Sulfate springs have long been used for treating cuts and burns. As their nickname 'healing waters' suggests, they are believed to aid in wound healing. Additionally, they are known as 'calming waters' due to their combined effects of promoting blood circulation and providing a calming sensation.

What are Sulfate Springs?

Sulfate springs are hot springs that contain a certain amount of sulfate ions. When the concentration of sulfate ions in the spring water exceeds 1,000 mg per kilogram, it is classified as a sulfate spring.

The main components of these springs are sulfate ions combined with calcium, sodium, magnesium, and other cations. Depending on the cation, they are further categorized as 'calcium-sulfate springs,' 'sodium-sulfate springs,' or 'magnesium-sulfate springs.'

Appearance and Characteristics

Color: Clear to milky white Smell: Almost odorless Texture: Smooth pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline

At first glance, they may be difficult to distinguish from simple hot springs, but their composition is entirely different.

Why are They Called 'Healing Waters'?

Sulfate springs are known to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. Enhanced blood circulation is believed to speed up the healing of wounds.

They also have a calming effect, which is why they are referred to as 'calming waters.' They help alleviate pain and have been used for wound treatment since ancient times.

In eras when modern medicine was not yet developed, people relied on the power of hot springs to heal their wounds. Sulfate springs have been cherished since those times.

Three Types

Sulfate springs are divided into three types based on the cation they are combined with.

Calcium-Sulfate Springs (Gypsum Springs): Known for strong calming effects, effective for cuts, burns, and chronic skin diseases. This is the most well-known type of 'healing waters.'

Sodium-Sulfate Springs (Glauber's Salt Springs): Known for strong blood circulation promotion, effective for hypertension, arteriosclerosis, and external injuries. Drinking the water is said to relieve constipation.

Magnesium-Sulfate Springs (Bitter Springs): Combine calming and blood circulation promotion effects. Effective for hypertension and arteriosclerosis.

Main Benefits

Common indications for sulfate springs:

• Cuts, burns
• Chronic skin diseases
• Arteriosclerosis, hypertension
• Neuralgia, muscle pain
• Joint pain, frozen shoulder
• Motor paralysis, joint stiffness
• Chronic digestive disorders, constipation (when ingested)

The dual effects of promoting blood circulation and providing a calming sensation are characteristic.

Notable Sulfate Springs

Hoshi Onsen (Gunma Prefecture): A famous hidden spring known for its calcium-sulfate waters.

Tsukioka Onsen (Niigata Prefecture): A composite spring containing sulfur, also known for its skin beautifying effects.

Akiu Onsen (Miyagi Prefecture): Sodium-calcium-sulfate spring.

Yumura Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture): Calcium-sodium-sulfate spring.

Recommended for

Ideal for those looking to improve blood circulation, people with hypertension, those wanting to speed up wound healing, and those concerned about arteriosclerosis. Sulfate springs are perfect for those concerned about vascular health.

Effects of Drinking the Water

Sulfate springs are also suitable for ingestion.

Drinking sodium-sulfate spring water is said to relieve constipation. However, always follow the facility's instructions when drinking spring water, as not all springs are suitable for ingestion.

Conclusion

Sulfate springs have been cherished as 'healing waters' and 'calming waters' since ancient times. They help dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow, and aid in wound healing.

For those concerned about hypertension or arteriosclerosis, or those looking to improve blood circulation, sulfate springs are ideal. Drinking the water is also said to relieve constipation. Experience the traditional healing waters for yourself.