Herbs and plantsPeat mud — bog mud that treats joints and infertility?
Sources: 12 · Article: 20 524 characters
Peat mud is used mainly in baths, compresses and wraps, and its extracts are also used in cosmetics and medicinal products.
- Compresses and tampons are used for joint, muscle and nerve problems, as well as chronic inflammation of the genital organs.
- The described uses also include skin, respiratory and immune problems, and some eye diseases; Fibs is given by injection.
- Extracts in cosmetics are intended to support skin and hair care, while extracts taken by mouth are intended to support immunity and digestive function.
What the authors write
Henryk Różański
Peat mud is used mainly in baths, wraps and compresses.
„Peat mud is best known for its use in baths, wraps and compresses in spa treatment. Popular products include Iwonicz peat-mud cubes, peat mud in the form of a moist mass in buckets, and peat-mud salt.
Indications: inflammatory and degenerative conditions of the joints and bones, tendons and muscles; neuralgia; chronic inflammation of female and some male genital organs; inflammation of the gallbladder.”Borowina jest znana głównie z zastosowania do kąpieli, owijania i okładów, w lecznictwie uzdrowiskowym. Popularna jest kostka borowinowa Iwonicka, borowina w formie wilgotnej masy w wiaderkach oraz sól borowinowa.
Wskazania: stany zapalne i zwyrodnieniowe stawów i kości, ścięgien i mięśni, nerwobóle, przewlekłe stany zapalne kobiecych narządów płciowych i niektórych męskich, stany zapalne pęcherzyka żółciowego.
Henryk Różański
Peat-mud compresses are used for inflammation and degenerative changes in the joints, bones, tendons and muscles, as well as for neuralgia.
„Indications: inflammatory and degenerative conditions of the joints and bones, tendons and muscles; neuralgia; chronic inflammation of female and some male genital organs; inflammation of the gallbladder. Infertility. Lymphatic and exudative diatheses with complications, rickets, atherosclerosis of the arteries, catarrh and recurrent inflammation of the respiratory system (including the sinuses), metal and drug poisoning; scanty menstrual bleeding, skin infections and inflammation, peritoneal adhesions, peptic ulcer disease.”Wskazania: stany zapalne i zwyrodnieniowe stawów i kości, ścięgien i mięśni, nerwobóle, przewlekłe stany zapalne kobiecych narządów płciowych i niektórych męskich, stany zapalne pęcherzyka żółciowego. Niepłodność. Skazy limfatyczne i wysiękowe z powikłaniami, krzywica, miażdżyca tętnic, nieżyty i nawracające stany zapalne układu oddechowego (w tym zatok), zatrucia metalami i lekami; skąpe krwawienia miesiączkowe, infekcje oraz stany zapalne skóry, zrosty otrzewnowe, choroba wrzodowa.
Henryk Różański
Peat mud was used for chronic inflammation of the genital organs, infertility, scanty periods, and some problems with the prostate and testicles.
„Such tampons were used to treat inflammation of the testicles, prostate and seminal vesicles, vaginal erosions, vaginal discharge, and inflammation of the vagina, uterus and ovaries. External compresses were also used. Suppositories containing peat-mud extract can also be made.”Leczono takimi tamponami zapalenie jąder, prostaty, pęcherzyków nasiennych, nadżerki pochwy, upławy, stany zapalne pochwy i macicy oraz jajników. Dodatkowo były stosowane okłady zewnętrzne. Możliwe jest róznież sporządzenie czopków zawierających ekstrakt z borowiny.
Henryk Różański
Peat mud is also used for respiratory, skin, lymphatic and exudative problems, as well as some other conditions.
„Indications: inflammatory and degenerative conditions of the joints and bones, tendons and muscles; neuralgia; chronic inflammation of female and some male genital organs; inflammation of the gallbladder. Infertility. Lymphatic and exudative diatheses with complications, rickets, atherosclerosis of the arteries, catarrh and recurrent inflammation of the respiratory system (including the sinuses), metal and drug poisoning; scanty menstrual bleeding, skin infections and inflammation, peritoneal adhesions, peptic ulcer disease.”Wskazania: stany zapalne i zwyrodnieniowe stawów i kości, ścięgien i mięśni, nerwobóle, przewlekłe stany zapalne kobiecych narządów płciowych i niektórych męskich, stany zapalne pęcherzyka żółciowego. Niepłodność. Skazy limfatyczne i wysiękowe z powikłaniami, krzywica, miażdżyca tętnic, nieżyty i nawracające stany zapalne układu oddechowego (w tym zatok), zatrucia metalami i lekami; skąpe krwawienia miesiączkowe, infekcje oraz stany zapalne skóry, zrosty otrzewnowe, choroba wrzodowa.
