In this study, Masaaki Miyata and Chuwa Tei explored the benefits of Waon therapy, a form of thermal treatment using a dry sauna maintained at a moderate temperature of 60°C, for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). They found that regular use of Waon therapy significantly improved heart function and reduced symptoms in CHF patients, including better blood flow, decreased heart size, and improved exercise tolerance. Additionally, Waon therapy was shown to decrease harmful ventricular arrhythmias and lower stress on the heart by reducing sympathetic nervous activity. The therapy also improved vascular function by increasing the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), a molecule important for blood vessel health, which led to better circulation. In a study involving 129 CHF patients, those who underwent regular Waon therapy experienced fewer hospitalizations and deaths over five years, suggesting long-term cardiovascular benefits.
Beyond CHF, Waon therapy was also found to have significant positive effects for patients with PAD. In these patients, the therapy improved blood flow, reduced pain, and helped heal ischemic ulcers. In animal studies, repeated Waon therapy enhanced the formation of new blood vessels and improved blood circulation, which was dependent on the upregulation of eNOS. This process was crucial for improving peripheral blood flow and reducing symptoms of PAD, such as leg pain and ulcers. Waon therapy also showed promise for people with other lifestyle-related cardiovascular risk factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, by improving vascular function and reducing oxidative stress. These findings indicate that Waon therapy could be a valuable, non-invasive treatment option for people with cardiovascular diseases, helping to improve both heart and vascular health.
