The flu is an all-too-familiar ailment for us Finns – a runny nose, sore throat and congestion can paralyze everyday life for several days or weeks. Many people then wonder: would a sauna help ward off the flu? The traditional Finnish way is to head to a sauna, but is it really beneficial or can sauna bathing make the situation worse?
In this article, we will review research information, practical tips, and safety instructions for a sauna trip with the flu.
Does a sauna help with the flu?
Saunas do not cure the flu, as it is usually caused by a virus, which has no quick cure. However, saunas can temporarily relieve symptoms :
- The feeling of warmth can ease muscle pain and body aches.
- Steam and moist air can temporarily unclog a stuffy nose.
- Relaxation improves sleep quality and reduces stress, which supports the body's own resistance and recovery.
Several studies have found that regular sauna bathing can reduce the incidence of respiratory infections in the long term, but with an acute flu it's more about relieving symptoms. Of course, relieving symptoms and relaxing yourself also helps your immune system repair itself better.
When should you avoid the sauna?
Although a sauna can bring relief, it is not suitable for everyone during a cold . In these situations, it is better to skip the sauna:
- High fever: a hot sauna can strain the body and heart.
- Heart or respiratory diseases: heat stress may be too much.
- Severe weakness or dizziness: increases the risk of accidents. It is best to avoid the sauna.
The general rule is to listen to your body – if you feel worse in the sauna, it is not the right place to recover. Let your body rest and take a sauna break when you feel better.
Sauna tips for those with the flu
If you decide to go to the sauna during a mild cold, keep these things in mind:
- Keep the temperature moderate – avoid saunas that are too hot.
- Go for shorter periods – for example, 5–10 minutes of steaming at a time.
- Remember to stay hydrated – the flu and a hot sauna dehydrate the body.
- Listen to how you feel – if your heart rate increases too much or you feel worse, stop immediately.
Menthol refreshes and relieves stuffiness
In addition to sauna steam, people with a cold can get help from refreshing sauna products , such as menthol. The cooling and opening effect of menthol makes breathing easier and brings a fresh feeling to the respiratory tract. Sauna Menthol has received a huge amount of attention as a product.
Sauna Menthol is designed for just this: a small dose added to the sauna water fills the entire sauna with the refreshing scent of menthol. This can provide temporary relief from nasal congestion and make a sauna trip with a cold more pleasant.
Summary
Saunas do not cure the flu, but they can be a good way to effectively relieve symptoms, such as congestion and muscle aches. The most important thing is to listen to your body: if you feel unwell, you should avoid the sauna . However, light, short and moderately warm saunas can bring relief.
Adding menthol sauna scent to the sauna is a natural way to freshen your breath and make you feel more refreshed, even if you have a cold.