Heliotherapy is
a method of sun exposure for various therapeutic purposes. At the beginning of
the 20th century, before the appearance of antibiotics, the use of the sun as a
therapy to combat illnesses was widespread. One of the physicians who popularized
heliotherapy was Auguste Rollier.
1.
Progressive Exposure Technique
The sunbathing technique of his Swiss clinic consisted of exposing the patient to the sun for eight days, between 5 and 40 minutes a day.
- The first day: sunbathing for 5 minutes on the feet and ankles.
- The second day: the feet and ankles were exposed for 10 minutes and the knees for another 5 minutes.
- The following days: legs, abdomen and thorax were added up to a maximum of 40 minutes on feet and ankles, 35 minutes on knees, 30 on legs, 25 on abdomen and 20 on thorax.
- After the adaptation: the whole naked body was sunbathed daily for half an hour, except head and neck.
2.
Health Benefits
The therapeutic
action of the sun can be used to treat various diseases and ailments.
Skin
Conditions
The skin is one
of the organs of the body that best expresses photoaging, but a correct use of
sunlight also brings great benefits.
In psoriasis it
has proven to be one of the most effective treatments and in countries such as
Sweden sunbathing is prescribed before medication.
Disorders
of Nervous Origin
Sunlight is
essential for the regulation of neurotransmitters and is a potent
antidepressant.
Sunbathing is
indicated to recover from physical and psychological asthenia. It is one of the
greatest tonics, although its excess can cause greater fatigue.
Rheumatic
Diseases
In rheumatic
problems, both in osteoarthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or degenerative
processes due to decalcification, sunbathing is beneficial.
Thyroid
and Alteration of The Menstrual Cycle
Light regulates
the secretions of the pineal gland and modulates all hormonal rhythms. It is
useful in diseases of the thyroid gland and in some menstrual disorders.
3.
Nutrients for Better Protection
The consumption
of ripe fruits and vegetables can help prevent the harmful effects of the sun.
Beta-Carotene
They are
precursors of provitamin A, with antioxidant power. They are involved in the
restructuring of the skin and help to produce melanin. They also favor the good
condition of the skin and mucous membranes.
They are found
in carrots, mangoes, papayas, peaches and apricots, and also in spinach,
cabbage, tomatoes and sweet potatoes.
Vitamin
C
As an
antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals derived from sun exposure and helps
repair damage caused by sunburn. Foods rich in this vitamin help regenerate
collagen, which provides flexibility to the skin.
It is found in
oranges, lemons, grapefruit, currants, kiwis, strawberries, green leafy
vegetables (especially raw), peppers and tomatoes.
Vitamin
E
Another
powerful antioxidant against free radicals. It is found in unroasted nuts,
virgin olive oil, avocado, whole grains, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds.
Group
B Vitamins
Essential for skin health. They are present in whole grains, nuts, green leafy vegetables, fish and lean meats.