Abstract:
A steam therapy equipment including a vessel for heating a mixture of water and organic materials, a compressor to inject pressurized air into the vessel producing pressurized steam. The pressurized steam is conducted into the equipment via one or more valves. The therapy equipment is formed from at least one panel and may include a supporting frame. The therapy equipment includes a temperature sensor to measure the temperature inside the therapy equipment when pressurized steam is admitted via the valves. A patient enters the equipment and is exposed to the pressurized steam, causing dilation of the skin pores of the patient, whereby toxins are removed from the patient. One or more applicators may conduct pressurized steam to specific portions of the body of the patient. The patient may be provided with a portion of the mixture to consume as part of the steam therapy treatment.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/178,519, filed 9 Jun. 2016, now pending (the &#39;519 application). The &#39;519 application is hereby incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
     a. Technical Field 
       [0002]    This invention relates to naturopathic steam therapy delivery equipment; a device that delivers organic/plant compounds dissolved in steam, via the pores in the human body, to aid detoxification through enhanced perspiration/sweating, for improving health and wellness. 
       b. Background Art 
       [0003]    This background description is set forth below for the purpose of providing context only. Therefore, any aspects of this background description, to the extent that it does not otherwise qualify as prior art, is neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the instant disclosure. 
         [0004]    The process of steam therapy as disclosed herein originated from the ancient African tribe known as the “Igbo” (the descendants of the kingdom of Judah in the Seth Region of West Africa), and is called “Ogwu Okpukpu” in the Igbo language. 
         [0005]    In the ancient process, a person being treated (i.e., a patient), was made to sit on a small log of wood, with the person&#39;s legs astride (i.e., with a leg on either side of), the log. A small pot containing a boiled plant concoction was then placed in between the patient&#39;s legs, adjacent to the small log. A blanket was then draped over the patient, covering the patient completely, while the patient was made to lean forward, over the small pot. The patient would then be exposed to the steam emanating from the small pot and trapped beneath the blanket. 
         [0006]    However, this ancient process has several drawbacks. The ancient process does not fully dilate the patient&#39;s skin pores nor does it deliver a sufficient amount of steam containing the organic compounds (i.e., the boiled plant concoction), to the patient&#39;s body. As a result, the ancient process has limited detoxifying effect. 
         [0007]    What is needed then is a steam therapy equipment, or apparatus, that is capable of fully dilating a patient&#39;s skin pores to induce measured and controllable perspiration, and can also deliver sufficient amount of steam containing organic compounds to the patient&#39;s body, thereby flushing (via perspiration) the patient&#39;s body of toxins. The steam therapy equipment also includes at least one special mechanism, or an apparatus, for applying enhanced and/or limited steam (and heat) delivery to a desired, targeted portion of the patient&#39;s body. 
         [0008]    The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate the present field and should not be taken as a disavowal of claim scope. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0009]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include placing at least one organic plant compound in a vessel (e.g., pot, container) adding water to the vessel, mixing the at least one organic plant compound with the water, heating the at least one organic compound and the water to produce steam, forcing air into the vessel via a compressor to pressurize the steam, piping the pressurized steam into a steam therapy equipment, wherein the therapy equipment comprises equipment including at least one wall, an access door, a temperature control system, a communication system, at least one shutoff valve, a fluid drain, placing a patient within the therapy equipment, and exposing the patient to the pressurized steam. 
         [0010]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include heating the air within the equipment via the pressurized steam and increasing the humidity of the air within the equipment via the pressurized steam. 
         [0011]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include causing the pores of the skin of the patient to dilate via the pressurized steam and causing the pressurized steam to be absorbed into the skin and/or bloodstream of the patient. 
         [0012]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include inducing perspiration in the patient and detoxifying the patient via the perspiration. 
         [0013]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include attaching a steam applicator to the steam therapy equipment via a flexible adapter to reduce and/or receive the pressurized steam, placing the steam applicator in contact with a portion of the body of the patient, and concentrating the pressurized steam on the portion of the body via the steam applicator for a predetermined period of time. 
         [0014]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include removing the patient from the therapy equipment for a predetermined period. The flexible adapter is attached to the steam applicator, and the applicator is strapped on the patient to receive the pressurized steam via the steam therapy equipment for a predetermined period of time. 
