Take a look at our articles, where we discuss the following topics, among others:
What are menthol crystals?
How menthol as a 100% natural raw material brings a cooling and refreshing effect to the sauna. There are many names, for some it is sauna scent, sauna ice or menthol crystal.
The benefits of menthol in the sauna:
Read how menthol opens the airways and brings relief from the flu during a sauna.
The versatile use of menthol crystals:
Menthol is not limited to the sauna - read more about the use of menthol crystals in e.g. foot baths and steam breathing.
Sauna and well-being:
How saunas and Sauna Menthol products support comprehensive well-being and relaxation.
Whether you are a sauna lover, looking for relief from the flu or interested in well-being, our blog offers you plenty of useful information. Stay up to date with the latest tips and be inspired to bring more relaxation into your life!
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10 things you might not know about sauna bathing
For Finns, a sauna is much more than just a place to wash, relax or escape from everyday life. It is a part of our culture, history and everyday life, surrounded by countless stories, traditions and surprisingly special details. Although sauna bathing is a given for many of us, there is a lot about it that few people really know. Here are ten interesting and sometimes surprising facts about the sauna, its history and customs, which can deepen your own sauna experience. Check them out. 1. There are more saunas than cars in Finland It is estimated that there are over 3.3 million saunas in Finland. That means almost one sauna for every inhabitant. Many homes have their own sauna, but saunas can also be found in cottages, swimming pools, workplaces and even in the common areas of apartment buildings. Saunas can also be found on ships, hotels and public buildings. For comparison, there are around 2.8 million cars in Finland. This says a lot about how central a sauna is to the Finnish lifestyle. 2. The use of menthol in saunas is a relatively new phenomenon Although the Finnish sauna itself is an ancient tradition, the use of menthol saunas only began to become more common in the late 20th century. Originally, menthol was mainly used for medicinal purposes, for example in conjunction with steam inhalation to relieve congestion. Since then, the refreshing and cooling effect of menthol began to be associated with saunas, and menthol products became popular, especially in winter, when they open the airways and bring its characteristic refreshing note to the sauna. This is exactly what Sauna Menthol sauna ice, for example, offers. 3. The first saunas were smoke saunas without a chimney A smoke sauna is the most historically original form of sauna. In it, the stove is heated with wood without a chimney, and smoke fills the entire sauna. After heating, the fire is turned off and the smoke is vented out, after which sauna bathing begins. The soft and even heat of a smoke sauna, as well as the smell of smoke, create a unique atmosphere that a modern electric stove cannot fully imitate. The construction and use of a smoke sauna require special expertise, and in many places this tradition is still strong. The number of stones in a smoke sauna stove is also many times higher than in a traditional sauna, so heating alone takes several hours. 4. The sauna is not just a Finnish invention – but Finns made it a culture Although the sauna is strongly associated with Finland, other cultures also have long traditions of steam and baths. The Russians have banya, the Turks have hamam, and the Japanese have sento and onsen baths. What makes the Finnish sauna special is its place in everyday life and culture. In Finland, the sauna is not a luxury, but an essential part of everyday life and community. It has been a place for purification, births, deaths, and important discussions throughout history. 5. The word "Löyly" does not translate directly into any other language “Steam bath” means both hot steam and the spirit of the sauna. It is a word that has both concrete and symbolic meaning. Many languages do not have an exact equivalent for steam bath, and therefore the word is often used as such internationally. There is a lot of tacit knowledge involved in the quality of a steam bath: how much water is poured into the heater, and at what rhythm. A good steam bath is soft, moist and pleasant, and not burning hot. 6. A menthol sauna can ease flu symptoms The effect of menthol is based on its ability to stimulate cold receptors in the skin and mucous membranes, which gives a cool and refreshing feeling without an actual drop in temperature. When menthol, such as Sauna Menthol , is added to the sauna water, it evaporates with the hot steam and spreads evenly throughout the sauna. This can relieve respiratory congestion and throat irritation, and many people use menthol, especially in the winter during flu season. A menthol sauna is not a medicine, but it can bring relief and increase the relaxing effect of sauna bathing. 7. Sauna use burns calories and activates blood circulation Although sauna bathing is not a substitute for exercise, its effects on the body are real. The heat raises the body temperature and speeds up the heart rate. This increases blood circulation and can burn up to 300 calories per hour, depending on the temperature and the duration of the sauna. At the same time, the body sweats profusely, which helps eliminate fluid and can bring a feeling of lightness. Regular sauna bathing, combined with a healthy lifestyle, has been shown to support overall well-being. 