Henryk Różański
Cool peat-mud compresses were recommended for thrombophlebitis.
„Cool peat-mud compresses were recommended for the treatment of thrombophlebitis.
The therapeutic effects of peat mud when applied externally have not been adequately explained. Peat mud is certainly a poor conductor of heat and warms the tissues. Its components easily pass through the skin into the blood and lymph.”Chłodne okłady z borowiny zalecano w leczeniu zakrzepowego zapalenia żył.
Oddziaływanie lecznicze borowiny po zastosowaniu zewnętrznym nie jest wyjaśnione w dostatecznym stopniu. Z pewnością borowina jako zły przewodnik ciepła rozgrzewa tkanki. Składniki borowiny wnikają łatwo przez skórę do krwi i limfy.
Henryk Różański
Peat mud is said to relieve pain, relax muscles, and improve blood and lymph circulation.
„Peat mud changes electrochemical processes and electrical charges in the skin and subcutaneous tissue, relaxes muscles, relieves pain, and improves blood and lymph circulation. Hydrostatic pressure and the viscosity of peat mud affect circulation in the fluid connective tissue.”Borowina: zmienia procesy elektrochemiczne w tkance skórnej i podskórnej, zmienia ładunki, rozluźnia mięśnie, działa przeciwbólowo, poprawia krążenie krwi i chłonki. Na krążenie tkanki łącznej płynnej ma wpływ ciśnienie hydrostatyczne i lepkość borowiny.
Henryk Różański
Peat mud is said to help the body absorb exudates around the joints, skin, nerves and muscles.
„Congested, inflammatory exudates around the joints and skin, subcutaneous connective tissue, and the tissues around nerves and muscles are absorbed. Peat mud contains anti-itching, disinfectant and pain-relieving components. It affects the pituitary-adrenal-ovarian hormonal system.”Wchłonięciu ulegają wysięki zastoinowe, prozapalne z okolic stawów i skóry, tkanki łącznej podskórnej i wokół nerwów oraz mięśni. Borowina zawiera składniki przeciwświądowe, odkażające i przeciwbólowe. Borowina wpływa na układ hormonalny przysadkowo-nadnerczowo-jajnikowy.
Henryk Różański
Fibs, a peat-mud extract preparation, is given intramuscularly or subcutaneously and used for selected diseases of the eyes, joints, skin, genital organs and respiratory system.
„An interesting and valuable peat-mud preparation is Fibs (ampoules), intended for intramuscular and subcutaneous use. It has a strong anti-exudative and anti-swelling effect, stimulates the immune system, supports tissue regeneration, and stimulates metabolism.”Interesującym i wartościowym preparatem z borowiny jest Fibs (ampułki) przeznaczony do podawania domięśniowego i podskórnego. Działa on silnie: przeciwwysiękowo, przeciwobrzękowo, immunostymulująco, regenerująco na tkanki i pobudzająco na przemianę materii.
Henryk Różański
Fibs is described as a preparation used for inflammation and damage to the eye, immune deficiencies, and certain infections and inflammatory diseases.
„Indications for Fibs include: inflammation and damage to the cornea, vitreous opacity, conjunctivitis, scleritis, trachoma, choroiditis and retinitis, degenerative and atrophic diseases of the retina; inflammation of the biliary system, viral hepatitis, degenerative and inflammatory diseases of the joints, bones, muscles and nerves; chronic skin infections; inflammation of the genital organs (e.g. inflammation of the ovaries and testicles), infertility, scanty and irregular periods; immune deficiencies; and inflammation of the respiratory system.”Wskazaniami do stosowania preparatu Fibs są: stany zapalne i uszkodzenia rogówki, zmętnienie ciała szklistego, zapalenie spojówek, zapalenie twardówki, jaglica, zapalenie naczyniówki i siatkówki, choroby zwyrodnieniowe i zanikowe siatkówki; zapalenie układu żółciowego, wirusowe zapalenie wątroby, zwyrodnieniowe i zapalne choroby stawów, kości, mięśni i nerwów; przewlekłe infekcje skóry; zapalenie narządów płciowych (np. zapalenie jajników i jąder), niepłodność, skąpe i nieregularne miesiączki; niedobory odpornościowe, stany zapalne układu oddechowego.