         [0015]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include providing the patient with the mixture of the at least one organic plant compound and the water to be consumed by the patient. 
         [0016]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include an organic plant compound including a combination selected from: a) neem leaves; b) pawpaw leaves; c) guava leaves; d) orange leaves; e) soursop leaves, and f) black walnut bark. 
         [0017]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include an organic plant compound including a combination selected from: a) horse radish leaves; b) avocado leaves; c) cherry leaves; d) guava leaves; and e) turmeric root. 
         [0018]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include an organic plant compound including a combination selected from: a) licorice root; b) lemon peel; c) almond leaves; d) chicory; e) carrot; f) spinach leaves; g) coconut; h) bilberry; and i) Indian gooseberry. 
         [0019]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include an organic plant compound including a combination selected from: a) apple leaves; b) mango leaves; c) beet root; d) spinach leaves; and e) carrot. 
         [0020]    In an embodiment, a system for applying steam to the human body may include a steam generator, a compressor in fluid communication with the steam generator, a therapy equipment in fluid communication via at least one valve with the steam generator and the compressor. 
         [0021]    In an embodiment, a system for applying steam to the human body may include at least one wall, wherein the at least one wall is supported by a frame, a door, a temperature control system, a communications system, and a drain. 
         [0022]    In an embodiment, a system for applying steam to the human body may include at least one steam applicator in fluid communication with the steam generator and the compressor via a flexible adapter. 
         [0023]    In an embodiment, a system for applying steam to the human body may include at least one steam applicator that includes one or more contours to sealingly engage at least a portion of the outer surface of a human body. 
         [0024]    In an embodiment, a system for applying steam to the human body may include at least one steam applicator that includes a plurality of vent holes. 
         [0025]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include placing at least one organic plant compound in a vessel, adding water to the vessel, mixing the at least one organic plant compound with the water, heating the at least one organic compound and the water to produce steam, forcing air into the vessel via a compressor to pressurize the steam, piping the pressurized steam into a steam therapy equipment, wherein the therapy equipment comprises at least one steam applicator, and exposing the patient to the pressurized steam via the at least one steam applicator. 
         [0026]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include attaching a steam applicator to the steam therapy equipment via a flexible adapter to reduce the pressurized steam, placing the steam applicator in contact with a portion of the body of the patient, and concentrating the pressurized steam on the portion of the body via the steam applicator for a predetermined period of time. 
         [0027]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include providing the patient with the mixture of the at least one organic plant compound and the water to be consumed by the patient. 
         [0028]    In an embodiment, a method for applying steam to the human body may include sealingly engaging the at least one steam applicator against at least a portion of the outer surface of a human body. 
         [0029]    The foregoing and other aspects, features, details, utilities, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from reading the following description and claims, and from reviewing the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0030]      FIG. 1  is a front view generally illustrating an embodiment of a steam therapy equipment, in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. 
           [0031]      FIG. 2  is a rear view generally illustrating an embodiment of a steam therapy equipment, in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. 
           [0032]      FIG. 3A  is a left side view generally illustrating an embodiment of a steam therapy equipment, in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. 
           [0033]      FIG. 3B  is a right side view generally illustrating an embodiment of a steam therapy equipment, in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. 
           [0034]      FIG. 4  is a sectional view of embodiments of a steam generator and compressor associated with a steam therapy equipment, in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. 
           [0035]      FIG. 5  is a sectional view generally illustrating an embodiment of a steam therapy equipment, in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. 
           [0036]      FIG. 6A  is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a steam funnel applicator associated with a steam therapy equipment, in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. 
           [0037]      FIG. 6B  is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a steam mask applicator associated with a steam therapy equipment, in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. 
           [0038]      FIG. 6C  is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a steam goggle applicator associated with a steam therapy equipment, in accordance with teachings of the present disclosure. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0039]    Various embodiments are described herein to various apparatuses, systems, and/or methods. Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments, the scope of which is defined solely by the appended claims. 
