sample the natural healing powers which can assist with the treatment of psoriasis. The Dead Sea which is 400 meters below sea level is the lowest point on earth and lies in the southern part of Israel and is part of the Great Rift Valley. The water has a 33% concentration of salt (compares to only 3% in the ocean) and minerals such as calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium and bromide. |
The high salt and mineral concentration allows everyone to float and relax in its waters.
It is called the Dead Sea because no fish or water plants live in it due to its high salinity. The natural elements and minerals, in addition to the mud on the shores, give the water curative powers.
The sunshine in this area is unique. Due to the water evaporating quickly in the intense heat, the Dead Sea has its own ozone layer hanging over it. The haze helps to filter out more of the damaging ultraviolet rays that can cause skin cancer, burning and ageing. This allows the duration of exposure to be dramatically increased. The air is extremely dry, unpolluted and pollen free.
The temperature of the area is high all year round, humidity is low, and so is rainfall. The haze over the Dead Sea is rich in minerals - particularly bromine. It is thought that inhalation of bromides improves the condition of psoriasis, particularly those with stress-related psoriasis as they have a relaxing/sedative effect. The atmosphere is also oxygen rich.
In addition the Dead Sea area is mainly clear of pollution such as industrial waste, heavy traffic, vegetation. The growth of house dust mites is inhibited in this type of climate and as such is pollution free.
Combined, these natural elements offer an excellent alternative treatment for psoriasis.
Psoriasis sufferers should consult their GP before considering a stay at the Dead Sea.
Information written by the talkhealth medical panel
Last Reviewed: 17 January 2011
Next Review Date: 17 January 2013