8. The first public saunas served as birthing centers Before hospitals became common, the sauna was often the cleanest and warmest place in the village. That's why births took place there. The hot steam killed bacteria and kept the air clean, and the heated sauna provided a peaceful and safe environment for childbirth. The sauna was also a place where the sick were treated and the deceased were prepared for burial. Thus, the sauna was strongly associated with the cycle of life from beginning to end. 9. Sauna temperatures weren't always as high as they are today In smoke saunas, the temperature was often 50–70 degrees, and the soft steam was created by continuously throwing water on hot stones, which are exceptionally abundant in smoke saunas. After electric heaters became more common in the mid-20th century, sauna temperatures rose to 80–100 degrees in many places. This is not necessarily a better or worse way, but a different one. Many people find the softer heat of a traditional smoke sauna more pleasant than the dry heat of an electric sauna. 10. The world's largest sauna is found in Finland The world's largest sauna is located in Teuva and is officially in the Guinness Book of Records. The sauna can accommodate over 250 people at a time. This shows how strongly the sauna experience is communal in Finland. Large event saunas and communal sauna use are part of the culture, and they bring people together in the same way as small home saunas in the family circle. Summary A sauna is much more than just a "warm room" where you sweat. It is part of Finnish identity, tradition and well-being. The history and diversity of sauna bathing make it a phenomenon that is both everyday and exceptionally rich. The menthol sauna brings a modern twist to this tradition, combining the old sauna ritual with a fresh and invigorating effect. Whether you are a fan of a traditional smoke sauna or a user of a modern electric sauna, there is always something new and fascinating to learn about saunas.
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Where is menthol used and what is its history?
Menthol (also called menthol) is familiar to many Finns, especially from the fresh scent of the sauna, which opens the airways and creates a refreshing experience during the steam bath. But the use of menthol is not limited to the sauna — this natural raw material is very versatile and is widely used in cosmetics, food, the pharmaceutical industry and wellness products. In this article, we will take a look at the history of menthol and tell you where it is used today. The history of menthol: at the source of freshness Menthol has been used for centuries for its cooling, refreshing and invigorating effects. Menthol was first isolated from Japanese peppermint oil in the 18th century, and in the 19th century it began to be produced and used industrially on a larger scale in Europe. Originally, menthol was used primarily for medicinal purposes: to relieve respiratory symptoms, relieve pain and freshen breath. With the industrial revolution and the development of chemistry, menthol became an important ingredient in many different fields, and today it is produced both from natural sources and synthetically. Use of menthol in cosmetics and hygiene products One of the biggest uses of menthol is in cosmetics and personal care. Its cooling effect and fresh scent make it a popular ingredient in products such as: In shampoos and conditioners – menthol stimulates the scalp and provides a fresh feeling during washing. In skin care products – for example, gels and creams – menthol is used to cool and soothe the skin. In toothpastes and mouthwashes – menthol brings a feeling of cleanliness and coolness to the mouth, which is why it is used in almost all refreshing oral hygiene products. In deodorants and aftershaves – menthol's refreshing and cooling properties make it an effective and pleasant addition to products where a refreshing effect is needed. In cosmetics, menthol also surprisingly acts as a deodorizer and mild antiseptic, which increases its versatility. Menthol in foods and beverages Menthol is also widely used in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the production of peppermint and menthol flavors. Its fresh taste and cooling effect make it popular in, for example: In sweets and chewing gums In lozenges and throat lozenges In dental candy and refreshing drinks In ice creams and desserts where menthol is combined with chocolate, for example Menthol is safe in food use, and is used in very small concentrations to bring freshness and a recognizable taste. For example, the menthol crystals contained in Sauna Menthol are 100% natural menthol crystals, which can in principle be eaten. However, this is not recommended, but they are a completely natural product. The importance of menthol in pharmaceutical and wellness products The effects of menthol are not just about smell and taste — it also has physiological properties that are utilized in many medicines and wellness products: Products that open the airways, such as nasal sprays, cough lozenges, and steam inhalation products, utilize the cooling and refreshing effect of menthol. Pain gels and liniments applied to the skin often contain menthol, which causes a cooling sensation and can relieve muscle and joint pain. In massage and relaxation products, menthol has a refreshing and at the same time calming effect. Menthol's effect is based on the fact that it stimulates cold receptors in the skin and mucous membranes, which gives the brain a cool sensation — even though there is no actual drop in temperature. Menthol in the sauna – the perfect addition to steam baths In Finland, menthol is particularly familiar to us from sauna products. When menthol is added to