         [0040]    Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” or “an embodiment,” or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” or “in an embodiment,” or the like, in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with the features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments without limitation given that such combination is not illogical or non-functional. 
         [0041]    Before proceeding to a detailed description of a steam therapy equipment, an overview description of such an apparatus will first be described. The initial description will describe in general how a patient interacts with the apparatus, in both setup and in executing the steam therapy treatment in order to obtain detoxification and other health benefits. This document will also describe various embodiments for implementing the apparatus, as well as variations. 
         [0042]    Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals are used to identify identical or similar components in the various views,  FIGS. 1, 2, 3A-3B, 4, and 5  are diagrammatic views of a therapy equipment system/apparatus  10  in an exemplary environment. As described in the Background, a perimeter frame  12  supports one or more panels  14  to enclose a space. Frame  12  may be constructed of materials such as steel, aluminum, or wood formed in a tubular shape, though other shapes are also to be considered (e.g. box, square, flat). Frame  12  may be configured into a plurality of individual elements that may join to one or more other elements of frame  12 . Frame  12  may include attachments means for securing one or more panels  14  to frame  12 , such as, but not limited to, bolts, rivets, and/or screws. Panel  14  may be constructed of one or more layers, including but not limited to, insulating layers. Panel  14  may be configured such that one or more insulating layers are located between an outer layer and an inner layer of panel  14 . For example and without limitation, the outer layer and/or inner layer of panel  14  may be constructed of aluminum, stainless steel, and/or wood, or a combination thereof. Panel  14  may include attachment points that may engage frame  12 , such as threaded holes, tabs, or other mechanical fastening and/or joining means. At least one panel  14  may include a window  16 , which may be configured to allow a patient within the therapy equipment  10  to see out and/or a technician/operator to see the patient within the therapy equipment  10 . Window  16  may be constructed of glass and/or a plastic material (e.g., polycarbonate). Window  16  may be securely installed within panel  14  via a gasket and/or mounting frame. 
         [0043]    In embodiments, hinges  18  may be configured to permit one panel  14  to rotate about another panel  14 . For example and without limitation, one or more hinges  18  may be configured at the top of therapy equipment  10 , to permit a panel  14  to rotate upward, allowing a patient  34  access to the interior of therapy equipment  10 . It should be understood that one or more hinges  18  may be configured on one or more panels  14  to permit access to the interior of therapy equipment  10 . For example, hinges  18  may be configured on one or more sides to enable access to one or more sides of therapy equipment  10 . Panels  14  that include hinges  18  may also include sealing devices (e.g., gaskets), to prevent steam and/or water from exiting therapy equipment  10 . 
         [0044]    In embodiments, a wall  20  may be positioned between therapy equipment  10  and steam generator  22 . Wall  20  may be configured to isolate therapy equipment  10  from the noise and/or heat produced by steam generator  22 . Wall  20  may include one or more passages through which steam pipe  28  may pass. In embodiments, therapy equipment  10  may be in close proximity to wall  20 . In embodiments, wall  20  may be in contact with therapy equipment  10  such that wall  20  may provide a degree of structural support to therapy equipment  10 . 
         [0045]    In embodiments, steam generator  22  may include a pot  24  and a compressor  26 . Pot  24  may be configured to receive water and/or organic plant materials (e.g., leaves and/or bark). Pot  24  may include a heat source such that pot  24  may heat water and organic plant materials. Pot  24  may be controlled by a separate control system or be connected to the temperature control system  32  of therapy equipment  10 . Pot  24  may include a fluid connection (e.g., pipe, tube), to compressor  26 . Compressor  26  may be configured to pressurize air and provide the pressurized air to the pot  24  via the fluid connection. As the water and organic plant material mixture is heated in pot  24 , the addition of the pressurized air from compressor  26  results in pressurized steam. The pressurized steam is utilized by therapy equipment  10 . 
         [0046]    In embodiments, pressurized steam from steam generator  22  may be conducted via piping  28  to one or more valves  30  disposed on therapy equipment  10 . In embodiments, piping  28  may extend through one or more walls  20  that may be configured to isolate steam generator  22  from therapy equipment  10 . In embodiments, piping  28  may include a manifold that may distribute pressurized steam about the surfaces of therapy equipment  10 . For example, a manifold may be positioned on the top (e.g., roof) of therapy equipment  10  that receives pressurized steam from the steam generator  22 . A plurality of piping  22  may extend from the manifold to various locations on therapy equipment  10 . For example and without limitation, a plurality of piping  22  may extend to various locations on the top of therapy equipment  10 . A valve  30  may be configured with each section of piping that is connected to (e.g., passes through) the interior of therapy equipment  10 . In this configuration, pressurized steam may be directed into the equipment from a plurality of locations, or one location. In embodiments, a flexible adapter  56  may be connected to piping  28  and/or may be configured to receive (e.g., be connected to), one or more steam applicators  44 ,  46 , and  48 , which will be discussed in further detail below (and shown in  FIGS. 6A-6C ). 
