The Isinuka Mud Caves and Sulphur Pools are located next to the Isinuka village which is located in OR Tambo District Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. 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. Uses 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. Description The springs are located in a densely forested region a few kilometers from Port St John's. In order to reach the pure spring water, the people need to climb large rocks and use a strong fig tree as an improvised staircase. The Isinuka cave is below a rock outcrop and water drips from the roof of the cave onto a slippery white clayey sedimentary material which is the material used for the treatment of skin diseases such as acne. The most popular pond like spring (which is about 3 square meters) is located above the rock outcrop. The spring emits a foul smelling hydrogen sulfide odor. The water is turbid and dark grey in colour. Mineralogical and biochemical properties Analytical sample studies have been done using X-ray diffraction techniques. The pH range of samples range between 7.94 and 10.05 which indicates alkaline clay. The pH of normal human skin ranges between 5.4 and 5.9, this variability brings into the question the viability of using these clays to treat acne as highly alkaline substances often have an adverse effect on the skin when applied without premedication or neutralization. Additionally, Cutibacterium acnes, bacteria which play a role in the development of acne, thrives on skin with high alkalinity. Therefore, the continuous