Mud is an important element of nature. It contains important minerals which have positive effects on human health. Mud can absorb toxins from human body therefore is very useful in preventing many diseases. It is also known for its healing properties. It also helps in cooling and relaxing body as it can hold moisture for a long time.

The Vedas are filled with the detail of Mud or Earth and its benefits. Various methods and treatments have been defined in the Vedas for the ailing. Mud was and is supposed to be one of the most beneficial remedies of all times.

Why use mud therapy?

Out of the five constituent elements of this universe mud (earth) has a pivotal role to play in our well being. The dark color of mud helps in absorbing different colors and conveying them to the the body, giving it therapeutic properties. Also, its shape and consistency may be modified with ease, just by changing the water content, which makes it easy to use. A mud pack is advantageous over a cold compress (cold water therapy) as it retains the coolness over a longer period of time. Therefore, it is recommended whenever a prolonged cold application is required. Lastly, it is easily available and a cost effective treatment option.

Mud also helps in clearing the dark spots on the face, is good for patients suffering from heat or heart burn and helps in treating diseases like psoriasis, leucoderma and even leprosy. Even diseases like Rheumatic Pain or the pain caused by injuries can be treated by the Mud Application.

Mud is usually taken from the river beds or from plain hills. The Naturopathy practitioners make extensive use of the Mud in treating various ailments.

Usually Mud Therapy is done in two ways:

• Mud Packs
• Mud Bath

The Mud Pack is prepared by the clay obtained from about 10 cms below the surface of earth, after ensuring that it does not contain any composite or any pebbles. Mud packs are typically used for local application. The construct and usage of a mudpack is similar for all applications on the thickness and the size varies as per the usage. To make a mud pack first soak mud in water for 30 minutes. Now take a thin wet muslin cloth and apply mud evenly on the muslin cloth to form a uniform thin layer of half to one inch in thickness. Fold all the sides to make it a compact pack.

In Mud Bath, This involves application of special kind of mud rich in natural salts and mineral over the entire body ( except head). Mud baths are useful in many skin diseases such as Psoriasis, Urticaria, leucoderma. A massage is done and when the clay gets dried up its washed off with cleansing water bath. The Mud Bath is useful for toning up the skin by improving the blood circulation. The Mud Bath is especially useful in getting temporary relief from rheumatic pain or pains caused by injuries or accidents. Usually the duration of the bath is from 20 to 30 minutes.

The Mud Therapy also makes use of the Hot and Cold Mud Therapy. This Therapy is helpful in reliving chronic pains, intestinal cramps and lumbago. Others like amoebiasis, colitis, enteritis and other inflammatory conditions of bacterial origin are also treated by the Hot and Cold Mud Therapy.