         [0047]    In embodiments, therapy equipment  10  may include a temperature sensor  32 . Temperature sensor  32  may be connected to (e.g., installed on), therapy equipment  10 , such as on one or more panels  14  (e.g., top, side). In embodiments, temperature sensor  32  may include additional sensors and/or devices (e.g., pressure sensor, humidity sensor, timing device). 
         [0048]    In embodiments, patient  34  may enter a therapy equipment  10  via first panel  14  connected to a second panel  14  via hinges  18 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , front panel  14 , including window  16 , is attached to the top panel  14  via hinges  18 . In order to access the interior of therapy equipment  10 , a handle  36  (e.g., lever, latch), may be operated (e.g., turned), enabling patient  34  and/or a technician/attendant to open therapy equipment  10  and gain access to the interior. Patient  34  may recline (e.g., lay down), inside therapy equipment  10  on bottom panel  14 . Bottom panel  14  may include comfort features (e.g., padding), that patient  34  may lay upon. 
         [0049]    In embodiments, therapy equipment  10  may include one or more handles  36 . Handles  36  may be configured to permit a panel  14  of therapy equipment to selectively open against one or more additional panels  14  via hinges  18 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , handle  36  is positioned at the edge of the front panel  14  of therapy equipment  10 . In that position, handle  36  may operate against the bottom (i.e., floor), panel  14  of therapy equipment  10 . In embodiments, handle  36  may be configured to permit a technician or operator to lift front panel  14 , providing an opening to the interior to therapy equipment  10 . Hinges  18  permit front panel  14  rotate upward, in this embodiment. In embodiments, handle  36  may include a latching mechanism to securely close front panel  14  against other panels  14  (e.g., bottom, top, left and right side), of therapy equipment  10  (e.g., bottom, top, left and right side). 
         [0050]    In embodiments, a therapy equipment  10  may include a communication device  38 . Communication device  38  may be disposed within therapy equipment  10  (as shown in  FIG. 5 ). Communication device  38  permits a patient  34  within therapy equipment  10  to communicate with a technician or an operator (i.e., an attendant), outside of therapy equipment  10 , such as during a treatment session. Communication device  38  may include a microphone, a speaker, a video camera, and/or a video display to permit patient  34  to communicate with the other person outside of therapy equipment  10 . For example, patient  34  may choose to communicate with the other person regarding the temperature inside therapy equipment  10  (e.g., too hot inside). 
         [0051]    In embodiments, a therapy equipment  10  may include a drain  40 . Drain  40  may be configured on a bottom (i.e., floor), panel  14 . Bottom panel  14  may be configured with a slope (i.e., angle), such that water and/or condensation may be directed toward drain  40 . Drain  40  may be located, for example, in a corner of bottom panel  14 , as shown in  FIG. 5 . In embodiments, drain  40  may be located in the center of bottom panel  14 . It should be understood that drain  40  may be positioned in a number of locations within therapy equipment  10  to permit water and/or condensation to leave the interior of therapy equipment  10 . 
         [0052]    In embodiments, a therapy equipment  10  may include a reservoir  42 . Reservoir  42  may be in fluid communication with a drain  40 . In embodiments, reservoir  42  may be located (e.g., mounted to), a panel  14  of therapy equipment  10 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 5 , reservoir  42  is mounted beneath bottom panel  14  and in fluid communication with drain  40 , such that water and/or condensation present in therapy equipment  10  may exit therapy equipment  10  via drain  40  and be collected in reservoir  42 . In embodiments, reservoir  42  may be detachable (i.e., removable), from therapy equipment to permit a technician or an operator (i.e., an attendant), to empty reservoir  42 . In embodiments, reservoir  42  may include a conduit (not shown) that may be in fluid communication with a drainage system (e.g., floor drain). 
         [0053]    Referring now to  FIG. 6A , a funnel steam applicator  44  for use with a therapy equipment  10  is shown. In embodiments, funnel steam applicator  44  may be placed in contact with a patient  34  via a strap  50 . Strap  50  may be attached to engage funnel steam applicator  44 , such as though slots  54 . In order to concentrate pressurized steam from therapy equipment  10 , an attendant or technician may secure funnel steam applicator  44  to a portion of the body of patient  34  (here, the torso of patient  34 ) via the strap  50 . Funnel steam applicator  44  may be in fluid communication with therapy equipment  10 , such that pressurized steam from steam generator  22 , via therapy equipment  10 , may be conducted through flexible adapter  56  (as also shown in  FIG. 5 ), to funnel steam applicator and in contact with the torso of patient  34 . In embodiments, funnel steam applicator  44  may include a plurality of vent holes  52  that are configured to allow for pressurized steam to escape and have a regulating effect on the pressurized steam applied to the torso of patient  34 . In embodiments, patient  34  may be exposed to pressurized steam via the funnel steam applicator  44  in temperature ranging from 90-115 F (32-46 C). 
