The Healing Power of Essentuki Water: Who Should Choose Springs No. 4, No. 17, and "Essentuki Novaya"
The Healing Power of Essentuki Water: Who Should Choose Springs No. 4, No. 17, and "Essentuki Novaya"?
Essentuki is rightfully considered one of Russia's premier health resorts. The secret to this resort city lies in its unique mineral waters. Among the more than 20 springs possessing therapeutic properties, the famous "Essentuki No. 4" and "Essentuki No. 17" hold a special place, alongside the lesser-known but equally valuable "Essentuki Novaya." It is precisely these waters that have made the resort famous throughout the country and far beyond its borders.
But how do they differ? Which water is right for whom, and how should it be consumed to derive the maximum benefit? We explore this with experts from the Pyatigorsk Research Institute of Balneology, whose scientific research confirms the effectiveness of these natural remedies.
Essentuki No. 4: Gentle Wellness for the Whole Body
"Essentuki No. 4" is a medicinal-table water with medium mineralization (7.0–10.0 g/L). In terms of composition, it is classified as a sodium chloride-bicarbonate water. It has a mild, slightly salty taste without harsh notes, making it the most popular choice for regular therapeutic drinking.
Who it is for:
This water has a gentler effect on the body. It is recommended for various gastrointestinal and metabolic disorders, as well as for supporting liver and pancreatic function.
Scientific studies by the Pyatigorsk Research Institute of Balneology show that a course of "Essentuki No. 4" helps normalize blood glucose levels, making it invaluable for metabolic disorders. The water gently stimulates gastric activity, improves digestion, and aids in cleansing the body.
"Essentuki No. 4" is frequently prescribed as part of comprehensive treatment programs for gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastritis, gastroduodenitis, and intestinal motility disorders.
Essentuki No. 17: powerful support for serious disorders
"Essentuki No. 17" is a highly mineralized (10.0–14.0 g/L) medicinal water. It is classified as a chloride-bicarbonate sodium, boron-containing water. It has a more intense, salty taste. Due to its high salt concentration, this water offers a more pronounced therapeutic effect.
Who it is for:
"Essentuki No. 17" is intended for those requiring significant therapeutic support. It is prescribed for:
- Chronic gastritis with low acidity. The water effectively stimulates hydrochloric acid production, restoring the stomach's secretory function.
- Diabetes mellitus. It has been scientifically proven that "Essentuki No. 17" stimulates insulin production and positively influences carbohydrate metabolism.
- Liver and biliary tract disorders. The water acts as a choleretic agent, improving bile flow and normalizing its rheological properties.
- Metabolic disorders, gout, and obesity.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with predominant constipation. The water stimulates peristalsis and helps restore regular bowel movements.
Research indicates that this water is also recommended for therapeutic consumption in cases of kidney and urinary tract diseases, as well as for the treatment of chronic pancreatitis.
Essentuki Novaya: lightness and versatility
"Essentuki Novaya" is a unique water with low mineralization (7.7 g/L), often described as the "lightest" and "most neutral" of the Essentuki waters. Its composition is chloride-bicarbonate sodium-calcium, with elevated levels of sulfates and magnesium.
The key feature of this water is that it is a blend of two natural waters: a highly mineralized water from well No. 1-KMV-bis and a low-mineralization water from well No. 55. They are mixed in a 1:2 ratio. For this reason, "Essentuki Novaya" is not bottled—its therapeutic properties remain intact for only a short time after mixing, so it can only be sampled at the pump room.
Suitable for:
"Essentuki Novaya" is the ideal choice for those who:
- Want to drink water daily for preventive health and general well-being. It is the most versatile Essentuki water—"easy to drink, quenches thirst well, and can be consumed in any quantity."
- Have high stomach acidity. Unlike No. 17, "Novaya" does not stimulate hydrochloric acid production but gently normalizes the condition.
- Are recovering from physical exertion or want to maintain their water balance. Its mild taste and low mineralization make it pleasant for daily consumption.
You can try "Essentuki Novaya" at the pump room at 13 Lenina Street, as well as at the "Pyatitysyachnik" gallery. The water is served warmed to a comfortable temperature and is perfect for a first introduction to the resort's mineral waters.
The Key Difference: Which Water to Choose?
Simply put:
- Essentuki No. 4 is a milder, preventive water. It is suitable for a wide range of people with various digestive and metabolic disorders, as well as for general health improvement.
- Essentuki No. 17 is a more potent, therapeutic water that should be consumed strictly according to a doctor's orders. It is effective for specific, often serious conditions such as atrophic gastritis, diabetes, and pancreatitis.
- Essentuki Novaya is the lightest and most versatile water.
Important: All three waters have therapeutic properties and specific contraindications. They should be prescribed by a general practitioner or gastroenterologist after a review of your medical history and test results. Self-medication—particularly with "Essentuki No. 17"—can be unsafe.
More than just drinking: balneological potential
It is important to note that mineral waters from the Essentuki source are used for more than just internal consumption. Warm, carbon-dioxide-rich waters—similar in composition to "Essentuki No. 4" and "No. 17"—are also used for balneological treatments, such as therapeutic baths, showers, and other water-based therapies that help manage disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.
The "Park Shafran" sanatorium has developed comprehensive treatment programs that combine mineral water intake with other natural healing factors, such as therapeutic mud from Lake Tambukan, climatotherapy, and physiotherapy. This systemic approach is the key to effective treatment in the Caucasian Mineral Waters region.
How to Benefit from Mineral Waters at Park Shafran
At the Park Shafran sanatorium, we invite guests not merely to sample the famous water but to undergo a personalized course of mineral water therapy. Our physicians and gastroenterologists will help determine which water—Essentuki No. 4, Essentuki No. 17, or Essentuki Novaya—is best suited to your specific diagnosis and health condition.
Furthermore, the sanatorium’s location right next to the Resort Park turns the daily walk to the mineral water pump rooms into an easy and pleasant ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions About Essentuki Mineral Waters
Which water should I choose for preventive purposes?
For prevention, Essentuki No. 4 or Essentuki Novaya are most commonly recommended; they are milder and suitable for regular use in treatment courses.
Should the water be consumed before or after meals?
It depends on the treatment goal. Typically, for low stomach acidity, the water is consumed 20–30 minutes before a meal, whereas for normal or high acidity, it is taken 1.5–2 hours before eating. A doctor will determine the exact regimen for you.
Can I simply visit a pump room and drink the water?
Yes, Essentuki has numerous drinking galleries where you can sample water from the springs for free. However, to achieve the maximum therapeutic effect, it is important to follow the dosage and regimen prescribed by a doctor.
Are there any contraindications for these waters?
Yes. Consumption of mineral waters may be restricted in cases of certain acute illnesses or medical conditions. Be sure to consult a doctor before starting treatment.
If you want to do more than just relax—if you want to truly focus on your health—come to Park Shafran. We will help you select the right water, the right treatments, and the right approach to recovery. After all, scientific research confirms that the best results come not from one-off consumption, but from a full course of treatment that helps you feel healthy and energized for months to come.