There are a number of healing centers in Siwa Oasis, of
which the most important is Al-Dakrour Mountain,( Gebel
Dakrour ) 3 km south east of Siwa .Which has been renowned for the healing
qualities of its hot sands since ancient times, as well as for being a major
source of the red pigment used in Siwan pottery.
People come from all around
Egypt and the world during the summer months to be interred in sand baths which
have properties of healing rheumatism. The sand bath lasts approximately 20
minutes and you are buried up to your neck in the hot desert sand; the process
is usually repeated for any aching part of the body for 3 to 5 days. The
therapy is stunning; it has almost a magical effect, rheumatic and arthritic
pains will be greatly dissipated. After the heat of the sand you will need a
few hours to recover, it is recommended that you sit in a shady place and drink
tea. Many of those who experience the healing properties of Gebel Dakrour’s
sand baths return time and time again to heal their pains.
The mountain is famous of relieving rheumatism, joint
pains and general weakness. Several aged sheikhs are responsible for treating
patients suffering from these ailments by burying their bodies in sand. The
cure takes place during the summer at specific times of the day: immersion can
last from quarter to half an hour, daily for two weeks.Siwa also has hot
springs which have been proven effective for the treatment of psoriasis,
rheumatism and diseases related to the digestive system.