Mineral Spotlight: Lithium

Lithium (Li), No. 3 on the Periodic Table, is the 33^rd most abundant element in the Earth’s crust but occurs naturally only in compounds.

At the end of the 19^th century, Lithia Springs, Georgia, was a popular spa for such visitors as Mark Twain, the Vanderbilts and four U.S. presidents because of its lithium waters, which are still bottled and sold today. Recent research suggests unexpected benefits of lithium for human health, especially brain, mental and emotional health.

Researchers speculate that lithium promotes the health, growth and resilience of neurons. Lithium is the most effective treatment for Lou Gehrig’s disease. It has been used to treat mental illness, eating disorders, blood disorders, headache, alcoholism, epilepsy, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disorders, arthritis, overactive thyroid and asthma.

Your body contains about 7 milligrams of lithium. While there is no Recommended Dietary Allowance for the element, it is considered safe up to five milligrams a day. In addition to drinking water, nutritional lithium comes from grains, vegetables, mustard, kelp, pistachios, dairy, fish, and meat.

Soaking in Iron Mountain Hot Springs provides a safe and relaxing means of enjoying a lithium lift. The mineral is absorbed through your skin in small quantities; as a result you’ll feel calmer and happier.

Learn more about the wellness and healing benefits of soaking in geothermal springs at www.ironmountainhotsprings.com.