the sauna water and the heater, it creates a fresh and respiratory-opening feeling that makes the sauna session even more invigorating. Menthol products, such as Sauna Menthol's sauna ice, are perfect for bringing a spa-style atmosphere to the sauna and effectively relieving, for example, congestion or flu symptoms. In the sauna, menthol evaporates with the steam water and spreads evenly throughout the sauna. Many people find a menthol sauna to be a particularly relaxing and cleansing experience – it refreshes the body and mind. Use of menthol in industry and other products Menthol's uses don't stop with consumer products. It's also used in: In tobacco and nicotine products (e.g. menthol cigarettes, snuff, nicotine pouches) to provide a cool taste — although menthol cigarettes are banned in the EU, menthol is still used in substitute products in some markets. In perfumery, because menthol's fresh scent often acts as a base or top note in perfumes. In the chemical industry and laboratory use in many flavoring and pharmaceutical components. Summary Menthol is much more than just a “fresh scent in the sauna”. It is a versatile and valued natural substance that is widely used in everything from cosmetics and food to medicines and sauna products. Its long history and versatile properties make it a highly sought-after raw material — and in Finnish saunas, its use is considered by many to be an essential part of a perfect sauna experience. We strongly recommend trying Sauna Menthol’s high-quality menthol crystals. This product, called sauna ice, will make your sauna a perfect sauna experience.
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Sauna use with the flu – does it make it better or worse?
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.
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How to choose the right sauna heater - ensure the perfect sauna experience
A Finnish sauna is much more than just a space – it is a place for well-being, relaxation and togetherness. Whether it is your own home sauna, an outdoor sauna at a cottage or a rented sauna space, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right sauna heater. The sauna heater determines the atmosphere of the sauna, the quality of the steam and even the entire enjoyment of sauna bathing. In this blog post, we will go through what you should consider when choosing a sauna heater for your home or cottage, and finally we will also tell you how sauna scents can complement the experience. When choosing the right sauna heater, it is also worth consulting a professional from your local hardware store. After all, they sell them for their job. Why is the heater the heart of the sauna? A sauna heater is not just a source of heat – it creates the steam that makes up the entire sauna experience. Sauna bathing is at its best when the temperature and humidity are in balance, and the size, power and structure of the sauna heater have a decisive influence on this. A well-chosen sauna heater ensures that your sauna evening is relaxed and that the sauna experience does not become stuffy or too dry. 1. Sauna size and volume The first thing to pay attention to is the size of the sauna room. The power of the heater should be in proportion to the volume of the sauna: Small sauna (2–6 m³) : a 3–6 kW electric heater or a light wood-burning heater is usually sufficient. Medium-sized sauna (6–12 m³) : a more powerful 6–9 kW electric heater or a larger wood-burning heater is needed. Large sauna or outdoor sauna (12–20 m³) : requires a 9–15 kW electric heater or a sturdy wood-burning heater. Remember to also consider the sauna's insulation and the amount of glass surfaces. For example, glass doors and large windows increase the need for heating, as they also allow cooler air to easily enter the sauna from above and below. 2. Electric stove or wood stove? Choosing between an electric or wood-burning stove is one of the biggest decisions. An electric heater is easy and quick, especially suitable for city homes and apartment building saunas. Its advantage is that it can be scheduled and provides even heat. A wood-burning stove brings the atmosphere of a traditional sauna and is often the choice for a cottage or outdoor sauna. It provides soft and natural steam, but requires a little more maintenance and heating time. 3. Number of stones and quality of saunas The number of stones in a sauna directly affects the sensation of the sauna. The more stones, the softer and more humid the sauna. A small sauna heats up quickly, but its sauna can feel harsh. A large number of stones, on the other hand, stores heat and provides a longer, more pleasant sauna experience – perfect for long sauna sessions. 4. Intended use: home, cottage or sauna room Home sauna: practicality and ease of maintenance are emphasized. An electric heater is often the best solution. The cottage's outdoor sauna: a wood-burning stove creates an authentic atmosphere, combining the smell of smoke and the closeness of nature. Sauna space for rent: a large and efficient heater ensures that even a larger group can enjoy the sauna at the same time and for a long time. 5. Energy efficiency and safety Nowadays, the emphasis in sauna heaters is also on energy efficiency and safety. A properly sized sauna heater saves electricity and wood, and has a longer service life. Also, make sure that the sauna heater is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions and fire safety regulations. Annual maintenance of the sauna heater also keeps its efficiency at the best possible level, and with a view to fire safety, it is important to keep the sauna heater clean. 