         [0054]    Referring now to  FIG. 6B , a mask steam applicator  46  for use with a therapy equipment  10  is shown. In embodiments, mask steam applicator  46  may be placed in contact with a patient  34  via a strap  50 . Strap  50  may be attached to engage mask steam applicator  46 , such as though slots  54 . In order to concentrate pressurized steam from therapy equipment  10 , an attendant or technician may secure mask steam applicator  46  to a portion of the body of patient  34  (here, the face of patient  34 ), via the strap  50 . Mask steam applicator  46  may be in fluid communication with therapy equipment  10 , such that pressurized steam from steam generator  22 , via therapy equipment  10 , may be conducted through piping  28  and/or flexible adapter  56  (as also shown in  FIG. 5 ), to mask steam applicator and in contact with the face of patient  34 . In embodiments, mask steam applicator  46  may include a plurality of vent holes  52  that are configured to allow for pressurized steam to escape and have a regulating effect on the pressurized steam applied to the face of patient  34 . In embodiments, patient  34  may be exposed to pressurized steam via the mask steam applicator  46  in temperature ranging from 90-115 F (32-46 C). 
         [0055]    Referring now to  FIG. 6C , a goggle steam applicator  48  for use with a therapy equipment  10  is shown. In embodiments, mask steam applicator  48  may be placed in contact with a patient  34  via a strap  50 . Strap  50  may be attached to engage goggle steam applicator  48 , such as though slots  54 . In order to concentrate pressurized steam from therapy equipment  10 , an attendant or technician may secure mask steam applicator  48  to a portion of the body of patient  34  (here, the eyes of patient  34 ), via the strap  50 . Goggle steam applicator  48  may be in fluid communication with therapy equipment  10 , such that pressurized steam from steam generator  22 , via therapy equipment  10 , may be conducted through piping  28  and/or flexible adapter  56  (as also shown in  FIG. 5 ), to goggle steam applicator and in contact with the face of patient  34 . In embodiments, goggle steam applicator  48  may include a plurality of vent holes  52  that are configured to allow for pressurized steam to escape and have a regulating effect on the pressurized steam applied to the eyes of patient  34 . In embodiments, patient  34  may be exposed to pressurized steam via the goggle steam applicator  48  in temperature ranging from 90-105 F (32-40 C). 
         [0056]    The therapy equipment  10  is capable of delivering pressurized steam, saturated with organic and/or plant compounds at regulated temperatures and in sufficient quantity to dilate the pores of the skin of a patient  34  by inducing perspiration. The perspiration of patient  34  permits the body of patient  34  to rid itself of toxin via the dilated skin pores. 
         [0057]    The steam generator  22 , including a pot  24  and a compressor  26 , heat water and an organic/plant compound mixture and pressurize the resultant steam, respectively. The pressurized steam from steam generator  22  is conducted to the therapy equipment  10  via piping  28  and may include one or more valves  30 . The piping  28  may be constructed of heat resistant and/or insulative materials in order to maintain the steam as it is conducted via the piping  28  to the therapy equipment  10 . As a result, piping  28  may be resistant to the formation of condensation due to the lower temperature surrounding the piping  28 . 
         [0058]    The therapy equipment  10  may be of a square or rectangular shape, in order to receive a patient  34  inside. In embodiments, therapy equipment  10  may be constructed in other shapes and/or sizes, such a size sufficient to accommodate more than one patient at a time. The therapy equipment  10  described herein is merely exemplary and not limiting. Patient  34  enters the therapy equipment  10  via a panel  14  that pivots about one or more hinges  18 . As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , for example, the front panel  14  may pivot upward to allow patient  34  to enter the therapy equipment  10 . In embodiments, front panel  14  may be configured to pivot to a side via hinges  18 . In embodiments, a side, top or bottom panel  14  may also be configured to pivot about one or more other panels  14  via hinges  18 , to permit patient  34  to enter the therapy equipment  10 . Panels  14  may be supported and/or joined together at least in part by a frame  12 . Frame  12 , which may be constructed of a suitable strong material (e.g., metal, stainless steel, aluminum, and/or wood, or a combination thereof), may engage one or more panels  14 . In embodiments, panels  14  may be joined to each other forming a therapy equipment  10  and placed within frame  12 . In embodiments, panels  14  may be joined to elements of frame  12  and together form a therapy equipment  10 . In embodiments, frame  12  and panels  14  may be integrated, at least partially. 
         [0059]    Therapy equipment  10  may include one or more windows  16 . Once a patient  34  enters the therapy equipment  10 , the windows  16  allow the patient  34  to communicate with the therapy equipment operator/technician (not shown). Patient  34  may then lie down inside therapy equipment  10 , on the bottom panel  14 . Bottom panel  14  may include padding and/or cushions to support patient  34  within the therapy equipment  10 . 