Henryk Różański
Peat-mud extracts in cosmetics are used, among other things, to care for acne-prone, dry, tired or damaged skin.
„They have a beneficial effect on skin affected by steroid-induced, teenage, androgenic, cosmetic or occupational acne, and seborrheic dermatitis. They improve the condition of tired, dry skin with trophic disorders, as well as skin damaged by various procedures or occupational exposure.”Korzystnie działają na skórę z trądzikiem: sterydowym, młodzieńczym, androgennym, kosmetycznym, zawodowym, łojotokowym zapaleniem skóry. Poprawiają stan skóry zmęczonej, suchej, z zaburzeniami troficznymi, a także zniszczonej rozmaitymi zabiegami lub uszkodzonej zawodowo.
Henryk Różański
Peat mud is said to support hair growth and help bruises, contusions and skin swelling subside.
„Peat mud stimulates the vital processes of hair follicles and encourages hair growth. It is said to effectively remove hematomas, bruises and swelling on the skin of the face, under the eyes and on the lips.
I used water-alcohol and aqueous peat-mud extracts in ratios of 1:3 and 1:5 orally at a dose of 10–15 ml, 2 times a day.”Borowina pobudza procesy życiowe cebulek włosowych – stymuluje włosy do wzrostu. Borowina doskonale usuwa: krwiaki, siniaki i obrzęki na skórze twarzy, pod oczami, na wargach.
Wodno-alkoholowe i wodne ekstrakty z borowiny w proporcjach 1:3 i 1:5 stosowałem doustnie w dawce 10–15 ml, 2 razy dziennie.
Henryk Różański
Aqueous and water-alcohol peat-mud extracts have been described as being taken by mouth; they are said to stimulate immunity and peristalsis and to have antifungal and antibacterial effects in the digestive tract.
„I used water-alcohol and aqueous peat-mud extracts at ratios of 1:3 and 1:5 orally at a dose of 10–15 ml 2 times a day. They stimulate the immune system through the GALT system and have antifungal and antibacterial effects in the digestive tract. They improve well-being and strengthen the body physically.”Wodno-alkoholowe i wodne ekstrakty z borowiny 1:3 i 1:5 stosowałem doustnie w dawce 10-15 ml 2 razy dziennie. Pobudzają one układ odpornościowy za pośrednictwem systemu GALT, działają przeciwgrzybiczo i antybakteryjnie w przewodzie pokarmowym. Poprawiają samopoczucie, wzmacniają fizycznie.
Henryk Różański
Peat-mud extracts taken by mouth have also been described as improving well-being and strengthening the body physically.
„I used water-alcohol and aqueous peat-mud extracts in ratios of 1:3 and 1:5 orally at a dose of 10–15 ml, 2 times a day. They stimulate the immune system through the GALT system and have antifungal and antibacterial effects in the digestive tract. They improve well-being and strengthen the body physically. They also stimulate peristalsis in the digestive tract.”Wodno-alkoholowe i wodne ekstrakty z borowiny w proporcjach 1:3 i 1:5 stosowałem doustnie w dawce 10–15 ml, 2 razy dziennie. Pobudzają one układ odpornościowy za pośrednictwem systemu GALT, działają przeciwgrzybiczo i antybakteryjnie w przewodzie pokarmowym. Poprawiają samopoczucie, wzmacniają fizycznie. Pobudzają również perystaltykę przewodu pokarmowego.
Henryk Różański
It was stated that a preparation containing peat-mud distillate has no effect when taken by mouth.
„Its effects have not been fully explained. It is not known how Fibs improves vision in some people with myopia.
The preparation has no effect when taken by mouth.”Działanie do końca nie jest wyjaśnione. Nie zostało wyjaśnione w jaki sposób Fibs poprawia wzrok przy krótkowzroczności u niektórych osób.
