By Ottawa Citizen, February 10, 2017
In celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday, the Citizen is rolling out one fact each day for 150 days until July 1, highlighting the odd, the fascinating and the important bits of Ottawa history you might not know about.
Carlsbad Springs, located about 20 kilometres southeast in rural Ottawa, was known by the name “Cathartic” in the 1860s because of the supposed healing qualities of its waters. Guests came to Cathartic on Russell Road to “take the waters” for illnesses or conditions such as rheumatism and digestive disorders. Nearby hotels also offered spa therapy.
http://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/capital-facts-the-mysterious-healing-qualities-of-water-in-carlsbad-springs