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Ikime Onsen

Water profile

Ikime Onsen

Spring chemistry and what it does, with the research behind it.

Simple

A gentle simple thermal spring, given on its efficacy panel as simple thermal water and nothing more — mild and low in stimulus. The documented bathing indications run wide: neuralgia, muscle and joint pain, joint stiffness, frozen shoulder, motor paralysis, bruises and sprains, chronic digestive complaints, hemorrhoids and cold sensitivity, fatigue recovery, and a skin-beautifying effect. Drinking is not permitted — the panel states the water has had no drinking analysis and holds no drinking permit — and the same notice advises easing in with soaks of three to ten minutes, once a day for the first few days.

Good for

Recovery

Warmth and buoyancy lower stress markers and improve sleep; habitual bathing is linked to lower rates of depression.

fatigue, stress

On the certificate:Fatigue recoveryGeneral health improvement

Take care

Contraindications
  • Acute illness (when fever is present)
  • Active tuberculosis
  • Malignant tumor
  • Severe heart disease
  • Respiratory failure
  • Renal failure and bleeding disorders
  • Severe anemia
  • Pregnancy (especially early and late stages)

On the certificate

  • Neuralgia
  • Muscle pain
  • Joint pain
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Motor paralysis
  • Joint stiffness
  • Bruises and sprains
  • Chronic digestive disorders
  • Hemorrhoids and cold sensitivity
  • Skin-beautifying effect

Evidence

  1. Maeda M. 温泉の医学的効果とその科学的根拠. J. Hot Spring Science 70:197–207, 2021.
  2. Takeda M et al. Hot spring bathing practices have a positive effect on mental health in Japan. Heliyon 9(9):e19631, 2023.

Educational, not medical advice. If you have a health condition, consult a physician before onsen therapy.