The resort of Karlovy Vary has long been famous for its mineral hot springs, which have many beneficial qualities. They are mainly intended for drinking therapy.
The springs in Karlovy Vary are a whole natural complex that transforms atmospheric precipitation into healing waters. They contain many microelements and other useful substances, which together have a beneficial effect on the body.
The use of thermal mineral drinks is completely free. There are 15 healing springs in total. Only 1 to 12 springs in Karlovy Vary are used in the spa industry. They are similar in their chemical composition, differing only in temperature and the amount of carbon dioxide.
What sources are there
Many are interested in what are the sources of Karlovy Vary and which one heals, as there are certain indications and contraindications for the use of healing water. People have known about the healing effect of springs since ancient times. The very first mention of treatment with healing water dates back to XIVcentury, since at that time Charles IV treated his feet with mineral water. After some time, it began to be used internally.
The characteristics of the mineral springs in Karlovy Vary make it possible to use water for patients with various diseases. The most popular are such as:
- "Vrzhidlo";
- "Prince Vratslav";
- "Libuse";
- "Mermaid";
- "Rocky";
- "Mlynsky";
- "Castle";
- "Freedom";
- "Market";
- "Snake";
- Garden
- "Charles IV".
Each of the sources is designed to treat certain diseases, but it is worth remembering that water should be taken carefully after consulting a doctor and diagnosing.
Geyser colonnade
Among the springs in Karlovy Vary, the "Geyser Colonnade" is distinguished. It hides only one source under water - the Geyser. This is one of the most famous sources. Its temperature is 72 degrees, and the height of the fountain reaches 12 meters. Water is mainly prescribed for bathing.
Geyser outlets have been known since ancient times. This healing water protruded from the depths of the earth. Initially, it flowed along with river water. Natural outlets were constantly overgrown with s alt sediment. Only the founding of the city and the need to use the sources served to capture the water of the Geyser.
Eco-friendly water from this spring in Karlovy Vary is used for drinking and bathing. The colonnade contains 5 tanks with water coming to the surface, access towhich is open to everyone from 6 am to 7 pm.
Castle Tower
One of the thermal springs of Karlovy Vary is the colonnade on the Castle Hill, which was built according to the project of the architect Oman. It consists of an Upper and a Lower source. Inside the Lower is a bas-relief made of ferruginous sandstone depicting the Spirit of the Springs.
The colonnade has been operating since the beginning of the 20th century, and in the 21st century it was restored by private investors, and it became available only to patients of the hospital located on the territory. However, the water of this source is available to every person. This water source in Karlovy Vary is located in a gazebo next to the colonnade.
The first information about it appeared in 1769, but it was formed in these places much earlier. In the place of its exit, the children made a small pool and bathed in warm water. It was also drunk by cows returning home from pastures. Already at this time, the source interested the doctors of this resort. He had 3 wells drilled, one of which reaches a depth of 31 meters.
The Upper Castle Spring is permanently closed. It is made artificially, as the water comes from the Lower Spring. As a result, it cools down and at the same time the solubility of carbon monoxide increases.
Market Colonnade
The mineral spring in Karlovy Vary called "Market" was equipped just a few years ago. The wooden Market Colonnade is decorated with snow-white patterns. Under its roof there are 2 sources, namely"Market" and "Charles IV". According to legend, it was from them that the birth of the city began.
The "market" thermal spring in Karlovy Vary was discovered in the 19th century. The water in it has a temperature of 62 degrees. The colonnade under a gable roof is surrounded by wooden walls on 3 sides, and the front wall looks like a column. From time immemorial, large and small springs have been beaten here, which then disappeared, then reappeared. Since the exit from the source was at a depth of 2 meters, it was necessary to go down to it by steps. More recently, the colonnade has been restored, and now the water rises to its level.
Many tourists are wondering which spring in Karlovy Vary is the oldest and most famous. It bears the name of Charles IV and is associated with an old legend. According to her, the emperor of the Roman Empire washed his feet in this source, after which he decided to open a resort on this place. Above it is even a carved painting depicting its discovery.
Mill Colonnade
The Mill Colonnade is one of the most famous in the city and there are as many as 5 springs in it, namely:
- "Mlynsky"
- "Mermaid";
- "Prince Wenceslas I";
- "Libushi";
- "Rock".
The roof of the colonnade is supported by columns that are very beautifully decorated. The top balustrade depicts 12 months. The temperature of the source "Mlynsky" is 56 degrees. It is believed that the water from it does not lose its healing qualities during transportation. Part of it is sold in bottles in many countries of the world.
The temperature in the Mermaid spring is 60 degrees. His water used to be very popular. The source "Prince Vaclav I" has a temperature of 65-68 degrees. Water has long been used to make medicinal mineral s alt.
The Libushi spring was formed from 4 small springs, and its temperature is 62 degrees.
Garden Colonnade
The garden colonnade was built at the end of the 19th century according to the design of Viennese architects. This amazing architectural monument adorns not only the nearby Dvorak Gardens, but the entire resort area. Directly under the roof of the colonnade there are 3 healing springs, namely:
- "Garden";
- "Freedom";
- "Snake".
The temperature of the source "Freedom" is 60 degrees. It was opened during the construction of the hospital. It is located in the gazebo, which belongs to historical sites. Spring "Garden" has a temperature of 47 degrees. Initially, it was called "Imperial". It is located on the basement floor of the Military Sanatorium.
Spring "Snake" has a water temperature of 30 degrees. It contains a lot less minerals, but it has a lot more carbon dioxide. Mineral water flows out of the snake's mouth right in the Garden Colonnade. These are the most important springs in Karlovy Vary for bathing and drinking water, which help to improve your he alth.
