geomorphology

The development of geo-tourism in the southeast of the Caspian seaboard with a special view on the therapeutic potential of mud volcanoes by geochemical and mineralogical methods for the first time was studied (Case study: Naftlicheh mud volcano). The results of mineralogical and geochemical studies carried out by XRF&XRD methods show that Naftlicheh mud volcano has no significant toxic substances and its main minerals are quartz, calcite, dolomite, halite, clay minerals such as smectite and illite. There is a high amount of elements such as boron, copper, iodine, bromine, vanadium, magnesium, sodium, calcium, organic acids, aromatic hydrocarbons, and bicarbonate. So Naftlicheh mud volcano has a therapeutic aspect and can be one of the essential destinations for curative geo-tourism. In addition to therapeutic effects, mud volcano contains essential scientific information about evaluating gas and oil reservoirs, salt domes and the tectonic situation of the region (faults and subduction) therefore as an educational geo-site can attract a large number of domestic and foreign tourists and geo-tourists. Also, in line with geo-tourism development of the Naftlicheh volcanic mud area, some guidelines are suggested, such as: Presenting media publicity nationally and internationally about the therapeutic potential of Naftlicheh mud volcano.