Constitutional Hydrotherapy
Constitutional Hydrotherapy at Home
A Gentle Water Therapy for Kids & Families
What Is Constitutional Hydrotherapy?
Constitutional hydrotherapy is the therapeutic use of hot and cold water applications on the chest and abdomen to stimulate:
Immune system activity
Healthy circulation and blood flow
Digestion and detoxification
General vitality and healing
It is simple, non-invasive, and can be used for both prevention and acute illness.
When to Use It (Indications)
Constitutional hydrotherapy may help with:
Colds and flus
Constipation or sluggish digestion
Abdominal aches or cramps
Heartburn / reflux (GERD)
Menstrual cramps
Bronchitis or congestion
Lymphatic congestion
Fatigue, mild depression, or low vitality
Arthritis or aches and pains
When NOT to Use It (Contraindications)
Do not use at-home hydrotherapy if:
Child has asthma
There is an acute bladder infection
There is difficulty sensing hot or cold
Temperature is below 97°F (36.1°C)
Any chronic condition without your doctor’s guidance
*Always consult your healthcare provider if unsure.
What You’ll Need
2 basins or tubs of water (one hot, one cold — with or without ice)
3 towels (bath-sized for adults, smaller hand towels for kids)
2 blankets + 1 flat sheet
A kettle or microwave to heat towels
A helper
How To Do It (With a Child)
Prepare the Bed
Spread 2 blankets lengthwise with a sheet over them.
Have the child lie on their back, unclothed from the chest up.
Hot Application (5 minutes)
Soak towels in hot water, wring out, and place across the chest and abdomen.
Wrap snugly in sheet and blankets (wrap like a burrito).
Leave in place for 5 minutes. Then remove towel back in warm basin.
🔹 Tip: Towels should feel very warm but not burn. Test on your own skin first.
Cold Application (10 minutes)
Wring out a towel in cold water (with or without ice) and place it on the chest and abdomen.
Re-wrap snugly in sheet and blankets.
Keep in place until the towel warms to body temperature (at least 10 minutes).
Repeat on the Back
Have the child lie on their stomach.
Apply hot towels for 5 minutes, then cold for 10 minutes, just as above.
At-Home Variation (No Helper)
For older kids or adults:
Wet a cotton T-shirt and place in the freezer while taking a warm shower.
After shower, put on the cold T-shirt directly against the skin.
Wrap tightly in sheet and blankets (“burrito style”).
Rest until the shirt becomes warm to the touch.
Frequency
During illness: every 2–3 days
For prevention: once a week or as desired
Safety & Cautions
Use smaller towels for children so they’re comfortable and fully wrapped.
Never let the child become chilled — add blankets or place a hot water bottle at the feet if needed.
Always check towel temperature on your forearm first.
If symptoms do not improve after a few treatments, check with your doctor.
💧 Constitutional hydrotherapy is a time-honored naturopathic practice to gently encourage the body’s natural healing. When done safely at home, it can support your child’s resilience and recovery.