The Art Of Hot Potting: A Culinary Adventure

Hot potting is the practice of soaking in natural hot springs. People have been doing this for thousands of years, and it is known to promote relaxation and general wellness. However, it can be dangerous, and has caused serious injury and death.

What is hot potting?

Hot potting is the practice of soaking in natural hot springs. These springs, also known as thermal springs, are formed when water seeps deep into the Earth and circulates back up. The deeper the water goes, the hotter it gets. In volcanic areas, water may also gain heat from contact with magma.

Hot springs have been popular for thousands of years, with people soaking in them for relaxation and wellness. The ancient Greeks, for example, bathed in sulfur springs to treat skin diseases and ease muscle and joint pain. Today, hot springs are popular tourist destinations, with many spas cropping up nearby.

However, hot potting can be dangerous. Hot springs can reach temperatures high enough to cause third-degree burns in seconds and even kill. Some are also highly acidic, which can severely burn the eyes and skin. Additionally, natural springs contain many microorganisms that can lead to waterborne diseases.

Despite the risks, hot potting remains a popular activity. There are several types of locations where one can practice hot potting:

• Health and wellness resorts
• Rustic hot potting spots (e.g. in the middle of a forest)
• Public state park hot springs
• Indoor thermal baths

Is hot potting safe?

Hot potting is the practice of soaking in natural hot springs. While it has been done for thousands of years, it is a dangerous activity that has caused serious injuries and even deaths. So, is hot potting safe? The answer is that it depends on several factors.

Firstly, the temperature of hot springs varies, and hot springs can appear deceptively cool. At 122°F (50°C), a hot spring can cause a serious burn in about 10 minutes, and temperatures can reach much higher. Therefore, it is crucial to know the temperature of the hot spring before soaking and to exercise caution, especially when hot potting in unregulated natural springs.

Secondly, some hot springs are highly acidic, which can cause severe burns to the skin and eyes. It is important to research the mineral content of a hot spring before soaking, as the high acidity can be dangerous.

Thirdly, natural hot springs contain various microorganisms that can lead to waterborne diseases, infections, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal illnesses. While commercial hot spring sources adhere to health codes, it is still essential to inquire about the safety measures and water testing practices of any hot spring facility you plan to visit.

Finally, certain individuals may be at a higher risk of injury or health complications from hot potting. For example, people with heart disease, open wounds, or a tendency to faint, fall, or slip should exercise caution and consult a doctor before hot potting. Additionally, pregnant women should limit their soaking time to less than 10 minutes and avoid submerging their entire body in the water.

In conclusion, while hot potting can be a relaxing and beneficial experience, it is essential to prioritize safety. It is crucial to research and follow safety guidelines, understand the potential risks, and be cautious when entering and soaking in hot springs.

What are the benefits of hot potting?

Hot potting, or balneotherapy, is the act of soaking in a natural hot spring. Hot springs are formed when water seeps deep into the Earth and circulates back up, with the deeper the water goes, the hotter the temperature.

Relaxation and Stress Reduction

The heat of the water relaxes muscles, helping to relieve pain. Soaking in water can also help to ease aches and pains, particularly in the joints. Reducing stress can help improve your outlook and overall physical and mental health.

Relief for Skin Conditions

Minerals in these waters may have anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, itching, acne, and seborrheic dermatitis. A 2019 literature review suggested that mineral waters in Persia can reduce symptoms of psoriasis.

Weight Loss

The heat from hot potting may increase circulation in a similar way to exercise and has been shown to increase metabolic rate and burn extra calories compared to sitting at rest. A 2017 study found that bathing in hot water can help burn calories, especially for people who are unable to exercise.

Improved Vascular Function

Research from 2016 shows that hot water immersion may improve vascular function and blood pressure.

What are the risks of hot potting?

Hot potting, or soaking in natural hot springs, is a dangerous practice that has resulted in serious injuries and even deaths. Here are some of the risks associated with hot potting:

Extreme Temperature

The temperature of a hot spring may not be obvious at first glance, and one could easily suffer severe burns within seconds. Hot springs can reach temperatures that far exceed the boiling point of water, and can cause instant death. At 122°F (50°C), one can get a serious burn within about 10 minutes. At 140°F (60°C), it only takes about 3 seconds to incur a serious burn. Some hot springs can even shoot water into the air like a geyser.

High Acidity

Some hot springs are highly acidic, which can cause severe burns to the eyes and skin. The acidic nature of the water can also dissolve human remains, as seen in the tragic case of Colin Scott, who fell into the Porkchop Geyser in Yellowstone National Park in 2016.

Harmful Microorganisms

Natural hot springs can harbour various microorganisms that can lead to waterborne diseases such as infections, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal illnesses.

Health Conditions and Safety Concerns

Hot potting is not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, seizure disorders, narcolepsy, or fainting disorders. Pregnant women should limit their time in hot springs to less than 10 minutes, and individuals with open wounds or cuts should refrain from entering mineral-rich waters. Additionally, those who cannot swim or are prone to slipping, falling, or fainting are at an increased risk of injury or drowning.

Prohibited Areas and Safety Measures

Some areas, such as certain geysers in Yellowstone National Park, prohibit entering hot springs due to the extreme temperatures and acidity of the water. Warning signs and safety barriers should always be heeded to avoid accidents. It is crucial to plan in advance and check if the hot springs are safe for use, as well as follow posted safety measures and guidelines.

How to hot pot safely

Hot pot is a fun and interactive dining experience, but there are some safety measures to keep in mind when preparing and enjoying this meal. Here are some tips on how to hot pot safely:

Choose Your Broth and Ingredients Wisely:

• Select a broth that suits your taste preferences. Popular options include chicken broth, tom yum, ma-la, and savory mushroom.
• Choose a variety of meats, proteins, seafood, and vegetables that will cook at different rates. For example, thinly sliced beef cooks quickly (within 10 to 30 seconds), while chicken pieces take longer.
• Include some delicate vegetables like tomatoes, watercress, and lettuce that will cook within seconds, as well as heartier options like turnips, daikon radish, and napa cabbage that require more time.
• If you're a beginner, opt for pre-sliced meats and fish or meat balls, which are easier to cook evenly.

Prepare and Cook Your Ingredients Safely:

• Always bring the broth to a boil before adding any raw meat or seafood to kill bacteria.
• Use long chopsticks or a hotpot strainer to carefully add ingredients to the hot broth, preventing splashes that could cause burns.
• Cook ingredients in the following order: meat or fish balls, larger pieces of protein and hardy greens, delicate meats and greens, and finally, noodles.
• Pay attention to cooking times. For example, thinly sliced meats cook quickly (within seconds), while heartier vegetables or mushrooms can take several minutes.
• Stir the hotpot occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Use separate utensils for cooking and eating to avoid cross-contamination.

Enjoy Your Meal with Caution:

• Create your own dipping sauce using provided ingredients like scallions, cilantro, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and black vinegar.
• Use caution when consuming hot foods like tofu or balls, as they absorb a lot of hot broth and can retain heat.
• Sip the broth slowly towards the end of the meal, as it will still be incredibly hot.
• Accompany your hot pot with side dishes like roasted nuts, spicy cucumber salad, scallion pancakes, or spring rolls to enhance the experience.

Frequently asked questions