         [0060]    Pressurized steam from the steam generator  22  is conducted via piping  28  into the therapy equipment  10  and is regulated by a plurality of valves  30 . The valves  30  may be opened or closed by the operator/technician to regulate the amount of pressurized steam entering the therapy equipment  10  as well as the location of the pressurized steam entering the therapy equipment  10 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 1, 2 and 5 . Temperature sensor  32  displays the current temperature of the pressurized steam within the therapy equipment  10  for the operator/technician to monitor and adjust the operation of steam generator  22  as needed. 
         [0061]    Depending upon the type of ailment and the preferred/ideal treatment, a steam generator  22  of a therapy equipment  10  is filled with water and organic/plant material and heated to produce steam, which is then conducted via piping  28  to the interior of therapy equipment  10 . Once the temperature within the equipment (i.e., chamber), reaches approximately 115 degrees F. (46 degrees C.), a patient  34  enters the therapy equipment  10  via the hinged panel  14 , and lays down inside the therapy equipment  10 . The hinged panel  14  is then closed by the operator/technician and the pressurized steam continues to fill the interior of therapy equipment  10 . 
         [0062]    Patient  34  may be oriented inside therapy equipment  10  such that the head of patient  34  is positioned away from a drain  40  inside therapy equipment  10 . As patient  34  is exposed to the pressurized steam in the therapy equipment  10 , the patient  34  begins to perspire (i.e., sweat). Additionally, pressurized steam may also condensate into water within the therapy equipment  10 , which due to the configuration of the bottom panel  14 , causes the liquid water to collect at drain  40 , and away from patient  34 . In embodiments, a grate or similar device (not shown) may be placed on the interior bottom of the therapy equipment  10 , upon which padding (not shown) for support of the patient  34  is installed. The grate may be configured to position the padding above the interior surface of the bottom panel  14  to promote the movement of liquid water within the therapy equipment to the drain  40 . 
         [0063]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , an embodiment of a steam generator  22  of a therapy equipment  10  is shown. Steam generator  22  includes a pot  24  for mixing and heating water and a plant/organic mixture and a compressor  26 . Piping  28  fluidly joins pot  24  and compressor  26  such that compressed air may enter pot  24 . In embodiments, pot  24  may include a lid with two holes. Through the first hole piping  28  is connected that leads to therapy equipment  10  and the second hole connects piping  28  to compressor  26 . When pot  24  is heated (e.g., a heat source is applied), and compressor  26  forces air into the now heated pot  24 , pressurized steam is forced out of pot  24  through piping  28  to the therapy equipment  10 . 
         [0064]    In embodiments, a therapy equipment  10  according to the present disclosure is operated as follows. A blend of plant and organic materials (e.g., leaves, bark), is heated in a pot  24  with purified water, dissolving the plant and organic materials in the water, which is turned into steam via heating. A compressor  26  pressurizes the steam and piping  28  conducts the pressurized steam to the therapy equipment  10 . A patient  34  inside the therapy equipment  10  may be exposed to the pressurized steam for a predetermined time (e.g., 10-45 minutes). It should be understood that other exposure times are contemplated, and the examples provided are not limiting. In embodiments, the patient  34  may be given some of the water and plant/organic heated mixture by the operator/attendant to drink outside of the therapy equipment  10 . 
         [0065]    In embodiments, pressurized steam from a steam generator  22  of a therapy equipment  10  may be conducted via flexible adapter  56  to one or more applicators  44 ,  46 , and  48  (as shown in  FIGS. 6A-6C ) to treat areas such as respiratory, eye, ear, nose and/or throat. For treatment using the applicators  44 ,  46 , and  48 , a patient  34  may be seated outside the therapy equipment  10  and the applicators  44 ,  46 , and  48  are placed in direct contact with a portion of the body of patient  34  for a predetermined period of time. Patient  34  may receive more than one type of treatment via applicators  44 ,  46 , and  48 , such as respiratory, eye, ear, nose, and throat treatment. 
         [0066]    In embodiments, a patient  34  may be treated by a therapy equipment  10  three times a week for a period of 15-45 minutes each. More or less treatment frequencies and durations are also contemplated; the embodiments provided are merely exemplary. In embodiments, the whole body of patient  34  may be treated within therapy equipment  10 , or portions of the body of patient  34  may be treated, such as the eyes of the patient  34  for refractive errors of the eye, respiratory, ear, nose and throat disorders; the torso/waist and/or joint of the patient  34  for inflammation. 
         [0067]    In embodiments, the water and plant/organic mixture may take into consideration the health condition and/or physical state of a patient  34 . For example, the following items may be used to treat the following afflictions: 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 a) Neem leaves (6 parts by weight). 
                 For treating afflictions 
               