6. Remember to maintain your heater If you think with common sense that a heater heats up and experiences extreme stress at best several times a week, it is clear that the heater also needs maintenance. In electric heaters, it is important to change the stones at least every two years and ensure that the heating elements do not touch each other. The arrangement of the stones is also important in both electric and wood-burning heaters, because it allows air to circulate well and the steam to evaporate properly. In wood-burning heaters, the firebox becomes caked and for this reason, it should be inspected annually and the chimney swept frequently enough. By properly maintaining the heater, you ensure the best possible steam. Sauna scents complete the experience Once you have chosen the right heater, it is a good idea to finish off your sauna evening with atmospheric sauna scents . Menthol crystals, birch leaf scents and various herbal aromas make sauna bathing even more relaxing and refreshing. Sauna scents can also make breathing easier, freshen the air and bring back memories of a summer outdoor sauna in the middle of winter. Sauna Menthol sauna scent is an excellent choice for your sauna routine because of its properties, but also because it leaves no residue in your sauna heater when used. Menthol is 100% pure mint oil, which vaporizes effectively in the sauna heater and also evaporates. Some sauna scents may contain synthetically produced aromas or oils that can leave residue in the sauna heater. So choose a sauna scent that is completely natural and pure. Summary: Choosing the right sauna heater is one of the most important decisions when it comes to having the perfect sauna experience. Remember to consider the size of your sauna room, the heater's power, the number of stones, and the intended use. Once you have the foundation in place, finish off your sauna evening with your chosen scents that will make sauna bathing an unforgettable experience.
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Sauna ice – a refreshing addition to your sauna session
In addition to traditional saunas, many people want to bring something new and very refreshing to their sauna experience. Sauna ice , also known as menthol crystals, sauna crystals, menthol crystals or sauna menthol , meets this need. Sauna ice brings a fresh, cool feeling to the sauna, which refreshes the body and mind in an extraordinary way. What is sauna ice? Sauna ice is a crystalline product made from natural menthol, which is used in the sauna in conjunction with the steam water. The crystals are pure menthol, and their special feature is a strong cooling and refreshing effect. The sauna crystals melt with the steam water and release a fresh menthol scent with the steam, which spreads throughout the sauna. The product is known by many names: sauna ice menthol chloride sauna crystal menthol crystal menthol ice cream All of these refer to the same product, the idea of which is to bring a refreshing and cleansing addition to traditional saunas. How does sauna ice work? When a small amount of menthol crystals is added to the sauna water and thrown into the heater, a special sauna experience is created. The hot steam combines with the cool menthol and creates the impression that the air feels hot and cool at the same time. This contrast of temperatures opens up the breath and refreshes the whole body. Using sauna ice is a reminder of how saunas can have a variety of effects on the body and mind. The cooling sensation produced by menthol crystals can ease breathing, relax muscles, and increase the feeling of well-being after a sauna session. Using sauna ice in the sauna Using sauna ice is easy and safe if you remember a few basic instructions: Just add a few small menthol crystals to the sauna water. Pour water into the heater as normal. Enjoy the instantly spreading fresh menthol vapor. Too many sauna crystals can make the sauna too strong, so moderation is key. Many people find their own comfortable amount by experimenting, but usually a small piece is enough to have a refreshing effect with sauna ice. Remember that sauna ice melts at temperatures above 41 degrees, so do not take a bag into the sauna, but rather make a dose outside the sauna, either in a sauna bucket or in a larger amount of sauna water. Why choose sauna ice? Sauna ice brings excitement and variety to your regular sauna experience. It is the perfect choice when you want something new for your sauna or want a refreshing feeling after a hot sauna. Menthol crystals are ideal for, for example: in connection with cooling down and open water swimming for recovery after sports performance to open your breath during flu season or just for fun as a refreshing element to accompany relaxation Many people find that sauna ice brings an almost spa-like atmosphere to the sauna, combining warmth and freshness. Sauna ice as a gift Sauna crystals are also an excellent gift idea for a sauna lover. Stylishly packaged sauna ice is a practical and surprising gift that will bring joy to many sauna sessions. It can be used to offer the recipient a new kind of experience that will be remembered for a long time. We also offer a special gift package for Sauna Menthol products, which you can purchase here. Summary Sauna ice, menthol crystals, sauna crystals, menthol crystals and menthol ice – a product called by various names – brings a new refreshing twist to Finnish saunas. It makes it easy to make a regular sauna a fresher, more invigorating and more enjoyable experience. If you're looking for a way to take your sauna experience to the next level, try Sauna Menthol sauna ice. A small amount can make a big impact – and a sauna experience that will be remembered.
