Himalayan Salt
Himalayan salt
Himalayan salt, also known as Pink salt, is considered as the most superior salt in Ayurveda. The color of the salt ranges from white to pink or dark red due to the high content of iron and other minerals present in it.
It is said to contain 84 minerals including calcium, chloride, sodium and zinc. It maintains electrolyte balance in the body, relieves muscle cramps and keeps the body hydrated.
Himalayan salt is beneficial for the formation and strengthening of bones due to its calcium and magnesium content.
Massaging your face with Himalayan salt helps to remove dead skin and cleanses the skin. It can also be used along with some carrier oil to massage joints to reduce stiffness. Soaking your feet in warm water containing Himalayan salt helps to get rid of edema due to its electrolyte balancing property.
It is advisable to avoid excessive intake of Himalayan salt as it may cause problems like high blood pressure and swelling[1].
It is said to contain 84 minerals including calcium, chloride, sodium and zinc. It maintains electrolyte balance in the body, relieves muscle cramps and keeps the body hydrated.
Himalayan salt is beneficial for the formation and strengthening of bones due to its calcium and magnesium content.
Massaging your face with Himalayan salt helps to remove dead skin and cleanses the skin. It can also be used along with some carrier oil to massage joints to reduce stiffness. Soaking your feet in warm water containing Himalayan salt helps to get rid of edema due to its electrolyte balancing property.
It is advisable to avoid excessive intake of Himalayan salt as it may cause problems like high blood pressure and swelling[1].
What are the synonyms of Himalayan Salt?
Mineral Halite, Pink Himalayan Salt, Sendha Namak, Sindhav Salt, Himalayan Rock Salt
What is the source of Himalayan Salt?
Metal & Mineral based
Benefits of Himalayan Salt
FAQs about Himalayan Salt benefits
1. Loss of Appetite
Himalayan salt reduces loss of appetite by improving digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) property. It also helps to promote the Pachan Agni (digestive fire).
Tip:
Take dried Ginger pieces with Himalayan salt before meals twice a day.
2. Indigestion and Gas
Most of the Ayurvedic formulations for digestive disorders contain Himalayan salt (Sendha namak) as it removes indigestion and controls gas. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
Add Himalayan salt in your daily diet as per your taste.
3. Obesity
Himalayan salt helps manage obesity by burning fat and by improving the metabolism. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
Add Himalayan salt in your daily diet as per your taste.
4. Throat infection
Himalayan salt (Sendha namak) gives relief in case of sore throat, soothes the throat in dry cough, reduces inflammation and swelling of the throat due to its Kapha and Pitta balancing properties.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 pinch of Himalayan salt.
b. Mix it with warm water.
c. Gargle with this water once or twice a day.
Himalayan salt reduces loss of appetite by improving digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) property. It also helps to promote the Pachan Agni (digestive fire).
Tip:
Take dried Ginger pieces with Himalayan salt before meals twice a day.
2. Indigestion and Gas
Most of the Ayurvedic formulations for digestive disorders contain Himalayan salt (Sendha namak) as it removes indigestion and controls gas. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
Add Himalayan salt in your daily diet as per your taste.
3. Obesity
Himalayan salt helps manage obesity by burning fat and by improving the metabolism. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
Add Himalayan salt in your daily diet as per your taste.
4. Throat infection
Himalayan salt (Sendha namak) gives relief in case of sore throat, soothes the throat in dry cough, reduces inflammation and swelling of the throat due to its Kapha and Pitta balancing properties.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 pinch of Himalayan salt.
b. Mix it with warm water.
c. Gargle with this water once or twice a day.
Precautions when using Himalayan Salt
Advice from Experts
Ayurvedic View
Do not take Himalayan salt for a long duration if you have any kind of systematic swelling in the body.
Allergy
Modern Science View
Use it under a doctor’s supervision if you are allergic to Himalayan salt or its constituents[1].
Patients with heart disease
Ayurvedic View
Take Himalayan salt in small quantity if you have high blood pressure. Take a gap between your medicines and the salt if you are taking it for a long duration.
FAQs about Himalayan Salt precautions
Recommended Dosage of Himalayan Salt
- Himalayan Salt Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon; not exceeding 1 teaspoon.
How to use Himalayan Salt
1. Himalayan Salt in cooking
Use it as common salt for cooking in day to day life[2].
2. Himalayan Salt with Ginger
a. Take dried Ginger pieces with Himalayan Salt (Sendha namak) before meals twice a day.
b. It can also be used to control high blood pressure and manage digestive problems[8].