Which source of what heals
Be sure to know which spring in Karlovy Vary treats what and what is used for healingwater. This is required in order not to harm he alth. The geyser hot spring "Vrzhidlo" is mainly intended for bathing. In addition, water is used for drinking therapy and has a very good effect on the functioning of the intestines and stomach, and also helps in the treatment of gastritis. For people prone to respiratory diseases, it is useful to breathe the air near the geyser.
The "Charles VI" spring is distinguished by the unique healing properties of the hot spring. Water from it has a good effect on the joints and the skeletal system. The source "Lower Zamkovy" is characterized by the fact that its water is used to treat diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Upper Zamkovy spring is available only to guests of Zamkovy Lazne. Rinsing the gums with this water has a very good effect on periodontal disease, prevents the formation of caries, and also helps to strengthen and restore bones and joints.
The Rynochny spring is intended for the treatment of pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. Today, its water is actively used in sanatoriums. The Melnichny spring is famous for its thermal water. Many say that this is a female beauty drink. It has a beneficial effect on hair and nails, nourishing and strengthening them. Previously, this water was used only for baths.
The Mermaid spring is characterized by the fact that its water has a temperature of 60 degrees. It is considered a children's he alth drink. It can be used to improve metabolism and strengthen the body's immune system. The water of the spring "Prince Valcaw I" is enriched with Glauber'ss alt, which is why it has some laxative effect. It is recommended to use it for cleansing the body and preferably before a spa treatment.
The Libushi spring is used to treat children, improve metabolic processes, and normalize immunity. The water of the spring "Rock" is used for the treatment of diabetes, and its consumption is very effective in the process of losing weight.
Source "Sloboda" is famous for its amazing healing drink, as it helps regulate the production of male hormones, has a positive effect on potency and helps in the treatment of prostatitis. The water of the Sadovy spring is used in the treatment of diseases of the liver, kidneys, helps to remove stones and restore the body after an illness.
Spring "Snake" is one of the coldest. This is a real treasure trove of beauty. It is not intended to be taken internally, but to wash and help rejuvenate the skin.
Indications for treatment
Springs Karlovy Vary indications for treatment are quite extensive. The complexes of procedures in all sanatoriums are different, which is explained by the level of equipment of medical institutions. Among the main indications, it is necessary to highlight such as:
- recovery after oncology treatment without signs of malignant process activity;
- diseases of the cardiovascular system;
- pathology of the digestive system;
- metabolic disorder;
- gynecological diseases;
- dental problems;
- neurological disorders.
In addition, the water of the springs is used to treat respiratory diseases and pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. Based on the results of the examination, the doctor selects for each patient his own treatment program, which fully takes into account the state of he alth and the diagnosis.
Contraindications for treatment
It is worth noting that there are certain contraindications for treatment with the help of thermal spring water, which should include such as:
- malignant neoplasms;
- intestinal stenoses;
- increased creatine levels;
- epilepsy;
- liver failure;
- exacerbation of pancreatitis;
- tuberculosis;
- pregnancy.
It is worth noting that treatment with mineral water is prescribed only by a doctor after a diagnosis. Self-therapy is strictly prohibited, as this can provoke various kinds of complications.
Treatment in Karlovy Vary
Many of those who come to this country for treatment are interested in what are the best sources to choose in Karlovy Vary and where it is preferable to take a course of recovery. You can be treated not only as directed by a doctor.
If there is no appointment, then you can get it by contacting a doctor in any chosen sanatorium, and it is best to do this where you plan to undergo therapy. It should be noted that the treatment is carried out in courses, the minimumthe duration of which is 1 week.
Recovery
Each spring in Karlovy Vary is unique, but in any case, each of them helps to improve your he alth. Some of the procedures carried out in sanatoriums require a doctor's consultation, and for some it is not required. In particular, procedures such as:
- spa treatments;
- massage;
- drinking mineral water;
- s alt caves;
- inhalations.
Special attention is paid to spa treatments, which include a range of services that contribute to recovery.
Composition of thermal water
The purpose of the springs in Karlovy Vary is different, as they can be used to treat diseases and improve your he alth. In addition, the water of some of them is intended for drinking, and some - only for bathing. In Karlovy Vary, mineralized water comes to the surface. To get a more complete picture, it is worth noting that its maximum temperature is 73.4 degrees.
The composition of water includes ions, anions, cations, boric and silicic acid, gases. She is not radioactive. The springs are characterized by the fact that the water in them is natural, with a high content of fluorides.
How to properly consume medicinal water
It is recommended to drink water as prescribed by a doctor, who will write down what kind to consume, how much and how to do it correctly. You can do this without consulting a specialist, but in small quantities. A sharp change in the amount of minerals in the bodycan provoke exactly the opposite effect.
It is best to take some water in a container and drink it in small sips while walking. The optimum temperature is considered to be 50 degrees. It is worth remembering that the hotter the water in the source, the less it can be consumed. Do not collect water in a plastic bottle, you can only use special dishes.
At the first morning intake, you need to collect liquid from the source at 5-6 o'clock in the morning, since at this time it is more saturated with useful geyser gases. The course of therapy is not recommended to be combined with the consumption of alcoholic beverages and smoking. Passive smoke inhalation is also harmful. Treatment must be carried out in a state of rest and relaxation.
Treatment reviews
Karlovy Vary is one of the most famous spas in the Czech Republic. Its thermal springs have simply unique healing power, help to fill the body with energy and get rid of many diseases. Reviews of tourists about visiting this resort and drinking healing water are very good. Patients of sanatoriums are especially distinguished by bathing in an open thermal pool.
However, some say that the water tastes unusually warm and bitter-s alty. If you drink it without a doctor's recommendation in large quantities, it can provoke indigestion.