Po podaniu doustnym preparat nie działa.
Henryk Różański
Peat-mud extract has been described as being used for immune deficiencies, chronic inflammation and wounds that are difficult to heal.
„Indications: immune deficiencies; debilitating infectious diseases; cancer; inflammation of the uterine adnexa, infertility, chronic vaginal discharge and inflammation of the genital tract; chronic inflammation of the respiratory system; treatment-resistant acne; internal and external parasitic diseases; psoriasis, periarticular exudates in inflammatory joint conditions; cataracts, vitreous opacity, conjunctivitis and inflammation of the eyelid margins, keratitis and choroiditis, retinitis, retinal detachment; chronic eye fatigue and tearing; atopic dermatitis; chronic eczema; susceptibility to infections; restorative treatments. Muscle inflammation and pain. Recovery after strenuous physical exertion. Wounds that are difficult to heal.”Wskazania: niedobory odpornościowe; wyniszczające choroby zakaźne; choroba nowotworowa; zapalenie przydatków, niepłodność, przewlekłe upławy i stany zapalne dróg rodnych; przewlekłe stany zapalne układu oddechowego; oporny na leczenie trądzik; choroby pasożytnicze wewnętrzne i zewnętrzne; łuszczyca, wysięki okołostawowe z stanach zapalnych stawów; zaćma, zmętnienie ciała szklistego, zapalenie spojówek i brzegów powiek, zapalenie rogówki i naczyniówki, zapalenie siatkówki, odklejanie się siatkówki; przewlekłe zmęczenie i łzawienie oczu; atopowe zapalenie skóry; przewlekłe wypryski; podatność na infekcje; kuracje odnawiające. Stany zapalne i bóle mięśni. Regeneracja po dużym wysiłku fizycznym. Trudno gojące się rany.
Research from PubMed · Europe PMC
We selected 6 studies with the best, positive results. This is a selection, not a full review of all research.
Total number of studies on this topic in PubMed: 10.
In people with knee osteoarthritis, peat mud reduced pain more than a hot compress alone and improved selected walking measures.
Results: VAS in the peat group decreased from 6.000 to 3.409 after intervention (p < 0.001) and also decreased in the control group from 5.737 to 4.421 (p < 0.001). VAS score reduction between two periods was greater in the peat group than that in the control group (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the serum COMP level in either intergroup or intragroup analysis. In gait analysis, the gait velocity of the peat group increased from 0.781 m/s to 0.873 m/s after intervention (p=0.002), while it decreased in the control group. The knee varus/valgus range of motion during gaits was reduced from 11.455° to 8.439° after intervention in the peat group (p=0.006). This study showed that peat can be considered as a therapeutic option for pain relief of knee osteoarthritis patients.
Money for the studygovernment, public institutions · Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries
Do the authors have ties to companies?no — the authors say so
Did a manufacturer help with the study?NO
Type of studystudy with random allocation to groups (RCT)
“Not stated” does not mean nobody paid — the database does not always record it.
In a zebrafish study, polysaccharides from mature peat mud showed anti-inflammatory effects.
Aim of the study: The Euganean Thermal District, situated in North-East Italy, is one of Europe's largest and oldest thermal centres. The topical application of its therapeutic thermal muds is recognised by the Italian Health System as a beneficial treatment for patients suffering from arthro-rheumatic diseases.
Results: Additionally, mature muds were characterized for their microbiota composition using Next-Generation Sequencing. The results showed that all M-PSs exhibit similar anti-inflammatory potential, referable to their comparable chemical composition. This consistency was observed despite changes in cyanobacteria populations, suggesting a possible role of the entire microbial community in shaping the properties of these biomolecules. These findings highlight the importance of scientific research in untangling the origins of the therapeutic efficacy of Euganean Thermal muds in the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions.
Money for the studyuniversity or foundation · Pietro d’Abano Thermal Studies Center, Department of Biology, University of Padova
Do the authors have ties to companies?no — the authors say so
Did a manufacturer help with the study?NO
Type of studyanimal study
“Not stated” does not mean nobody paid — the database does not always record it.
Peat-mud extract reduced the expression of inflammatory mediators in skin cells, and both tested preparations improved selected measures of cell protection.
