“Discover how Ethiopia’s ancient ‘Weyba Tis’ sauna therapy is making waves in the bustling city of Addis Ababa, offering a unique blend of beauty and healing to a new generation”

In the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s bustling capital, an age-old wellness tradition is experiencing a modern resurgence. Saba Yilma, her face smeared with honey and hair glistening with butter, sits enveloped in a heavy leather cloak, gently fanning the fragrant smoke emanating from smoldering twigs and herbs beneath her. This is “Weyba Tis,” a traditional Ethiopian sauna therapy that has captivated a growing number of young urbanites seeking both beauty and relief from various ailments.

Saba, in her late 20s, is among the many who have embraced this ancient practice. After a session at the popular Fana Weyba spa, she shared her experience: “I had a slight pain in my thighs and lower back. Now, I feel completely relieved.”

The spa, owned by Fana Gebremedhin, has become a haven for modern Ethiopian women. Fana, who introduced the practice to Addis Ababa over two decades ago from her hometown of Raya in the Tigray region, is now preparing to open her third spa in the city. “When I first started, it was mostly older women who sought this treatment,” Fana recalls. “Today, the majority of our clients are young, modern women.”

While scientific research on the medicinal properties of the Weyba tree, the primary fuel for the therapy, is still in its early stages, there is promising evidence. A study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine last year suggested that Weyba extract might help manage immune-related disorders in animals. However, the potential benefits of its smoke for humans remain unexplored.

Despite the need for further studies, many Ethiopians swear by the therapeutic effects of Weyba Tis. “We have proven to ourselves that it can cure hip and joint pain, headaches, and skin problems,” says Workinesh Birru, Ethiopia’s state minister of culture.

For Mistir Desalegn, who indulges in the therapy at least once a week when she’s in the capital, the benefits are clear. “The feeling I have after using Weyba Tis is incredible,” she says. “My face shines with a healthy glow.”

As more young people in Ethiopia’s urban centers turn to traditional practices like Weyba Tis, this ancient therapy is not only preserving cultural heritage but also adapting to the demands of a modern lifestyle.