What to Know Before Herbal Steam

What to Know Before Herbal Steam

Herbal steam therapy is one of the therapeutic procedures in traditional Thai medicine that has been passed down through generations since ancient times. In traditional Thai medical practice, herbal steam therapy is regarded as a key treatment modality, alongside massage, herbal compress therapy, and the use of herbal medicines. This therapy primarily utilizes heat and the active properties of medicinal herbs to treat, rehabilitate, and promote overall health and well-being.  

At present, herbal steam therapy has been further developed and is widely used in traditional Thai medical clinics, public healthcare facilities, as well as in the health and spa industry. As a result, this therapy plays an important role in health promotion and reflects the potential of traditional Thai medical wisdom in providing holistic healthcare.

Many people with body aches look for ways to relax and take care of themselves. One option in Thai traditional medicine is herbal steam therapy, which uses steam heat together with herbs such as plai, turmeric, lemongrass, and kaffir lime. The selection of the herbal formulation may be considered according to individual suitability. 

This article explains herbal steam therapy, covering its benefits, precautions, and contraindications to help ensure the service is received appropriately and safely. 

Benefits of Herbal Steam Therapy

• Aids in postpartum recovery

• Helps eliminate lochia

• Relieves muscle aches and promotes muscle relaxation

• Helps the body release sweat and eliminate

• Stimulates blood circulation

• Improves respiratory function and alleviates symptoms of colds and nasal congestion

Precautions

• Individuals with blood pressure lower than 90/60 mmHg or higher than 140/90 mmHg may be at risk of fainting (should be closely monitored)

• The steam session should not exceed 30 minutes, as prolonged exposure may cause fatigue or fainting 

• If chest tightness or difficulty breathing occurs during the session, stop immediately

Contraindications

• High fever above 38.5°C

• All types of contagious diseases, such as tuberculosis

• Chronic medical conditions, such as epilepsy, severe asthma, severe kidney disease, heart disease, or symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath

• Women who are menstruating or pregnant 

• Individuals with open wounds, inflamed wounds, or skin infections 

• Fatigue, lack of sleep, fasting, or immediately after a meal 

• Headache accompanied by dizziness and nausea 

• Individuals with blood pressure higher than 140/90 mmHg who experience lightheadedness, dizziness, headache, nausea, or vomiting 

• Individuals who are allergic to herbs or sensitive to heat 

(After completing the steam session, drink water or an electrolyte drink to replace the fluids lost through sweating)   

Individuals interested in herbal steam therapy may attend a consultation to assess their suitability prior to receiving the service at Gwellness clinic.

Prepared by Nawarat Tanapisankirati, ATTM 

References

พิมพ์วิภา แพรกหา โรงพยาบาลการแพทย์แผนไทย มหาวิทยาลัยสงขลานครินทร์. (31 สิงหาคม 2560). การอบสมุนไพร((ดี))อย่างไร??. คณะการแพทย์แผนไทย มหาวิทยาลัยสงขลานครินทร์. https://www.ttmed.psu.ac.th/th/blog/212

สถานการแพทย์แผนไทยประยุกต์ คณะแพทยศาสตร์ศิริราชพยาบาล มหาวิทยาลัยมหิดล. (8 ธันวาคม 2565). การอบไอน้ำสมุนไพร. คณะแพทยศาสตร์ศิริราชพยาบาล มหาวิทยาลัยมหิดล. https://www.si.mahidol.ac.th/th/healthdetail.asp?aid=1528