This is the signature treatment of the spa resort in Marienbad, where the gaseous carbon dioxide that bubbles naturally out of the ground – ‘Maria’s gas’ – has been used for healing over the last 200 years. This gas is of volcanic origin and contains 99.7% CO2. During the treatment, you lie comfortably and partially clothed on a bed in a private cubicle, enclosed in a large plastic bag that is sealed around your chest. Gaseous carbon dioxide is then pumped into the bag, which slowly inflates. The gas permeates through the clothes and skin into the body. Carbon dioxide is proven to widen blood vessels thus improving blood circulation, which in turn reduces heart rate and lowers blood pressure, has an anti-inflammatory effect, accelerates the healing of wounds and positively affects kidney activity. The CO2 is also known to stimulate the production of the sexual hormones, testosterone and estradiol, which is why it is recommended for the improvement of sexual functions and relieving menopausal symptoms in women. Last but not least, it stimulates tissue metabolism thus supporting regeneration of cells and also slowing down the natural aging process. This procedure is also available to children in all Marienbad health spa hotels with smaller plastic bags being used.