The water from natural thermal springs often contains minerals because it comes from underground sources that pass through mineral-rich rocks, and thus become enriched with elements such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur during their journey.
Natural hot springs primarily occur when rainwater or meltwater seeps into the ground, descends deep, and then heats up in contact with areas of geothermal heat. Once warmed by the proximity of hot rocks or even by rock layers near magma, this water rises through faults or fissures in the ground and emerges at the surface, forming a natural hot spring. These underground pathways often occur in regions with high tectonic or volcanic activity, as the Earth's crust is fissured there and heat resources are abundant. This heat is either from magma in volcanic areas or simply from the depths of the Earth's crust, where the temperature naturally increases with depth, a phenomenon known as geothermal gradient.
When water becomes hot, it significantly increases its ability to dissolve minerals along its path. Basically, heat boosts chemical action: the reactions between water and rocks become faster and more efficient. This allows more mineral elements, such as calcium, magnesium, or sulfur, to leave the rocks and roam freely in the thermal water. The hotter the water, the more easily it picks up these minerals along the way, which explains the high concentrations found in hot springs.
The nature of the rocks traversed directly influences the minerals dissolved in the water. For example, when water flows among limestone or dolomitic rocks, it quickly becomes rich in calcium and magnesium. If it flows along volcanic or granitic terrains, it absorbs minerals such as silica, sulfur, or iron. Some rocks, like gypsum, easily release sulfur, resulting in water particularly high in sulfates, known for their benefits to the skin. Conversely, layers of clay or slate tend to filter out minerals, resulting in water that is purer but less mineral-rich. In short, the surrounding rocks really determine what you will find in your thermal bath!
When water seeps underground, it often travels kilometers deep. During its underground journey, it passes through all sorts of faults, cracks, and rock galleries. The longer and slower this journey is, the more time the water has to quietly absorb minerals. Essentially, the longer it lingers, the more it fills its pockets. If the water encounters certain mineral-rich rocks like limestone, granite, or gypsum, it will naturally dissolve these minerals along the way. By the end of the journey, when it emerges as a hot spring, that’s why it is often rich in various elements.
Thermal water often contains various minerals, each with its little hidden powers. For example, sulfur is known to soothe certain skin problems and relieve joint pain. Magnesium, on the other hand, combats stress and helps your muscles relax gently. Calcium, well-known for strengthening bones, also helps to soothe irritated skin. There’s also potassium, which is good for regulating blood pressure, and silicon, useful for making skin and hair stronger. Even trace elements like iron sometimes appear, helping to fight fatigue or improving tissue oxygenation. In short, these mineral waters are a completely natural cocktail that benefits both the body and the mind.
The presence of sulfur in certain hot springs explains their distinctive rotten egg smell; however, despite its odor, sulfur has many benefits for the skin and the respiratory system.
The thermal springs from the ocean depths, known as hydrothermal vents, can exceed 350°C and harbor a remarkable ecosystem based on bacteria that can live without sunlight.
Some thermal waters can remain underground for thousands of years before surfacing, thus accumulating a maximum of minerals during their underground journey.
Each thermal site has a unique 'mineral signature' that directly depends on the type of rock the water passes through during its underground journey.
Overall, the mineral properties remain relatively stable when the waters are properly preserved. However, to fully enjoy their benefits, it is recommended to use them fairly soon after extraction or to choose those packaged under optimal conditions.
Thermal waters often contain calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, sulfates, bicarbonates, as well as traces of trace elements such as iron, zinc, silicon, or even lithium. The exact composition varies depending on the geological formations encountered.
Yes, generally they pose no danger and can even offer various health benefits. However, it is advisable for individuals with certain medical conditions (such as kidney failure) to consult a professional before use.
Although they offer many recognized therapeutic benefits, thermal waters are particularly effective in specific treatments such as the management of rheumatic conditions, dermatological issues (eczema, psoriasis), and certain respiratory disorders. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for specific recommendations.
Hot water has increased energy, which accelerates chemical reactions and allows for a greater dissolution of minerals contained in the rocks it passes through. Thus, thermal waters often emerge rich in minerals beneficial to health.
No, the thermal waters vary greatly depending on their geological origin and underground pathways. Each spring thus has a unique mineral signature that determines its specific benefits.
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