Top 6 Healing Places In The World

All throughout history, mankind has yearned to benefit from the natural healing powers that our planet has to offer. These mystifying places can be found in all corners of the Earth — some are difficult to explain and shrouded in mystery, while others have revealed their secrets through scientific investigation. In either case, these places symbolize a unique quest for healing that resides outside the realm of modern medicine. Let's explore some of the best healing places in the world.

Onsen - Japan

In Japan, the word “onsen” refers to hot springs, and the country is full of them. Historical evidence of these springs being used for their apparent health benefits dates back as far as 1,200 years ago. The original legend began in the year 807, when a Buddhist monk came across a small boy bathing his ill father in a river. Out of fear that the cold water would make his father even sicker, he used his dokkosho (a ritual instrument) to pry between the rocks and release water from the hot spring below. The story goes that the hot, mineral rich water eventually cured the father, and these onsen have been instilled as a source of healing in Japanese culture ever since.

River Ganga - India

The river Ganga is known for its beauty and its spiritual significance. The waters of the river Ganga have been found to possess bactericidal activity, which is the ability to kill bacteria. This is due to high concentrations of bacteriophages, which attack and kill bacteria and pathogens in the body. Since phages are highly strain-specific, they’re essentially harmless to humans.

Holy Wells - British Isles

Certain wells have been found to contain specific chemicals. For instance, sulfur is commonly found in these wells, which can have positive effects on individuals suffering from skin ailments. Some wells are thought to be able to “strengthen” weak children. Not surprisingly, these same wells were found to have high concentrations of iron. Similarly, the wells in County Kerry’s Valley of the Mad were found to contain high levels of lithium, which is known as an effective treatment for some mental illnesses.

Marijuana Plantations - Jamaica

Jamaica is a destination known not only for its tropical climate and diverse ecosystems, but also for its supposed healing powers. Unlike most of the places on this list, Jamaica’s healing powers do not stem from a specific location, but rather a specific plant. There are a number of well-supported claims about the health benefits of smoking marijuana, including its ability to treat ailments such as epilepsy, anxiety and even cancer. Another claim states that marijuana use can prevent glaucoma.

Salt Caverns - Berchtesgaden

In a place allegedly referred to by Dalai Llama as the “Heart Chakra of the Alps,” a visit to the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine is undoubtedly an enchanting experience. Well-known for its historical significance, the mine is the oldest in Europe, dating back to around the twelfth century. Nestled in Germany’s Bavarian Alps, the region offers stunning views, fresh air and a relaxing cave experience like no other.

Blue Lagoon - Iceland

Renowned for its mineral-rich geothermal seawater, Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is natural healing at its finest. The steaming blue lagoon, set within a striking volcanic landscape, promises to rejuvenate your skin and relax your body. Premium entrance to the outdoor spa includes a cozy bathrobe, slippers, and two mud masks, which you apply to your skin in the water.

For many of us, travel is the pursuit of natural healing. It’s about discovering places we’ve never seen, engaging with cultures different from our own, and ultimately uncovering a side of ourselves that has yet to be revealed. We return to our "real lives" with a deep sense of renewal.