New Study Shows Hot Springs Might Actually Have Healing Properties

July 2, 2024

Hiking to hot springs is a time-honored tradition in the U.S. and beyond, and not just because soaking feels good after a long walk. Many hot springs enthusiasts also claim that the waters themselves have healing properties. The Romans were no different: They believed Bath’s springs, which are today cordoned off as a museum exhibit, could heal skin infections and other afflictions. And now, recent science shows that they might have actually been right.

Scientists from the University of Plymouth recently analyzed Bath’s spring-fed waters and discovered 15 different types of microorganisms with the potential to fight human pathogens. These microorganisms have natural antimicrobial properties that could be used to fight common bacterial ailments, including E. coli infections, staph infections, and others. Backpacker