The name "Isinuka", means "place of smell", which refers to the odour of the sulfur which diffuses from the springs.

[1] 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.

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 clays and soils particle size influences the refractive index (light) which allows for them to be used a s skin protectors.

Quartz, mica and illite are very stable substances however, due to their particle size, can cause abrasions when applied topically.

The clay also has components which include bromide and arsenic, the latter was used to treat syphilis, yaws and other bacterial infections before the development of penicillin.

Other trace elements found include cobalt, chromium, copper, zinc, uranium and radioactive strontium.