What does peat help with? Discover its properties!

Peat has long held an important place in natural body therapy – associated with health resorts and sanatoriums, it is increasingly finding its way into SPA zones. Wondering what peat helps with and in what form it is best used? This article will explain how peat works, who it can help, and when it is worth opting for a treatment.

What is peat?

Peat is a type of medicinal peat formed as a result of prolonged decomposition of marsh plants in a moist and anaerobic environment. It is thanks to this long maturation that this natural substance contains a range of valuable ingredients used in medicine and rehabilitation – primarily at health resorts, sanatoriums, and hotel SPA zones.

Peat contains, among other things, humic acids (humus acids), lignins, bitumens, microelements, and mineral salts. These substances have anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, and regenerative properties and improve blood flow and tissue metabolism. Peat is applied locally – on the skin – or in the form of baths, allowing systemic effects.

What does peat help with? Medicinal properties of peat

Treatments using peat are a proven form of support in the therapy of many ailments – from joint problems, through injuries, to skin conditions. Medicinal peat has anti-inflammatory, warming, regenerative, and detoxifying effects, making it useful in various areas of physiotherapy and cosmetology.

The most common indications for using peat include:

• musculoskeletal diseases – peat can alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, back pain, or sciatica;
• post-injury complaints – used after bone, joint, and soft tissue injuries, it can reduce swelling, support the absorption of hematomas, and accelerate regeneration;
• circulatory disorders – peat may help in chronic ischemia of the lower limbs, improve blood circulation, and support blood supply;
• dermatological problems – peat soothes and regenerates irritated skin, so it is used as a supportive treatment for psoriasis, eczema, and other skin changes;
• cosmetic use – peat firms the skin, improves its condition, and supports the fight against cellulite, which is why it is often used in cosmetic treatments. Additionally, it has cleansing, detoxifying, astringent effects and supports the regeneration of the epidermis and damaged tissues.

How can peat be used?

Peat treatments can be conducted in various ways – depending on the body's needs and therapy goals. Each form has slightly different effects, but all support regenerative processes, improve circulation, and help relieve pain.

Peat wraps

Made from plastified peat heated to about 40°C. The warm mass is applied directly to the body, then covered with foil and a blanket. The treatment usually lasts about 15-20 minutes and has relaxing, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory effects. It helps with spinal disorders, joint pain, or rheumatoid disease. Peat wraps are available as part of stay packages with treatments by the sea at Hotel Lambert.

Peat baths

This is a systemic form involving immersion of the body in water with added crushed peat. Peat baths have a warming effect, improve circulation, and relieve muscle tension. Such a bath should not exceed 25 minutes. Rest after the treatment is recommended – preferably lying down.

Peat massage

This combines manual action with peat properties. Warmed peat is applied to the body, followed by a gentle massage stimulating circulation and supporting the regeneration of the epidermis and deeper tissues. The treatment is recommended for muscle inflammation, bone and joint disorders, and as a skincare ritual. Both peat massage and peat wraps are available in the SPA treatment menu at Hotel Lambert.

Peat patches for home use

A convenient alternative to wraps – available in pharmacies and medical stores. They are applied to the selected area on the body, ensuring not to exceed 60°C. They can be used, for example, in local muscle or joint pain therapy.

How to prepare for a peat treatment?

A treatment with peat can bring many benefits, but it's worth preparing properly – especially if it's your first visit. Start by talking with a specialist – if you have chronic diseases, circulatory problems, hypertension, or other health contraindications, consult a doctor or physiotherapist before the treatment. In SPA zones, this qualification often takes place on site, but the staff should be informed in advance of any ailments.

On the treatment day, opt for a light meal – do not come on an empty stomach, but also avoid heavy dishes. Refrain from intense physical activity, and hydrate well before the treatment – this supports body detoxification. Also, wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing – most peat treatments are done in disposable underwear provided by the clinic or partial covering.

After the treatment, plan some rest. The body needs time to benefit from peat's effects – it is best to lie down in the relaxation area, drink water or herbal tea, and allow yourself a moment for true body regeneration.

What are the indications for peat treatments?

Peat use includes therapeutic, healing, and care purposes. Although peat is mainly associated with treating musculoskeletal disorders, its medicinal properties mean the list of indications is much broader. Depending on the form, peat can help relieve pain, support tissue healing, improve circulation, or regenerate the skin. The most common general indications for peat treatments include:

• degenerative and rheumatic joint diseases,
• chronic back and muscle pain,
• post-injury states – dislocations, sprains, bruises,
• peripheral circulation disorders,
• dermatological issues (psoriasis, eczema, cellulite),
• muscle tension and chronic fatigue.

Different treatment forms may also have specific uses:

• peat wraps – best for local therapy, especially in inflammatory joint conditions, muscle pains, and post-injury states. They work intensely, warming tissues and accelerating their regeneration;
• peat baths – have systemic effects, recommended for general weakness, circulation disorders, or chronic tension. They help relax and support natural body detox processes;
• peat massage – a great option for muscle pain and overloads and as a skincare ritual. It supports microcirculation and improves skin condition, hence is also recommended for aesthetic issues like loss of firmness or cellulite.

Contraindications for peat use – when to avoid the treatment?

Although peat has many beneficial properties, not everyone can safely use it. Before booking a treatment, familiarize yourself with contraindications or consult a doctor – especially if you have chronic diseases or uncertainty about your current health. The most common contraindications for peat treatments include:

• circulatory failure, heart defects, and other cardiovascular diseases,
• respiratory failure,
• unstable blood pressure,
• varicose veins, thrombosis, and other blood clotting disorders,
• active and acute inflammation in the body,
• kidney diseases, hyperthyroidism,
• diabetes, anemia,
• pregnancy (especially in the first trimester).

Special caution should also be taken by people after thrombosis – peat treatments have warming and circulation stimulating effects, so it is better to avoid them during anticoagulant therapy or with fresh thrombotic changes.

Also not recommended are peat treatments during fever, viral and bacterial infections, or general body weakness. Always inform SPA staff or your physiotherapist about your health condition and medications.

Peat is natural support in relieving pain, tension, and inflammation. Its properties are used not only in treating musculoskeletal ailments but also in skincare. Wraps, baths, or peat massage are forms that can be adapted to your needs – however, it is important to precede them with consultation and prepare well for the treatment. If you are looking for regeneration by the sea, Hotel Lambert offers peat treatments both as part of stay packages and individual sessions in the SPA zone.