SAUNA BATHING AND CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH: PHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS, CLINICAL BENEFITS, AND PREVENTIVE IMPLICATIONS – A LITERATURE REVIEW

Emilia Trojanowska; Bartosz Piech; Alicja Judzińska; Kamila Sobczyńska; Justyna Ignarska; Magda Terbosh; Sabina Kubicz Mzabi; Magdalena Dubaj; Marlena Kwolek; Julia Osipowska

doi:10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5608

Authors

Emilia Trojanowska SP ZOZ MSWiA, Grenadierów 3, 20-331 Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0009-7331-6624
Bartosz Piech University Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Lublin (USK1), Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4621-5226
Alicja Judzińska University Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Lublin (USK1), Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7525-4012
Kamila Sobczyńska Stefan Cardinal Wyszyński Provincial Specialist Hospital in Lublin, al. Kraśnicka 100, 20-718 Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0938-1711
Justyna Ignarska University Clinical Hospital No. 4 in Lublin, Doktora Kazimierza Jaczewskiego 8, 20-954 Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0009-0340-8240
Magda Terbosh University Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Lublin (USK1), Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0006-3756-3394
Sabina Kubicz Mzabi University Clinical Hospital No. 4 in Lublin, Doktora Kazimierza Jaczewskiego 8, 20-954 Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0008-2788-5538
Magdalena Dubaj University Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Lublin (USK1), Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4429-2679
Marlena Kwolek University Clinical Hospital No. 4 in Lublin, Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0004-1428-1103
Julia Osipowska University Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Lublin (USK1), Lublin, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0007-9024-9908

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5608

Keywords:

Sauna Bathing, Cardiovascular Health, Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, Heat Therapy, Arterial Stiffness, Endothelial Function

Abstract

Introduction: Sauna bathing has evolved from a traditional cultural practice into a scientifically recognized lifestyle intervention with potential cardiovascular benefits. This literature review critically evaluates current evidence regarding the physiological mechanisms, clinical outcomes, and preventive implications of sauna use for cardiovascular health.

Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted to identify studies published between 2007 and 2026, including observational cohorts, randomized controlled trials, and systematic reviews.

Results: Findings show that short-term effect of Finnish sauna session on cardiovascular health include increased heart rate, enhanced cardiac output and peripheral vasodilation, mimicking physiological adaptations observed during moderate-intensity exercise.

Long-term and repeated sauna use is associated with reductions in arterial stiffness, improved endothelial function, decreased systolic blood pressure, and lower risks of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. These benefits are mediated through enhanced nitric oxide bioavailability, heat shock protein induction, anti-inflammatory effects, and improved autonomic regulation. Combining sauna bathing with other healthy behaviors, such as exercise, adequate sleep, hydration, and balanced nutrition, amplifies cardiovascular benefits.

Data summary of the studies support use of the long-term sauna association with reduced arterial stiffness, improved endothelial function, lower blood pressure, lower risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. These effects thought to be mediated by multiple biological mechanisms, including increased nitric oxide bioavailability, modulation of heat shock proteins, reduction of systemic inflammation, and improved autonomic balance.

Conclusions: Sauna bathing is a promising, low-cost, and culturally adaptable adjunct to lifestyle-based cardiovascular prevention strategies. It should be integrated into holistic health programs, with attention to safety and individualized recommendations. Future research should establish standardized protocols, clarify dose-response relationships, and explore long-term clinical and public health impacts.

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