Aim of the study: Thermal waters and peloid-derived products have long been used in dermatological and spa treatments, although the cellular mechanisms underlying their biological effects remain incompletely characterized. This study investigated the effects of Saturnia spa water (TW) and an aqueous mud extract (MUD) on inflammatory, redox, and wound-healing responses in human skin cell models.
Results: MUD and TW showed no marked cytotoxic effects at concentrations up to 5% in either cell model, whereas the undiluted preparations affected cell viability. In TNF-α-stimulated NHDF cells, both MUD and TW significantly reduced IL-1β and IL-6 gene expression (p < 0.001), whereas MUD significantly reduced the secretion of both cytokines. Both treatments also enhanced HO-1 expression and restored the TNF-α-induced reduction in SOD activity, whereas total ROS and GSH levels were not significantly altered. In HaCaT cells, TNF-α approximately doubled ROS levels (p < 0.001), whereas both MUD and TW significantly reduced ROS production (p < 0.01). TNF-α also reduced SOD activity by approximately 50% (p < 0.001), an effect that was restored by both treatments. GSH levels remained unchanged. In the scratch assay, both extracts significantly promoted wound closure at 6 h in NHDF cells (p = 0.002) and in HaCaT cells (MUD p = 0.017 and TW p = 0.027).
Money for the studynot stated · CRUI-CARE, Università degli Studi G. d'Annunzio Chieti - Pescara
Do the authors have ties to companies?no — the authors say so
Did a manufacturer help with the study?NO
Type of studylaboratory study (on cells)
“Not stated” does not mean nobody paid — the database does not always record it.
In rats, peat-mud extract alleviated postoperative inflammation of the uterine adnexa and limited adverse changes in the ovaries.
Aim of the study: A course of ultraphonophoresis of the extract of high-polar lipids of sulfide mud attenuated inflammation of uterine appendages in rats caused by catgut suturing of the ovaries and oviducts. On postoperative day 75-120 peloid therapy resulted in degradation of the suture material and its replacement with connective tissue.
Results: A course of ultraphonophoresis of the extract of high-polar lipids of sulfide mud attenuated inflammation of uterine appendages in rats caused by catgut suturing of the ovaries and oviducts. On postoperative day 75-120 peloid therapy resulted in degradation of the suture material and its replacement with connective tissue. The peloid limited postoperative intensification of follicular atresia, raised content of growing follicles and yellow bodies in the ovaries.
Money for the studynot stated
Do the authors have ties to companies?not stated
Did a manufacturer help with the study?unknown
Type of studyanimal study
“Not stated” does not mean nobody paid — the database does not always record it.
Peat muds containing microalgae are used for musculoskeletal and skin conditions, and research points to their cosmetic and skin-care potential.
Aim of the study: Peloids have been used for therapeutic purposes since time immemorial, mainly in the treatment of locomotor system pathologies and dermatology. Their effects are attributed to their components, i.e., to the properties and action of mineral waters, clays, and their biological fraction, which may be made up of microalgae, cyanobacteria, and other organisms present in water and clays.
Results: Their effects are attributed to their components, i.e., to the properties and action of mineral waters, clays, and their biological fraction, which may be made up of microalgae, cyanobacteria, and other organisms present in water and clays. There are many studies on the therapeutic use of peloids made with microalgae/cyanobacteria, but very little research has been done on dermocosmetic applications. Such research demonstrates their potential as soothing, regenerating, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agents. In this work, a method for the manufacture of a dermocosmetic peloid is presented based on the experience of the authors and existing publications, with indications for its characterization and study of its efficacy.
Money for the studynot stated
Do the authors have ties to companies?no — the authors say so
Did a manufacturer help with the study?NO
Type of studyanimal study
“Not stated” does not mean nobody paid — the database does not always record it.
Peat mud from the San Giovanni spring was identified as potentially useful in treating dermatological diseases.
Aim of the study: The authors describe the most important chemical-physical characteristics of the slime of the Terme San Giovanni in Elba Island, both with reference to the inorganic component, and especially to the organic one. The latter principally comes from the presence in the extraction basin of green algae of Caulerpa genus and of two sea plants, Zoostera marina and Posidonia oceanica.
