Himalayan salt is a natural salt that is harvested in the Punjab region of Pakistan. This region is about 190 miles from the Himalayan mountain range. It is full of ancient salt fields. In fact, these salt fields are estimated to be over four billion years old. Himalayan salt is thought to be remnants of the original and primal seas.
Because Himalayan salt is so rich in minerals and is a naturally occurring substance, it is a great alternative to typical table salt. In its raw form, Himalayan salt is typically rose, white or red in color. While table salt is incredibly processed and void of many minerals, Himalayan salt is left in its natural state. There are between 60 and 84 trace minerals in Himalayan salt.
In addition to the high mineral content, Himalayan salt offers several other health benefits as well. One major benefit is that it can improve respiratory problems. Himalayan salt is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. This helps to loosen excess mucus in the lungs as well as removes pathogens in the air such as pollen. In fact, in many places there are now salt caves made of Himalayan salt so people are able to experience more benefits than just consuming it. The term for this natural treatment is “Halotherapy”. This therapy is said to be very effective in treating chronic bronchitis among other ailments.
Himalayan salt can also help balance the body’s pH levels. Your body’s acid to alkaline ratio is very important for your overall health. If your body’s pH is too high or low your immune system and digestive health can suffer. Himalayan salt contains several electrolytes in addition to sodium that directly impact your pH.
Some people like to use Himalayan salt as a salt water flush. Lots of natural health practicians recommend a small salt water flush every day to help the digestive system. It is said to stimulate the peristalsis of the digestive organs, promote the production of digestive fluids in the liver and pancreas, help to balance stomach acid as well as regulate metabolic function.
Using Himalayan salt as a lamp can help to purify the air. How does it do this you may ask? Himalayan salt naturally attracts water vapor as well as pollutants in the air. The water vapor then evaporates from the lamp due to the heat, but the pollutants remain. This prevents them from entering your body.
Himalayan salt can also be a great sleep aid. Its high mineral content promotes more restful and deeper sleep. Studies have shown that diets low in sodium cause restless sleep and more interruptions every night.
Other health benefits of Himalayan salt include:
- Regulation of water levels in the body
- Helps reduce unwanted aging effects
- Maintains healthy blood sugar levels
- Reduces muscle cramping
- Improves nutrient absorption
- Promotes sinus health
- Increases bone strength
- Provides circulatory support
- Encourages a healthy libido
- Promotes kidney and gallbladder health