               
                 b) Pawpaw leaves (4 parts by weight). 
                 including but not  
               
               
                 c) Guava leaves (4 parts by weight). 
                 limited to: malaria,  
               
               
                 d) Orange leaves (4 parts by weight). 
                 dengue fevers,  
               
               
                 Soursop leaves (4 parts by weight). 
                 and detoxification. 
               
               
                 Black walnut bark (2 parts by weight). 
                   
               
               
                 a) Horse radish leaves (6 parts by weight). 
                 Used as a detoxifying  
               
               
                 b) Avocado leaves (2 parts by weight). 
                 agent/diuretic in cases  
               
               
                 c) Cherry leaves (1.5 parts by weight). 
                 of edema and for  
               
               
                 d) Guava leaves (5 parts by weight). 
                 treatment of inflammation. 
               
               
                 e) Turmeric root (2 parts by weight). 
                   
               
               
                 a) Licorice root (1 part by weight). 
                 For treatment of  
               
               
                 b) Lemon peel (1 part by weight). 
                 refractive errors of the  
               
               
                 c) Almond leaves (1 part by weight). 
                 eyes. 
               
               
                 d) Chicory (1 part by weight). 
                   
               
               
                 e) Carrot (2 parts by weight). 
                   
               
               
                 f) Spinach leaves (1 part by weight). 
                   
               
               
                 g) Coconut (0.5 parts by weight). 
                   
               
               
                 h) Bilberry (1 part by weight). 
                   
               
               
                 i) Indian gooseberry (1 part by weight). 
                   
               
               
                 a) Apple leaves (4 parts by weight). 
                 For treatment of  
               
               
                 b) Mango leaves (2.5 parts by weight). 
                 hypertension and/or  
               
               
                 c) Beets root (4 parts by weight). 
                 vascular problems. 
               
               
                 d) Spinach leaves (4 parts by weight). 
                   
               
               
                 e) Carrot (2 parts by weight). 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0068]    The above mixtures and formulations of plants and organic matter are used to ensure that the treatment of the therapy equipment  10  is effective. The specific treatment process described herein is developed and tested to enhance the ancient “Igbo” art of “Ogwu Okpukpu”, a naturopathic treatment for different forms of toxin-induced ailments and/or afflictions and the complications they bring about. 
         [0069]    Although only certain embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. All directional references (e.g., plus, minus, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader&#39;s understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of embodiments. Joinder references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, joinder references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected/coupled and in fixed relation to each other. Additionally, the terms “electrically connected” and “in communication” are meant to be construed broadly to encompass both wired and wireless connections and communications. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the invention as defined in the appended claims. 
         [0070]    Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material. 
         [0071]    While one or more particular embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood by those of skill in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present teachings.