Steam and sauna bathing beneficial for detoxification

* I am interested in taking up the practice of steam bathing.

I have heard that steam rooms are very good for clearing out toxins. I recently met a woman who swears by them for health and longevity.

>> I am not sure if the practise of steam and sauna bathing can add years to your life, but it certainly can help with lots of health issues.

It is important to note that there are individuals who should avoid the use of steam and sauna treatments — people with kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, or heart problems in particular. Pregnant women should also avoid steam rooms, saunas and hot tubs.

Steam and sauna bathing is certainly beneficial for detoxification, since this can help in situations where there is a concern of overloading the organs with a detoxification programme.

Raising the body temperature in this way also helps to strengthen resistance to illness by stimulating the immune system and increasing the white blood cell count, slowing down the growth rate of bacteria and viruses. Facial steaming can be an effective treatment to clear sinus passages, reduce bronchial congestion, and speed recovery from the common cold.

* A friend recently recommended MSM to improve my hair and nails. My nails are very weak, and my hair has become lifeless during the past five years or more. She told me it is a natural remedy, but I am concerned because it has a chemical sounding name. Please help.

>> MSM, also known as Methyl Sulphonyl Methane, is simply organic sulphur — despite the daunting name. Your friend is quite correct — this is a great supplement to help improve the condition of hair, skin, nails, and musculoskeletal issues.

Sulphur is crucial for the production of keratin and collagen, it is also a component of cysteine — which accounts for about 14% of skin and hair composition.

It is not surprising that organic sulphur is necessary for the repair and growth of most tissues in the body, whether it be a case of natural ageing, or wounds.

MSM also helps prevent dry skin and maintaining elasticity.

As we age, natural levels of MSM decline and modern processing and heating destroys much of this nutrient in our foods. It is often referred to as a “beauty mineral” because of the role it plays in keeping hair glossy, nails strong, and the complexion youthful. But it also plays a significant role in keeping the body moving since it works to keep ligaments and joints in great shape.

You can get MSM in capsule, crystal, and topical applications, often combined with other nutrients for skin health. To improve the condition of your hair and nails, it’s best to take it internally. Capsules are the easiest way to do this, although it can get expensive. Ideally, you need to take at least 3,000mg daily, and it is best taken together with vitamin C.

If you can find MSM crystals, take a level teaspoon each morning stirred into a large glass (300-500ml) of freshly squeezed orange juice.

Topically it can help with scar tissue, acne, nappy rash, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, rosacea, dry skin, scabies, fungal infections, ageing, sun damage, wound healing, and joint pain or stiffness.

Note: There are a group of synthetic compounds referred to as Sulpha Drugs, known to cause allergic reactions in a number of individuals. These are entirely different to organic sulphur, and an allergy to these drugs does not indicate that a person would be allergic to MSM.