Use it as common salt for cooking in day to day life[2].
2. Himalayan Salt with Ginger
a. Take dried Ginger pieces with Himalayan Salt (Sendha namak) before meals twice a day.
b. It can also be used to control high blood pressure and manage digestive problems[8].
Benefits of Himalayan Salt
1. Dry skin
Himalayan salt is good for cleansing the skin and managing clogged pores and give a glowing skin due to its Laghu (light) and Snigdha (oily) property.
Tips:
a. Wash your face with plain water and do not dry.
b. Take a small amount of salt in your hand and gently massage the face.
c. Wash with plain water and pat dry.
2. Dead skin
Himalayan salt also acts as a good body scrubber. It helps in the removal of dead skin and control dull, rough and aging of skin due to its Laghu (light) and Snigdha (oily) property.
Tips:
a. Wet your skin and take a small amount of Himalayan salt in your hand.
b. Gently massage the skin.
c. Rinse the skin and pat dry.
3. Asthma
Himalayan salt (Sendha namak) helps to dissolve sputum due to its Kapha balancing property.
Tips:
a. In case of asthma and difficulty in breathing, massage the back and chest with Himalayan salt mixed with mustard oil at night before sleeping.
b. Himalayan salt can also be used for gargling to reduce throat infections and common cold twice a day.
4. Joint stiffness
Himalayan salt is also widely used in Ayurvedic oil preparation as it helps in balancing Vata dosha and gives relief from pain and stiffness in the joints.
Tips:
a. Take Himalayan salt based Ayurvedic oil.
b. Massage gently on the affected area.
c. Repeat this twice a day.
5. Edema
Himalayan salt helps manage edema in the feet due to its Pitta and Kapha balancing properties.
Tips:
a. Soak your feet in a bucket of warm water with added.
b. Himalayan salt for 10-15 minutes.
c. Repeat this once or twice a day.
6. Hair loss
Himalayan salt helps control hair fall by removing dirt and dryness due to its Snigdha (oily) and Vata balancing properties.
Tips:
a. Mix Himalayan salt with your shampoo and wash your hair with it.
b. Rinse with cold water and use it twice a week.
Himalayan salt is good for cleansing the skin and managing clogged pores and give a glowing skin due to its Laghu (light) and Snigdha (oily) property.
Tips:
a. Wash your face with plain water and do not dry.
b. Take a small amount of salt in your hand and gently massage the face.
c. Wash with plain water and pat dry.
2. Dead skin
Himalayan salt also acts as a good body scrubber. It helps in the removal of dead skin and control dull, rough and aging of skin due to its Laghu (light) and Snigdha (oily) property.
Tips:
a. Wet your skin and take a small amount of Himalayan salt in your hand.
b. Gently massage the skin.
c. Rinse the skin and pat dry.
3. Asthma
Himalayan salt (Sendha namak) helps to dissolve sputum due to its Kapha balancing property.
Tips:
a. In case of asthma and difficulty in breathing, massage the back and chest with Himalayan salt mixed with mustard oil at night before sleeping.
b. Himalayan salt can also be used for gargling to reduce throat infections and common cold twice a day.
4. Joint stiffness
Himalayan salt is also widely used in Ayurvedic oil preparation as it helps in balancing Vata dosha and gives relief from pain and stiffness in the joints.
Tips:
a. Take Himalayan salt based Ayurvedic oil.
b. Massage gently on the affected area.
c. Repeat this twice a day.
5. Edema
Himalayan salt helps manage edema in the feet due to its Pitta and Kapha balancing properties.
Tips:
a. Soak your feet in a bucket of warm water with added.
b. Himalayan salt for 10-15 minutes.
c. Repeat this once or twice a day.
6. Hair loss
Himalayan salt helps control hair fall by removing dirt and dryness due to its Snigdha (oily) and Vata balancing properties.
Tips:
a. Mix Himalayan salt with your shampoo and wash your hair with it.
b. Rinse with cold water and use it twice a week.
Precautions when using Himalayan Salt
Allergy
Modern Science View
1. Apply Himalayan salt to a small area first to test for possible allergic reactions.
2. People who are allergic to Himalayan salt or its constituents should use it only under doctor’s supervision.
2. People who are allergic to Himalayan salt or its constituents should use it only under doctor’s supervision.
Recommended Dosage of Himalayan Salt
- Himalayan Salt Powder - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Himalayan Salt
1. Himalayan Salt in bathing water
a. Add ½-1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt in a bucket full of water.
b. Take bath with this water to relieve the symptoms of dermatitis and allergic conditions of the skin[5].
