From Priessnitz to HydroCure: The Story of the Wraps
On this page you’ll find the most important details about the history and development of Priessnitz wraps. For those interested in more in-depth information, we also offer a downloadable book by Vincenz Priessnitz.
Vincenz Priessnitz
An endless source of inspiration in natural healing — in today’s words we might call him the guru of hydrotherapy and the father of modern natural medicine — that was Vincenz Priessnitz. He attracted not only local people to Jeseník, but also European nobility, artists, and doctors from across the continent. Thanks to him, the small settlement of Gräfenberk above Jeseník became known throughout the world.
Born on 4 October 1799 and passing on 28 November 1851, Priessnitz pioneered the use of clean mountain water, fresh air, and therapeutic work as medicine. After curing himself with spring water following a near-fatal accident, he went on to establish a spa that welcomed patients from across Europe and overseas in search of restored health.
Quote by Vincenz Priessnitz
“Later, when I saw on many occasions that wounded animals seek water and bathe in it, I thought that it must do the same for humans.”
Sebastian Kneipp
The Bavarian natural healer and pastor Sebastian Kneipp (1821–1897) was a student and close friend of Vincenz Priessnitz. As a parish priest, he recorded his discoveries in two influential books: Water Healing and How to Live. Although written more than a century ago, his advice remains strikingly relevant and timeless today.
Quote by Sebastian Kneipp
“The water bestowed upon us by our Creator and the choice herbs of the plant kingdom do the essentials — cure disease and keep the body healthy.”
The Journey of HydroCure Wraps
As a mum of two, I’ve always relied on the Priessnitz wrap – a simple cloth therapy passed down from my mum and grandmother – to comfort my girls whenever they were unwell. For generations, it’s been a trusted, natural remedy in our family, bringing relief for sore throats, chest colds, or tired joints.
When I discovered that my friend Martina had invented a modern, practical version of the traditional Priessnitz wrap in the Czech Republic, I was genuinely excited. It was everything I had once wished for when my children were younger – easier to use, washable, and beautifully made.
But when I looked for it here in the UK, I realised it simply didn’t exist. That was the turning point: if I couldn’t find it for my family, I would make sure other families could.
I founded HydroCure Wraps with the dream of bringing this gentle, natural therapy to homes, pharmacies, and wellness spaces across the UK. Inspired by the legacy of Vincenz Priessnitz, the pioneer of hydrotherapy, and fuelled by my own experience as a mother, HydroCure Wraps is more than just a product – it’s a continuation of a story that began over 200 years ago, now reimagined for today’s world.
This is not about illness alone. It’s about mutual care, sharing, and healing through nature. By joining me on this journey, you are helping to revive a world-renowned method and introduce it to a new generation.
Let’s bring HydroCure Wraps to the UK together.
Philosophy
All life on earth is closely connected with water. It forms a vital part of living matter and makes up around 45–70% of the human body. Even the earliest stage of life unfolds in the amniotic fluid of the mother’s womb, where water protects and provides the perfect conditions for development.
Along with air and sunlight, water is one of the essential conditions for existence. While energy from nutrients is crucial, and minerals and other biologically active substances are equally vital, the body also depends on a constant supply of water. Beyond nutrition, water plays an important role in hygiene — not only cleansing the body but also maintaining health in the broadest sense, including the treatment and prevention of disease.
“Experience the natural healing power of Priessnitz wraps — now available in the UK through HydroCure Wraps.”
If you are interested in learning more about the origins and development of this unique healing modality,
download Vincenzo Priessnitz’s book or read the following blog articles.