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Menthol's refreshing effect on the respiratory tract and recovery in the sauna
For many Finns, a sauna is a place where the body and mind can take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In a sauna, people relax, recover after exercise and calm down before going to sleep. One of the most popular additional elements of sauna bathing is menthol, whose refreshing and cooling effect is felt both in the respiratory tract and throughout the body. But why does menthol feel so special, and how can it be utilized in the sauna in the best possible way? What makes menthol unique? Menthol is a natural compound that is obtained, for example, from mint. Its characteristic property is a cooling and refreshing feeling, although it does not actually lower the body temperature. This is because menthol activates nerve endings that transmit the message of “coolness” to the brain. Therefore, it brings relief to, for example, the respiratory tract and gives a refreshing effect throughout the sauna session, making it longer lasting and more enjoyable. Therefore, it can be said that menthol is an excellent sauna scent. Menthol in the sauna – relief for breathing The heat of a sauna combined with the fresh menthol can feel particularly pleasant in the respiratory tract. Many people find that menthol mixed with steam opens up congestion and makes breathing easier. It is not a medicine, but it can act as a gentle aid, for example during flu season or allergy season . When menthol is used in sauna water, a pleasant sauna scent is created that fills the entire sauna with its freshness. This makes sauna bathing an experience that refreshes both body and mind. Menthol is also called sauna ice as a sauna product. Recovery after exercise Menthol not only refreshes the respiratory tract, but it can also support the body's recovery . The heat of the sauna relaxes muscles, improves blood circulation and increases metabolism. When combined with the cooling sensation of menthol, many people feel lighter and more refreshed after a sauna session. This makes menthol an excellent supplement for fitness enthusiasts , athletes or active people. Practical tips for using sauna crystals in the sauna Sauna ice with menthol: Add menthol crystals to a bowl that can stand on the stones of the sauna and let it release its fresh scent with the steam little by little. Sauna fragrance and steam crystals: Convenient options for mixing, which dissolve in the steam water and provide a consistent scent. Try different strengths: Everyone experiences menthol differently – start with a small amount and gradually increase until you find your own balance. Why choose menthol sauna products? Menthol brings a whole new dimension to sauna bathing. It refreshes the breath, supports recovery and makes sauna bathing a holistic wellness experience . Whether it's relaxing on a weekday evening, a weekend cottage sauna or recovering after a sports performance, the scent of menthol makes the experience fresh and memorable. Sauna Menthol sauna scent is an unbeatable product to spice up the sauna experience. So how do I use Sauna Menthol sauna scent? We have created comprehensive instructions for using Sauna Menthol products. There are clear instructions for dosage and we also offer many tips for using them. Every sauna is different and the use of Sauna Menthol sauna ice is also affected by, among other things, the size of the sauna, the location of the heater, the amount of water and of course the amount of menthol crystals. The best sauna experience is created with a few. Check out the comprehensive instructions for use here
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Growing trends in sauna bathing – this is how sauna bathing is being renewed
For Finns, sauna bathing is more than just a way to relax – it is part of culture, well-being and everyday balance. However, in recent years, sauna bathing trends have developed strongly, and alongside the traditional sitting on benches, new ways have emerged to make sauna bathing an even more diverse and enjoyable experience. In this article, we present the most important growing trends in sauna bathing , which can be seen in both home saunas and cottage saunas. 1. Experiential sauna experience More and more people are seeking holistic well-being from sauna bathing. The atmosphere is created, for example, with lighting, relaxing music and natural sauna scents . Menthol crystals (sauna ice) and fresh sauna products have brought a new kind of refreshment to sauna bathing and make sauna bathing a unique experience. 2. Sauna bathing as part of well-being Sauna is increasingly seen as part of a healthy everyday lifestyle. Regular sauna use supports recovery, improves sleep quality and reduces stress. Many people also combine cold and hot treatments with sauna, which increases its effects on both body and mind. For example, in Finland, open water swimming is a steadily growing hobby for many people and is usually combined with sauna use. In top sports, cold and hot treatments are increasingly used, which also partly stems from sauna culture. 