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Researchers of the University of Tartu studied the strong medical mineral water of Värska resort for one year and confirmed that it can effectively support the treatment of upper respiratory diseases.
Associate Professor of Bioorganic Chemistry Uno Mäeorg, Associate Professor in Geology Enn Karro and Head of the Institute of Pharmacy, Professor in Pharmacognosy Ain Raal studied the mineral water of the bore well no. 6 in Värska, coming from 595 metres deep, to find out whether it could be used in the fight against upper respiratory diseases.
According to Raal, the results of chemical and microbiological analyses of the mineral water were very good. “The results confirmed that the water from that well is suitable for use in hygiene procedures and moisturising mucous membranes, but also relieves mild mucosal inflammations in the mouth, throat, nose and paranasal sinuses,” Raal said.
Having compared the water from Värska to the ocean and seawater, researchers found that their salinity is quite equal, but the well water has one advantage – it is sterile and does not need additional purification. Mineral water coming from the depths of the earth has not been affected by human activity and contains all the valuable minerals and micronutrients that have been beneath the ground for millennia.
Researchers also compared the Värska medical mineral water with the nasal sprays sold in Estonia. Professor Raal confirmed that the salinity and other properties of the mineral water are suitable for use as a spray and no additives or preservatives are needed. Since it is completely natural, it cannot have harmful side effects and is also suitable for extended use. However, additives could improve the therapeutic effect of the spray.
The brand name of the Estonian nasal and throat spray is Tsilk. It relieves nasal congestion, throat irritation and dry throat, clears the nasal cavity of excess mucus and protects it from infection.
Further information:
Ain Raal
Head of the University of Tartu Institute of Pharmacy
+372 502 7574
ain.raal@ut.ee
Information sent by
Virge Ratasepp
Communication Specialist of the University of Tartu Faculty of Medicine
+372 5815 5392
virge.ratasepp@ut.ee
