Reply #20: as posted below

[Prometheuspan]

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=222&topic_id=78009&mesg_id=78036

In this case, the important thing to know is I would not offer this advice if i did not know with certainty that it was golden.


a better question would be, "what is the science behind this solution?"

There are several answers...

http://www.alive.com/806a3a2.php?subject_bread_cramb=233



Hot Water

Hot water sedates and draws out stress. Unlike cold water therapy, warm to hot water is most effective when applied for longer periods or in alternation with cold. In a non-inflammatory situation, heat reduces pain and infection by opening blood vessels, relaxing muscles, eliminating toxins and inducing perspiration. The intense heat of steam cleanses facial pores and clears congestion in the chest, sinus infections and allergies. Saunas are excellent therapeutic aids for arthritic and muscle pain, treating skin problems and combating recurring colds and fatigue by improving overall resistance to illness.

Baths

If you have never given a hot bath a chance, now is the time to try it. A hot bath relaxes the nervous system, relieves sore muscles and joints after strenuous exercise and soothes the pain of rheumatism, arthritis and backaches. If you are troubled by insomnia or tension, a nightly hot soak dissolves stress and prepares the body for a sound sleep. To ease the discomfort of a cold, a hot bath brings blood to the surface and encourages perspiration to release toxins and help the body fight a cold more effectively. If you are chilled and feel a cold coming on, a hot bath can abort the infection before it takes hold.

When taking a hot bath or trying any technique for the first time, start slowly and remain in your own comfort level to suit your needs. You can increase the time and temperature each time. A cold cloth on the forehead will prevent overheating. As a general guide, take the bath as hot as possible for up to 20 minutes and get out of the bath slowly and carefully. If you have serious heart problems or a fever, hot baths are not recommended. Be sure to drink plenty of water before and in the bath and go straight to bed after so you don’t get chilled. If you plan to continue your day’s work, end the bath with a quick cold rinse and plan for a shorter rest of 20 minutes or so.

Steam




http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&hs=dRx&q=hot+water+therapy&btnG=Search&aq=f&oq=&aqi=g2