3. Natural and organic products Consumers are increasingly appreciating ecological and safe alternatives. This is also reflected in the sauna: natural sauna scents and various sauna accessories are of interest to people who want to make a sustainable choice. 4. Internationalizing sauna culture Sauna use is no longer just a privilege for Finns. Saunas have grown in popularity, for example, in North America and Central Europe, where sauna trends are spreading rapidly. Finnish sauna products are also gaining interest around the world, and the sauna scent of Sauna Menthol, for example, has found its way into homes around the world. Summary Sauna bathing is experiencing a strong upswing, combining tradition and modern wellness trends. Experientialism, natural products and holistic well-being are making the sauna an even more meaningful part of everyday life. If you want to take your sauna to the next level, try refreshing menthol crystals or other high-quality sauna fragrances – and make the sauna a real experience.
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How are sauna stones made and what is good to know about them?
Sauna stones are the heart of the Finnish sauna and the recipe for a great sauna experience. They store the heat of the heater and release it as gentle or intense steam when water is poured over it. Although sauna stones may seem simple, their manufacture, properties and maintenance have a significant impact on the entire sauna experience. Historical background – stones before electric heaters The use of sauna stones dates back to the time before electricity. In traditional smoke saunas, the stones were heated directly with wood. Choosing the right stones was a meticulous task: they had to withstand intense heat and sudden temperature changes without cracking. Often, dense and heavy stones collected from nature were used, such as peridotite or olivine diabase. When electric heaters became more common after the mid-20th century, the role of sauna stones did not change – but the size, shape and quality of the stones became standardized with industrial production, becoming a very precise part of the sauna. So how are sauna stones made? Today's sauna stones are most often made from natural stone, which is quarried from rock and crushed to a suitable size. Sauna stones are therefore not searched for or collected, but are quarried from predetermined rock materials. The most common materials are: Peridotite – a very dense rock, excellent for storing heat Olivine diabase – highly resistant to temperature fluctuations Gabbro and diabase – dark, hard and long-lasting material Manufacturing process: Quarrying – stone is removed from rock in a mine. Crushing – the stone is broken into the desired size, typically into pieces of 5–15 cm. Screening – we screen out pieces that are too small and too large. Washing – removes dust and stone residue so that the stones do not smell when burned. Packaging – stones are usually packed in 20 kg bags or boxes. Why is changing stones important? During use, sauna stones deteriorate. They may crack, crumble or collect dust and limescale. Stones in poor condition: Reduces the quality of the sauna Slows down the heating of the heater Loads the heater's resistors or firebox Stone replacement interval For home use : approximately every 1–2 years In heavy use (e.g. a housing company sauna) : up to 1–2 times a year Sometimes it is enough to rearrange the stones – lift them out, remove the crumbled ones, and place the intact ones back in an airy manner. This improves air circulation in the heater. The correct way to stack stones Arrange the stones in an airy manner so that air can circulate around the heating elements or firebox. Use larger stones on the bottom, smaller ones on top. Avoid stacking the stones too tightly – it slows down the heater and can damage the heating elements. Special sauna stones and trends In recent years, special stones, such as soapstone and ceramic stones, have also been introduced to the market. These can be used to influence the softness and appearance of the sauna. For example, soapstone stores heat exceptionally well and releases it for a long time, which is especially suitable for long, peaceful saunas. Sauna stones and sauna scents Good sauna stones make the sauna experience even and pleasant – and this is also important when using sauna fragrances. When the heat of the stones is even, for example, Sauna Menthol sauna fragrance evaporates perfectly, releasing a fresh menthol aroma without any bitter aftertastes. Using liquid sauna fragrances does not leave any residue on the sauna stones, as long as they are made completely naturally. For example, Sauna Menthol sauna ice does not contain anything added and is a completely natural sauna fragrance.
