Sauna is a form of passive heat therapy characterized by exposure to high ambient temperatures for short periods of time. It’s most heavily studied for its effects on the cardiorespiratory system, for which it can produce a number of benefits (many that are similar to exercise). The design and practices of saunas can vary considerably, which makes it difficult to directly compare studies on them.
Sauna is most often used for
Last Updated:November 14, 2023
A sauna is a form of passive heat therapy in which people sit in small, high-temperature rooms that typically range from 90°C to 100°C for short periods of time. The traditional Finnish sauna involves specific practices such as wooden rooms, cooling-off periods, and regular use 2 to 3 times per week.
Sauna use has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and significantly reduce the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality over time. Additionally, it may benefit various conditions such as heart failure, dementia, respiratory diseases, and mental health disorders, although more high-quality human trials are needed to confirm these effects.
Sauna use is generally safe for people with stable cardiovascular conditions, but those with unstable or unmanaged cardiovascular issues should avoid it due to potential risks. Additionally, concurrent alcohol use can increase the risk of injury and lower blood pressure, and pregnant individuals should be cautious despite its widespread use in Finland during pregnancy.
Sauna works by applying heat to the body, which benefits various systems (such as the cardiorespiratory and musculoskeletal systems), reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, and promotes cellular repair through mild stress. Additionally, sauna provides relaxation and has cultural significance, which contribute to overall health.
A handful of additions and modifications
We added one new meta-analysis to the sauna database. Additionally, we adjusted our language about heart failure class, and how it factors into an overall impression of heart failure severity. Finally, we added more mention of fluid loss, and how that could affect many of the cardiovascular outcomes measured in sauna studies.
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