Earlier studies have shown that Crohn's disease patients have a higher incidence of allergic reaction to baker's yeast than non-Crohn's sufferers. The elimination of baker's yeast may be helpful to Crohn's sufferers. It is often helpful in providing pain relief and is used in skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Heat from warm paraffin penetrates the skin to warm underlying muscles and joints, and is soothing in arthritis, bursitis, scar tissue, tendinitis, sore muscles and sports injuries. Because paraffin molds to the shape of the body it may be applied to any body part.
Some precautions are necessary however.
First, paraffin is flammable. Paraffin should not be applied over open wounds or skin infections. The authors of this article caution against the use of paraffin in patients suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, or varicose veins. They also state that paraffin should not be applied directly over the area of the heart. While paraffin applications are in place the therapist should watch for unusual redness of the skin, excessive sweating, indications of dehydration, or change in respiratory pattern.