Traditional beliefs The sulfur is used to cure stomach and skin ailments. The thick mud and bubbling water is believed to contain chemicals which are capable of curing all ailments. People from different parts of SA come here to seek healing, it is believed that the pink water helps with cleansing and if you have skin problems bathing with this water will help with the condition. The name “Isinuka”, means “place of smell”, which refers to the odour of the sulfur which diffuses from the springs. This name was given by the Mpondo people of the Eastern Cape who regard this site as a sacred area. The springs are also visited by thousands of tourists who seek relief from various ailments yearly. The white soil clay from the springs is used for cosmetic and dermatological applications by the people of Isinuka, Port St Johns and the surrounding towns in Pondoland of the Eastern Cape province. The presence of sulfur, copper and zinc may play a significant role in their antibacterial and antifungal properties. The clays are particularly used by local women to protect their skin from the ultra violet rays. The presence of zinc oxide and TiO2 are likely responsible for protection against the sun. The minor presence of arsenic also aids in healing properties however, arsenic is a human carcinogen and may be extremely toxic at high concentrations