Thermal mud maturation: organic matter and biological activity

Area of Science:

• Biogeochemistry
• Cosmetic Science
• Dermatology

Background:

• Mud therapy is widely used in spas for skin moisturization, anti-aging, and rheumatic disease treatment.
• Thermal muds are complex natural matrices of organic and inorganic elements, formed by mixing clay and thermal water.
• Microalgae contribute organic substances during mud maturation, influencing its final composition and properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish objective parameters for characterizing thermal mud.
• To assess the efficacy of thermal mud based on its maturation process.
• To identify key indicators of thermal mud quality for therapeutic and cosmetic use.

Main Methods:

• Samples of thermal mud from Saturnia spa were analyzed for organic components using extractive methods and chromatography (HPLC, GC-MS, SPME).
• Radical scavenging activity was evaluated using DPPH, ORAC, and ABTS assays at different maturation stages.
• Lipid content and compound classes, including fatty acids and alcohols, were identified.

Main Results:

• Maturation over six to seven months increased lipid content significantly.
• Six-month-matured mud exhibited the highest antioxidant activity.
• Hydrophilic extracts demonstrated greater antioxidant activity compared to lipophilic extracts.

Conclusions:

• Changes in organic composition and antioxidant properties correlate with thermal mud maturation time.
• Developing reference standards for thermal muds is crucial for consistent therapeutic and cosmetic applications.
• Objective characterization methods can ensure the quality and efficacy of thermal mud treatments.