What is Complementary Medicine?

What Is Thermal Therapy as a Complementary Medicine Practice?

Complementary medicine refers to therapeutic practices recommended as support to modern medical treatment protocols. These applications should be performed by specialized physicians and conducted in institutions authorized by the Ministry of Health.

On October 27, 2014, with Official Gazette No. 29158, the Ministry of Health published the "Regulation on Traditional and Complementary Medicine Practices," thereby formally recognizing complementary medicine under specified conditions and rules.

When referring to complementary medicine, it should be understood as methods performed by expert physicians using approaches alongside modern medical techniques. However, it is imperative that these treatments are carried out by specialists in institutions and organizations authorized by the Ministry of Health.

Complementary medicine is not an alternative to conventional medicine. Instead, it offers a holistic approach to the patient and their illness. Many of its methods are even integrated into Western medicine and can be applied together with traditional treatments.

Among the most well-known and widespread applications of complementary medicine is spa treatment, also known as thermal therapy. The healing properties of thermal water have been well documented for centuries and have been used since ancient times to treat various medical conditions. Hippocrates, who first viewed disease as an imbalance in the body, believed this balance could be restored through water, healthy living, light, nutrition, massage, and mental peace. He regarded hydrotherapy—the use of thermal and seawater to improve skin diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory problems, pain, etc.—as a legitimate treatment method.

We live on a planet composed of approximately 70% water, and all life depends on it. Our bodies are about 70% water. While we can survive up to 40 days without food, we can only survive 3-4 days without water. Water holds great significance in many civilizations and religions. Given that water is such a vital part of our planet and lives, it is not surprising that it offers significant health benefits.

Thermal water therapy has been proven to reduce physical tension and mental stress. Immersing the body in warm water can decrease cortisol and other stress-related hormone levels, leading to muscle relaxation and reduced anxiety.

Thermal water helps mitigate the negative health effects and stresses associated with modern lifestyles. Therefore, if you wish to relax and reduce stress, a stay in a thermal & spa setting might be perfectly suited for you.