Results: The authors describe the most important chemical-physical characteristics of the slime of the Terme San Giovanni in Elba Island, both with reference to the inorganic component, and especially to the organic one. The latter principally comes from the presence in the extraction basin of green algae of Caulerpa genus and of two sea plants, Zoostera marina and Posidonia oceanica. The presence of sulphur, in the organic components of slime, and of iron, in the inorganic one, provide the peloid peculiar properties which are very interesting in the treatment of dermatological diseases.
Money for the studynot stated
Do the authors have ties to companies?not stated
Did a manufacturer help with the study?unknown
Type of studyother
“Not stated” does not mean nobody paid — the database does not always record it.
Perspectives and opinion materials
The content below presents the authors’ opinions, interpretations and hypotheses. It is not treated as equal to scientific studies and systematic reviews.
Orthomolecular Medicine News Service Opinion material
„[17] This often-overlooked issue may be a common reason why some therapies just don't seem to work for some people. 13. An unusual item that makes a difference for some, including me, is A2 milk, which is milk from cows that don't make the A1 form of the casein protein and only make the A2 form. Who would have thought that this could be a way to prevent a source of gastro unhappiness. A YouTube presentation by John Whitcomb explains the science and is worth contemplation. [18] This article focuses on well-known simple vitamins, and basic minerals.”[17] This often-overlooked issue may be a common reason why some therapies just don't seem to work for some people. 13. An unusual item that makes a difference for some, including me, is A2 milk, which is milk from cows that don't make the A1 form of the casein protein and only make the A2 form. Who would have thought that this could be a way to prevent a source of gastro unhappiness. A YouTube presentation by John Whitcomb explains the science and is worth contemplation. [18] This article focuses on well-known simple vitamins, and basic minerals.
Orthomolecular Medicine News Service Opinion material
„He recommends that if you have a family member with sepsis in a hospital and want him/her to receive high dose nutrients and plant extracts for which there is evidence of safety and efficacy, you should demand it and "if you are denied this option, make sure the physician understands that immediate legal action to initiate the therapy will ensue, and that the death of your loved one will assure the initiation of a malpractice suit against him/her." [51] Of course, some medical professionals will argue that the studies are "not large enough" or that "more studies are needed to quantify the effectiveness" etc.”He recommends that if you have a family member with sepsis in a hospital and want him/her to receive high dose nutrients and plant extracts for which there is evidence of safety and efficacy, you should demand it and "if you are denied this option, make sure the physician understands that immediate legal action to initiate the therapy will ensue, and that the death of your loved one will assure the initiation of a malpractice suit against him/her." [51] Of course, some medical professionals will argue that the studies are "not large enough" or that "more studies are needed to quantify the effectiveness" etc.
Orthomolecular Medicine News Service Opinion material
„(2019) Bioavailability of Sulforaphane Following Ingestion of Glucoraphanin-Rich Broccoli Sprout and Seed Extracts with Active Myrosinase: A Pilot Study of the Effects of Proton Pump Inhibitor Administration. Nutrients. 11(7). pii: E1489. 20. Yagishita Y, Fahey JW, Dinkova-Kostova AT, Kensler TW. (2019) Broccoli or Sulforaphane: Is It the Source or Dose That Matters? Molecules. 24(19). pii: E3593. Nutritional Medicine is Orthomolecular Medicine Orthomolecular medicine uses safe, effective nutritional therapy to fight illness. Editorial Review Board: Ilyès Baghli, M.D. (Algeria) Ian Brighthope, MBBS, FACNEM (Australia) Prof.”(2019) Bioavailability of Sulforaphane Following Ingestion of Glucoraphanin-Rich Broccoli Sprout and Seed Extracts with Active Myrosinase: A Pilot Study of the Effects of Proton Pump Inhibitor Administration. Nutrients. 11(7). pii: E1489. 20. Yagishita Y, Fahey JW, Dinkova-Kostova AT, Kensler TW. (2019) Broccoli or Sulforaphane: Is It the Source or Dose That Matters? Molecules. 24(19). pii: E3593. Nutritional Medicine is Orthomolecular Medicine Orthomolecular medicine uses safe, effective nutritional therapy to fight illness. Editorial Review Board: Ilyès Baghli, M.D. (Algeria) Ian Brighthope, MBBS, FACNEM (Australia) Prof.
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