Some of the relations of water to the living system have been considered
in the preceding section. In the present connection we shall consider
chiefly those effects resulting from the application of water to the
human body in various ways which give to it its value as a remedial
agent, though its therapeutical applications will be deferred to
succeeding sections.
The effects of water upon the human system are the results of the
operation of its physical properties in conjunction with the vital
forces. As with all other agents, its effects may be either local, or
general, according to the mode of application. Different effects are
also produced according as the administration is internal or external.
Many other modifying circumstances, as age, sex, and physical condition,
affect the results in a greater or lesser degree.