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The benefits of hot-cold therapy for the body and mind
Traditional Finnish sauna culture often involves alternating between a hot sauna and a cooling shower or a cold shower. This practice is called cold-hot therapy, and its popularity is explained by its diverse well-being effects – for both body and mind. Social media shows that many top athletes favor this method, especially as part of recovery and honing their bodies to peak condition. But what are the benefits of this alternation, and why is it worth making it part of your own sauna routine? What does hot-cold therapy mean? Cold-hot therapy means alternating heat and cold, for example between a sauna and a cold shower. The treatment is based on activating blood circulation, balancing the nervous system and supporting the body's own recovery ability through various methods. This type of temperature variation has been used for centuries as part of folk healing and is now also used in the recovery of top athletes. 1. Improves blood circulation and metabolism The heat of the sauna dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow . When the body is suddenly exposed to cold, the blood vessels constrict. This "vascular workout" improves blood circulation and can help remove waste products from the body. Regular alternating between hot and cold can also support lymph circulation and reduce fluid retention in human tissues. 2. Speeds up muscle recovery Many athletes use hot and cold therapy to relieve muscle tension and strain. Heat relaxes and eases muscle pain, while cold reduces inflammation and swelling. The variation helps the body recover faster and relieves muscle tightness. 3. Strengthens immunity Alternating exposure to cold and heat acts as a natural stimulus for the body, stimulating the immune system. Many people find that regular sauna use and exposure to cold reduce their chances of getting sick, although scientific research on the subject is still in its infancy. The popularity of open-water swimming is also based on health benefits, which are strongly linked to cold-hot therapy. 4. Supports stress relief and sleep quality The heat of a sauna is known to calm, and the cold to awaken – this alternation can help balance the nervous system, reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Many people experience a deep sense of relaxation after a sauna and cold exposure, which can help them fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. 5. Refreshes the skin and is good for breathing Sweating in the heat cleanses the pores, and the cold closes them again. The end result can be a cleaner and firmer skin. When combined with the treatment with Sauna Menthol , the effect also extends to the respiratory tract – the fresh menthol opens the breath and refreshes the mind. Menthol sauna ice as part of the treatment Sauna Menthol's natural and effective Sauna Menthol sauna ice makes cold-hot treatment even more enjoyable. The cooling effect of menthol is felt on the skin and in the respiratory tract, and it is ideal for use in conjunction with sauna bathing before or after exposure to cold. The product is used by simply adding a small amount of sauna ice crystals to the sauna water. The end result is a fresh and refreshing sauna experience. Compared to traditional sauna scents, menthol crystals are comparatively very strong and effective. Just a few menthol crystals are enough to create an exceptionally fresh, refreshing and cooling feeling in the sauna. How to start hot-cold therapy Start with a sauna – warm up for 10–15 minutes to activate your body and blood circulation. Go cold – take a cold shower or dip outside or in an open area. Return to the sauna – warm up again and repeat the treatment cycle as needed. Use Sauna Menthol – refresh the experience with the freshness of menthol. Effectively opens the airways. Summary Hot-cold therapy is an easy and effective way to support the well-being of the body and mind. It is a perfect part of the sauna tradition and works perfectly in combination with Sauna Menthol sauna ice. Whether you are relaxing or recovering from a workout, this combination offers a natural and refreshing way to take care of yourself. Discover Sauna Menthol sauna fragrance here.
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Sauna Menthol®
Sauna Menthol®
Sauna Menthol® enhances your sauna experience and creates a unique spa-like ambiance that soothes and refreshes both body and mind. Menthol makes sauna bathing more enjoyable, longer-lasting, and adds a revitalizing effect to the moments even after your sauna session.
Experience the perfect combination of sauna and menthol with Sauna Menthol sauna ice and steam fragrances. The menthol crystals are made from 100% natural essential mint oil, bringing a fresh, invigorating, and even icy coolness to your sauna. This refreshing contrast to the sauna's heat effectively opens your airways.
Try it out and enjoy the coolest moment of your sauna experience – a perfect gift for any sauna lover!
Delivery costs calculated at checkout.
- Delivery from Seinäjoki, Finland
- 100% natural product
- Sauna Menthol products are currently available for delivery within Europe only. If you're interested in reselling or international shipping, feel free to contact us.
