Healing cave
History: Where do healing galleries come from?
Healing caves either originate in natural cave formations within mountains or are remnants of historical mining, for example from the extraction of ore, salt or other mineral resources.
Medical use began in the 19th century when miners observed that chronic respiratory diseases improved while working underground.
This experience led to the targeted rededication of individual tunnels for therapeutic purposes.
Since then, numerous disused mines have been converted into healing tunnels and scientifically investigated.
Characteristics: What makes a healing cave?
A healing cave is characterized by an extremely stable microclimate:
- almost 100 % humidity
- constant temperatures (usually between 7 and 10 °C)
- absolute purity of the air: free from pollen, dust and germs
- high concentration of negative ions, which can have an anti-inflammatory effect
These conditions create an environment in which the airways regenerate and the immune system is relieved.
How it works: How does the treatment in a healing cave work?
The therapy is carried out in several sessions over a period of two to four weeks. Patients enter the tunnel by mine train, where they rest for around 60 to 120 minutes wrapped in blankets.
The main treatment consists of passive inhalation of the tunnel air. The effect is based on contact with the clean, ionized and humid air and, in the case of radon tunnels, on the absorption of minimal amounts of radon through the lungs and skin.
Etiquette: How do you behave in a healing cave?
A healing gallery is entered in comfortable clothing or a bathrobe. Mutual consideration and peace and quiet are essential, as relaxation is a central element of the therapy. It is generally not permitted to bring electronic devices.
Indications: How does a healing gallery work?
The therapeutic effect of a healing gallery has been scientifically investigated several times:
- A study by the University of Krakow shows significant improvements in patients with bronchial asthma following healing tunnel treatments (Krakow Academy of Physical Education, 2014).
- The study by Franke et al. (2000) on radon gallery therapy showed a significant reduction in pain in patients with ankylosing spondylitis and chronic back pain, the effects of which can last up to 12 months.
- Further studies indicate positive effects on atopic eczema and COPD.
The effects are based on a combination of climatic influences and, in the case of radon galleries, the stimulation of anti-inflammatory messenger substances.
Contraindications: What are the side effects of a stay in a healing cave?
A stay in a healing cave may be unsuitable for people with
- Claustrophobia (fear of confined, enclosed spaces)
- Pregnancy (for radon galleries)
- Cancer, if treatment was less than a year ago
- Untreated hyperthyroidism, severe heart, kidney or circulatory diseases
- Acute infections or recent operations
Medical advice should always be sought before undergoing therapy.
Distribution: Healing galleries in the DACH region
In German-speaking countries - Germany, Austria and Switzerland - there are a number of particularly effective healing caves. The following overview shows the ten most important facilities at a glance, including special features and therapeutic focuses.
Overview of healing caves in the DACH region
Conclusion
The most important facts about healing caves at a glance
- 1. A stay in a healing cave is a type of climatotherapy.
- 2. The clean air and high humidity are particularly recommended for people with respiratory diseases.
- 3. Radon tunnels are a special type of healing tunnel in which alpha-radon rays activate the body's own self-healing powers.
- 4. Healing caves therapies are at least partially covered by most XXX DELETE XXX health insurance companies.
FAQ - Further questions about Healing caves
There are eleven recognized healing tunnels in Germany, including the Tiefen Stollen in Wasseralfingen (Baden-Württemberg) and the Teufelshöhle in Pottenstein (Franconian Switzerland). In Austria, the Gastein Healing Gallery is one of the best known.
No, the amount of radiation in a radon gallery even has scientifically proven health benefits. However, some groups of people, such as pregnant women, people with hyperthyroidism or cancer patients undergoing or immediately after treatment, should avoid going there.
The duration is usually two to four weeks with several sessions per week of 60 to 120 minutes each.
Many statutory and private XXX DELETE XXX cover part of the costs, especially if prescribed by a doctor.
Heilstollen therapy is mainly used for asthma, chronic bronchitis, COPD, rheumatic diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis or rheumatoid arthritis, atopic eczema and other chronic skin and respiratory diseases. People with allergies or stress-related complaints can also benefit from the therapy.
Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27024946/
- https:// academic.oup.com/rheumatology/article-abstract/39/8/894/1784172
- https://clinconnect.io/trials/NCT06557824