2. Himalayan Salt for fomentation
a. Add ½-1 teaspoon of this salt in hot water.
b. Use this water for fomentation (warm compress) to manage swelling and pain on the affected area.
c. For better results use this remedy twice a day.
3. Himalayan salt tooth powder
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt.
b. Add 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder.
c. Also add ½ teaspoon of Mustard oil and mix all the ingredients well.
d. Use 1-2 pinch of the mixture at a time and massage over teeth and gums.
e. Rinse with water.
f. This remedy is useful to manage swollen and painful gums.
a. Add ½-1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt in a bucket full of water.
b. Take bath with this water to relieve the symptoms of dermatitis and allergic conditions of the skin[5].
2. Himalayan Salt for fomentation
a. Add ½-1 teaspoon of this salt in hot water.
b. Use this water for fomentation (warm compress) to manage swelling and pain on the affected area.
c. For better results use this remedy twice a day.
3. Himalayan salt tooth powder
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt.
b. Add 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder.
c. Also add ½ teaspoon of Mustard oil and mix all the ingredients well.
d. Use 1-2 pinch of the mixture at a time and massage over teeth and gums.
e. Rinse with water.
f. This remedy is useful to manage swollen and painful gums.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Himalayan salt drink is nothing but a salt water containing Himalayan salt. You can either add a pinch of salt to a glass of water, mix and drink it or make a stock and use it everyday.
For making stock:
a. Take a 1 litre plastic bottle and add 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan salt and fill it with water.
b. Let it rest overnight.
c. Use 1 teaspoon of this solution in a glass, add water to dilute it and drink every day.
For making stock:
a. Take a 1 litre plastic bottle and add 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan salt and fill it with water.
b. Let it rest overnight.
c. Use 1 teaspoon of this solution in a glass, add water to dilute it and drink every day.
Modern Science View
You can buy Himalayan salt either from your local grocery store or online.
Modern Science View
Himalayan salt lamps are decorative lights that are made from solid blocks of salt. A salt block is carved in a way to contain a light bulb that generates heat and light, similar to that of a bed light. These lamps are are believed to keep the air clean in a room along with having numerous health benefits[10].
Modern Science View
Himalayan salt lamp helps in relaxation, meditation and also energizes the body. The common health benefits of this lamp include relief from stress, recurrent migraines, tiredness, insomnia and nervousness. It also improves concentration[10].
Modern Science View
Himalayan Salt might be a good alternative over table salt due to its high potassium and magnesium content[1]. However, it is also high in sodium content, which is not good for people with high blood pressure. So it is advisable to use Himalayan salt with doctor's consultation if you have high blood pressure.
Ayurvedic View
Himalayan Pink Salt helps to regulate blood pressure due to its property of balancing Vata dosha. It is a better alternative over normal salt for people with hypertension. 1.5-2.3gm Himalayan salt or Sendha namak can be used per day.
Modern Science View
There is no direct evidence stating the role of Himalayan salt in weight loss. However, a study said that Himalayan salt water along with other dietary changes did help in managing weight. But the role of Himalayan salt alone on weight loss is not yet proved[7].
Modern Science View
Just like table salt, excess intake of Himalayan salt can put you at risk of hypertension and heart problems. Excess consumption of salt can increase your risk of stroke and kidney disease[8].
Modern Science View
Although there is no research on the interaction of Himalayan salt with drugs, it is advisable to consult your doctor to prevent complications. However, people taking diuretics need to be careful as an excess of sodium in the body can prevent the removal of sodium from the body[9].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, you can take Himalayan salt (Sendha namak) with prescription and non-prescription medicines with a gap of 15-30 minutes.
Modern Science View
No, there are no research studies that states that Himalayan salt is toxic. In fact, it is believed to be the purest form of salt due to its origin. Also, the high content of potassium and magnesium makes it a better alternative over table salt[1].
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available to support the role of Himalayan salt in regulating hormonal imbalance; it may regulate hormonal imbalance[15].
Ayurvedic View
Hormonal imbalance generally occurs due to an imbalance of any of the three dosha. Himalayan salt might help to regulate your hormonal imbalance due to its Vata, Pitta and Kapha balancing properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Himalayan salt prevent muscle cramps as muscle cramps are generally caused due to magnesium deficiency. Himalayan salt contains magnesium in sufficient quantities and thus helps to overcome muscle cramps. Drinking water mixed with a spoon of Himalayan salt helps to get relief from muscle cramps within a few minutes[11][12].
