Benefits yes, cure-all, no. Some claim that himalayan salt will cure anything and everything, this is not quite the case but some major benefits have been scientifically and anecdotally proven over the years.
Himalayan salt is made from unrefined rock crystals often mined in Pakistan in an area close to the Himalayas. Although it comes from the mountains, it is technically one of the purest form of sea salt. Undoubtedly, it is purer than table salt which is processed, bleached and heavily refined, eliminating minerals in the process. At the end of the refining process the table salt chemical makeup is roughly 97.5% sodium chloride and 2.5% chemicals including aluminum and other additives. On the other hand, Himalayan salts are made up of 85.6% sodium chloride ad 14.4% trace minerals such as magnesium, calcium and potassium, giving it a pink rosy hue. The balance of trace elements in the Himalayan salt work in synergy with the human body leading to various health benefits. Various salt therapies can improve minerals and hydration, balance blood sugar, detoxify and balance our PH levels and have even been noted to aid in balancing hormones. Below we explore four ways to include Himalayan salt into your lifestyle.
The balance of trace elements in the Himalayan salt work in synergy with the human body leading to various health benefits.
The benefits of drinking sole are notable. In 2003, a nine-week, double-blind study conducted in Austria evaluated the effects to daily consumption of water with table salt versus Himalayan crystal salt. The findings showed that patients who drank water with the original Himalayan crystal salt experienced positive changes in respiratory, circulatory, organ, connective tissue and nervous system functions. Increases in sleep quality, energy and concentration levels, brain activity, and consciousness were also reported (2).
This is a simple way to include this salt into your daily routine, Give it a try for a week and notice how you feel!
Halotherapy is a natural therapy where salty air is inhaled and the particles travel through your respiratory system. The salt has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that help to detox the body, lungs and sinuses. For people with asthma, seasonal allergies, coughs and chest congestion this therapy can be greatly beneficial (3). Additionally, the salt particles circulating in the air can aid with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis (4). There is a halotherapy room in Ottawa that you can try out called Salt Wave.
Salt Lamps have been noted to have air purifying properties. They attract moisture from the air to the surface of the lamp which then warms and evaporates. Through the evaporation, negative ions are produced. The positively charged pollen, dust, dirt and allergens normally suspended in the air are neutralized, trapped by the salt ions. In addition, the negative ion production of salt lamps are believed to reduce the electromagnetic frequencies emitted from electronics. High levels of EMFs in our environment can contribute to many ailments and diseases. Salt lamps not only look nice in your home but have a few beneficial properties; it is best to leave them on all day for full effects to take place (1).
Dry scrubbing is very beneficial for improving circulation by stimulating the lymphatic system. Exfoliating rids the build up of dead skin cells, opening pores to release stored toxins. It can help detox the skin allowing excess fat to detox and diminish the appearance of cellulite. This can also relieve stress and calm the mind.
Mix the coconut oil with the essential oils. Add in the salt, sugar and coffee grounds until completely mixed. Use in the shower or dry scrub once a week. Keep stored with lid secured.
