Balneo

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Balneo.

Natural medicine treatments ceramic set.

The project explores the possibilities of alternative ways of healing in modern world, based on European and ayurvedic water and temperature-based methods. Natural therapies have originated almost 10,000 years ago and has continued to evolve since then. Nowadays we tend to forget about them, in the first place reaching for synthetic pharmaceutical products that often cause side effects.

The set consist of four elements – a compress, a heating/cooling pad, an inhaler and a jala neti pot. Their goal is to support the body's natural defense mechanisms, helping to strengthen the immune system. They are made of natural stoneware with chamotte, which makes them resistant to high temperatures and water. The compress and heating/cooling pad are filled with salt, as a reference to traditional compresses, so that they keep the temperature for over 20 minutes. The objects, despite the hardness of ceramics, are soft to the touch and were designed to conform to our hands and body. Their appearance was inspired by naturally formed pebble stones.

Inhaler

The Inhaler was designed for performing herbal inhalations at home. It was made of chamotte stoneware, which makes it resistant to heat and water. The shape of the opening follows the shape of a face, directing the steam into the mouth and nose. Homemade inhalations are a safe and non-invasive method of treating cough, runny nose, and symptoms of a cold and a flu. Inhalations prepared from herbal infusions and essential oils have a bactericidal, anti-inflammatory and decongestant effect. Steam treatments accelerate the healing process while the inhaled steam moisturizes the mucosa, relaxes the bronchi and facilitates expectoration. The inhaler can also be used for aromatherapy.

Compress

A handy object made of chamotte stoneware. Compresses have been used for centuries in both modern and alternative medicine. As a reference to tradition, the compress has been filled with salt which makes it able to maintain the temperature for up to 15 minutes. Adapted to the shape of a hand and a forehead, the cooling compress has an anti-inflammatory properties (it reduces pain and swelling). It can also be used for injuries, bruises, headaches, toothaches, nosebleed and a fever. On the other hand – a warm compress will help treating the sinusitis, pharyngitis and otitis. In both versions – depending on user's preferences – it can be used as a relaxing tool.

Jala neti pot

Jala neti is an Ayurvedic method of cleansing a nose and sinuses, originating from ancient India. A lukewarm solution of salt and water with a concentration similar to that present in a human body fluids (0.9%) is used for this process. Nasal rinsing is used to maintain the hygiene of the upper respiratory tract and can prevent, permanently alleviate and effectively support the treatment of ailments and diseases in this area of the body. It supports and activates the functions of cilia on the mucosa, freeing them from excess mucus, accumulated pollutants and allergy-causing pollen. Jala neti is a great method of preventing colds and flu, as well as treating fever, headache, hay fever and allergies. It prevents infections, treats snoring and provides a relief.

Heating pad

The heating pad made of chamotte stoneware. Like the compress, it has been filled with salt, which prolongs its properties. It is intended for use on larger parts of the body. Thanks to its shape, it can be adjusted to any area of the body, as well as being put under the neck while lying down. The cold compress can be used for bruises, burns, and can accelerate muscle regeneration after exercising. Warm compress can dilate blood vessels, improve circulation, lower muscle tension and reduce pain. It can heal muscle and joints inflammation and soothe menstrual pain. It is also perfect for relaxation.