I also spent some time evaluating the new mineral revitalization water purification systems.  Here's what I learned.

Throughout history, people have believed that mineral water benefits the health of the human body in many different ways.

 Health spas, resort towns and entire cities were built around hot springs and mineral-rich wells.

The history of mineral revitalization water purification systems is not so long.

 The original idea began due to the need to re-mineralize after desalination by major treatment plants.

Drinking de-mineralized or distilled is bad for your digestive system and may lead to nutritional deficiencies.

 Several different studies have shown this to be true. 

Others have shown that a balanced trace-mineral content has antioxidant affects within the human body.

So, when it comes to something to drink, there are true mineral water benefits, but do you need to buy an expensive system. 

The phrase mineral revitalization water purification systems may apply to a number of different units on the market today. 

Some are worth the investment, but others are probably a waste.

First, there are the kinds that use either reverse osmosis or other methods to remove all of the naturally occurring trace minerals. 

As a second step, they try to "revitalize" it by running it over "rare stones" or by some other method.

Well, what occurs in nature is great. 

Sometimes, the content may be too high and cause "hard-water" problems. 

But, generally, all of the mineral water benefits to human health may be obtained by drinking from a system that uses an ion exchange stage to "balance" the content, not remove it all together, not to "revitalize" it or but simply to balance it.

In that way, the water is softened, but still healthy for human consumption.  Plus, the taste is better than what you get from some of those other units.

Supposedly, the expensive mineral revitalization water purification systems "imbue" your water with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. 

There is no scientific evidence to support these claims.

It is true that bathing in a hot spring relieves aches and pains, particularly those that are commonly associated with arthritis. 

It is also true that in years past, people with a variety of health problems were sent to the springs to "take the cure". 

But, the scientific community believes that the mineral water benefits reported over the years were probably due to poor dietary factors, the soothing affect of relaxing in a hot bath, the lack of general cleanliness in past societies and perhaps an increase in fluid intake. 

Not specifically mineral water benefits, but more like indirect benefits of visiting the spas.

Could mineral revitalization water purification systems allow you to create a spa in your own bathroom?

  That's difficult to say.

 It is safe to say that you do not need a system with expensive Japanese rocks or wasteful reverse osmosis. 

You only need one that provides a clean, chlorine-free shower with a trace of minerals and a balanced pH level.  

You can have mineral water benefits without always drinking out of a bottle or installing an expensive system. 

The most effective products are reasonably priced and actually save you money over buying bottled.