What Science Says About Saunas and Immune Function
Posted on 30 July 2025
Sauna use is well known for its array of health and wellness benefits. This is what has made diy sauna kits such a popular investment amongst homeowners these days. Whether it is for muscle recovery, stress reduction, boosting your cardiovascular system, or simply unwinding, your sauna can support you. In fact, your sauna can even support your immune system when you need to boost recovery when you're ill. A great deal of research has been conducted on the health benefits of saunas, and there is evidence that suggests that sauna use can boost your immune response. If you are interested in a home sauna, ensure you purchase one from a reputable sauna company like SaunaFin. Browse our website today!
The Body's Response to Heat Exposure
Once you step into the sauna, you may notice a few immediate bodily responses. Firstly, you will begin to sweat because of the intense heat. As this occurs, your core body temperature will also increase, mimicking that of a mild fever. This fever is what triggers immune responses from the body.
A sauna session will also increase your heart rate, similarly to if you were doing light cardiovascular exercise. In addition to this, sauna use can increase the production of heat-shock proteins, which are also vital in immunity.
Immune Responses Triggered by Sauna Use
The extreme heat experienced in the sauna can trigger the body into thinking that it is under stress and requires boosted immune function.
Increased White Blood Cell Production
Science has shown that time in the sauna can result in a short-term increase in the production of white blood cells in the body. White blood cells help protect your body against infections and diseases. They are often seen as the body's first line of defence when it comes to fighting off bacteria, viruses, and pathogens.
Heat-Shock Proteins
Partaking in regular sauna sessions has also been shown to boost your immune system by stimulating the production of heat-shock proteins. Heat-shock proteins are a natural body response to stress. They help the cells in your body effectively respond to stress, intense temperature fluctuations, and low oxygen. These proteins are also an essential part of cell signalling and immune responses.
Increased Blood Flow
Although this may seem obvious, sauna use significantly increases blood flow throughout the body, both by increasing heart rate and promoting vasodilation. Increased blood flow throughout the body is actually vital to your immunity, as the better the blood flow, the more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to infected areas of the body. This helps your body heal quicker.
Boost Your Immune System with a SaunaFin Sauna
If you need another reason to be convinced to invest in a DIY sauna kit, just know that regular sauna sessions can improve immune function, allowing your body to heal efficiently when you are ill or injured. For those looking to take their health and wellness routine to the next level, a home sauna might be an excellent choice for ultimate convenience and cost-effectiveness. Before you get started on your sauna journey, look into reputable sauna companies. Browse home sauna options on SaunFin's website today!
