Explanations by Spring Quality

Hot spring for sterilization / Cholesterol suppression by drinking

"Iodine containing springs" is the name of a spring quality that was introduced with the 2014 revision of the "Mineral Spring Analysis Method Guidelines". Hot spring water contains more than 10 mg of iodide ions （I^-）in 1 kg of hot spring water. In simple terms, it is a hot spring that contains the components of a gargle (like isodine) or tincture of iodine (a medicine for wounds).
In many cases, seawater is the source of the hot springs, which are often associated with “Sodium Chloride springs” (especially “Sodium–Chloride strong saline springs”).
In addition, these springs tend to contain high levels of Metaboric acid (which is highly effective in disinfecting bacteria). In other words, the triple effect of Chloride springs + Iodine + Metaboric Acid, which prevents the growth of bacteria, makes it a “Hot springs for sterilizing”. However, there are general indications for bathing, of course, but the indications by spring quality are not listed, which is unclear as well.
But drinking it has an effect on “Hypercholesterolemia”. Iodine is a major component of thyroid hormones in the body, which stimulates metabolism, activates the function of internal organs, has a positive effect on skin quality and hair, and lowers cholesterol in the blood. For this reason, the “Iodine containing spring” is also known as “Hot spring for improving body constitution”.
There is a risk of inducing thyroid enlargement if taken in excess. Particular attention should be paid to hyperthyroidism, which may induce excessive metabolism and severe heart palpitations. Iodine softens and revives the walls of blood vessels and is also effective against arthritis and rheumatic diseases. In Europe, this type of spring is widely used for drinking, inhalation, and eye washing, in addition to bathing. In Germany, it is customary not only to gargle but also to wash one's eyes with “Iodine containing spring water”. As mentioned above, the “Iodine containing springs” often play a supporting role and are frequently associated with the “strong saline springs” that plays the main role, so those with high blood pressure should be careful about the amount of water they drink from the spring.

• ■Color of water・・・Dark reddish brown color reminiscent of iodine solution
• ■Taste & Smell・・・Medicinal taste reminiscent of iodine solution, medicinal smell like a science laboratory
• ■Water texture・・・When combined with “Sodium–Chloride strong saline springs”, feeling of sliminess & stickiness
• ■Major hot spring inns・・・Toyotomi Onsen, Hokkaido／Bansei Onsen, Hokkaido／"Syohoen" Kowakubi Onsen, Akita prefecture／