Sports and Wellness
Peat for beauty and wellness
Carla Tinagli - 23/12/2015
Peat

Peat has been used in cosmetics for years because it contains acidic substances, which the skin can absorb and use to increase cell metabolism.  It’s an organic mud that evolves from the transformation of vegetative material over the course of thousand years and has a higher concentration of active ingredients than any other natural source. Its dark colour derives from the mix of plants and herbs in it, which soak together in humid environments.

Extremely rich in mineral salts, vitamins, enzymes, and trace elements, peat is a cure-all for the skin due to its antiseptic, smoothing and healing properties. Because of this, many thermal spas and wellness centres have introduced it into their beauty programs. "It is also good for the joints and vascular system", says Alessandro Formenti, a qualified spa professional and phytotherapist.  “And there’s more. Unlike normal mud, which often requires heating, peat can be used at room temperature or cold. In this way, it can be recommended for use even in cases of acute inflammation".

 

Peat is also used in anti-cellulite treatments. It reduces water retention, improves low blood circulation, and has a diuretic effect.  It can be employed for whole body treatments (in this case dissolved in a bath for soaking) or applied directly as a zone-specific poultice (for the spine, shoulders, knees, and legs).

A peat compress, given its relaxing properties, is also effective on muscles. Mixed with seawater rich in salt, bromides, and iodine, it becomes a key ingredient in relieving rheumatic and dermatological problems.  It can also be used on the scalp due to its absorptive and purifying properties.

Carla Tinagli
Journalist, she's been dealing with wellness, beauty and lifestyle for years. She collaborates with many newspapers and is always in pursuit of beautiful things and something that inspires you wellbeing.