Ichthyotherapy can be defined as the use of fresh water or marine organisms or "fish" as agents of skin wound/condition cleansing. The name Ichthyotherapy comes from the Greek name for fish - Ichthys.

Scientific Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Genus: Garra
Species: G. Rufa

Gara Rufa fish consume affected and dead areas of skin, leaving healthy remaining skin to flourish. They use a sucking action as they do not have any teeth. The fish gather where there is most food, so wherever your problem areas are you can be assured they will do their best to alleviate them.

Their secret - an enzyme in their saliva call Dithranol which is said to have skin healing properties, thus making this fish therapy ideal for sufferers of eczema and psoriasis. The spas are not meant as a curative treatment option, only as temporary alleviation of symptoms, and patients usually revisit their spas every few months.

Not only do these clever "Dr. Fish" help aid in skin healing, they work together in their team to stimulate acupuncture and reflexology points, helping to relax the body and release fatigue. Circulation is also increased during this treatment.

Once you have experienced your organic pedicure your feet will be naturally exfoliated, feeling softer and weightless.

Fish therapy is completely painless and is generally compared to receiving a tingling massage. It will stimulate pressure points helping to regulate the nervous systems, relax the body and release fatigue. Blood flow and circulation will also improve during the treatment making is ideal for Diabetics and for those who suffer poor circulation.

The overall benefits are of deep relaxation, calming the mind and body, also lowering the blood pressure.