Sweating as medicine? The health benefits of the sauna are piling up.

Once primarily seen as a relaxation ritual, the sauna is increasingly gaining recognition as a serious health booster. Not only for your muscles, but also for your heart, brain, and lungs. Recent research on the traditional Finnish sauna—with temperatures ranging from 80 to 100 degrees Celsius—shows that regular sweating may be one of the most pleasant ways to stay healthy longer.

The physical effects of a sauna session are comparable to those of an average workout : your heart rate can increase to around 150 beats per minute, your blood vessels dilate, and your body loses a significant amount of fluid through sweat. But it does more than just open your pores.

Studies show that going to the sauna two to three times a week lowers blood pressure, reduces inflammation, and improves cholesterol. Those who go more often (four to seven times a week) even reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and sudden cardiac death by almost half.

A long-term study of over 2,300 Finnish men found that frequent sauna users had a 66 percent lower risk of dementia or Alzheimer's. The explanation? Risk factors such as high blood pressure, inflammation, and poor circulation likely play a role in prevention. But the feeling of relaxation, social contact , and the ability to escape daily stress also contribute.

It's not just the heart that benefits from a sauna visit. Regular sauna use also appears to reduce the number of colds and lung infections. In older studies, the number of flu cases among sauna users was even halved. People with asthma or COPD report fewer symptoms after a session in the heat. The heat dilates the airways, reduces mucus production, and makes breathing easier.

Do you suffer from muscle or joint pain? Then a sauna visit is definitely worth a try. Many people with conditions like rheumatism, osteoarthritis, or fibromyalgia report feeling less pain after a sauna visit. The heat has a relaxing effect on muscles and stimulates the release of endorphins: your body's own painkillers. Saunas have even been shown to be effective for chronic tension headaches.

Although saunas are generally safe, people with heart problems or serious heart conditions should consult their doctor first. Most risks arise when combined with alcohol, excessively long sessions, or jumping directly into cold water. The latter, in particular, can trigger heart rhythm disturbances in susceptible individuals.

Going to the sauna a few times a week isn't just enjoyable; it might just be one of the most underrated health habits. From improved blood pressure to fewer colds and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, the benefits are diverse and promising. And all without a gym membership or complicated diet. Just a towel, a hot room, and a generous dose of relaxation.