Ayurvedic View
Muscle cramps generally occurs due to an imbalance of Vata dosha. Himalayan salt might help you prevent this condition due to its Vata balancing property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Himalayan salt help promote bone strength as it contains various trace minerals including calcium and magnesium. Both calcium as well as magnesium are very important for bone formation and strengthens the bones and connective tissues[11][12].
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available to explain the role of Himalayan salt in supporting libido; however due to its high mineral content, it stimulates circulation and may support libido[14][15].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Himalayan salt can play a good role in supporting libido due to its Vrishya (aphrodisiac) property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Himalayan salt is beneficial in enhancing the immune system. It provides all the essential trace minerals and improves the immune system. It fights against bacteria and helps in quick recovery from illnesses[11].
Ayurvedic View
Immunity generally gets hampered because of incomplete nutritional value in the body which is due to poor digestion. Himalayan salt might help you to maintain immunity due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. It helps to improve your digestion, enhance your appetite and provide good nutrition.
Modern Science View
Yes, Himalayan salt helps prevent acid reflux by balancing and regulating the pH of the body. It also has rich iron content due to which it manages heartburn, bloating and flatulence[14-16].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Himalayan salt might help prevent acid reflux which occurs because of weak digestion. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestion) and Sita (cold) properties. It helps to maintain a good digestion and give a cooling effect, thus reducing acid reflux.
Modern Science View
Yes, Himalayan salt is useful to lower the risk of bacterial skin infections by inhibiting bacterial growth[3]. It also helps control skin problems like dermatitis. It reduces swelling associated with dermatitis when used as saltwater.
Modern Science View
It is believed that taking salt water bath can clear dead skin and toxins from the body surface. Salt water bath also helps reduce swelling and pain in the body. Its antibacterial property also helps prevent infections. However, not enough scientific evidence is available, so the health benefits of Himalayan salt water bath needs to be evaluated[5].
Modern Science View
Although the role of Himalayan salt in managing asthma and improving other respiratory conditions is not clear, there are studies on the use of dry salt inhalation therapy (halotherapy) . When you inhale the dry salt, it helps clear the respiratory passage. It decreases inflammation of the airways and dissolves mucus. This helps in clearing cough and improving the symptoms of asthma[4].
Modern Science View
Ideally, Himalayan salt can be used as long as it remains intact. As salt is hygroscopic in nature (absorbs water from air), it is important to store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight container to retain its benefits. If it turns sticky, then avoid using it as it might not serve its purpose.
Modern Science View
Yes, Himalayan salt help in regulating mood and sleep as it maintains the level of sleep hormone (melatonin) in the body and regulates sleep cycle. It helps to relax the body and mind and improves the mood[11].
Tip:
Taking a relaxing bath with a tablespoon of Himalayan salt mixed in water helps to manage stress and anxiety.
Tip:
Taking a relaxing bath with a tablespoon of Himalayan salt mixed in water helps to manage stress and anxiety.
Ayurvedic View
Mood swings and sleep are some factors which are affected by an imbalanced Vata dosha. Himalayan salt might help you in providing a relaxing state in these conditions due to its Vata balancing property.
References
- Hendel B, Ferreira F. Water and salt: the essence of life:The healing power of nature.(Illustrated ed.)Natural Resources, Incorporated; 2003.
- Farquhar WB, Edwards DG, Jurkovitz CT, et al. Dietary sodium and health: more than just blood pressure.J Am Coll Cardiol.2015;65(10):1042-50.
- antsch J, Schatz V, Friedrich D, et al.Cutaneous Na+storage strengthens the antimicrobial barrier function of the skin and boosts macrophage-driven host defense.Cell Metab.2015;21(3):493-501.
- Endre L.Theoretical basis and clinical benefits of dry salt inhalation therapy.Orv Hetil.2015;156(41):1643-52.
- Proksch E, Nissen HP, Bremgartner M, et al.Urquhart C.Bathing in a magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt solution improves skin barrier function, enhances skin hydration, and reduces inflammation in atopic dry skin.Int J Dermatol.2005;44(2):151-7.
- Yoshizawa Y, Kitamura K, Kawana S, et al.Water, salts and skin barrier of normal skin.Skin Res Technol.2003;9(1):31-3.
- Balliett M, Burke JR.Changes in anthropometric measurements, body composition, blood pressure, lipid profile, and testosterone in patients participating in a low-energy dietary intervention.J Chiropr Med.2013;12(1):3-14.
- Rust P, Ekmekcioglu C.Impact of salt Intake on the pathogenesis and treatment of hypertension.Adv Exp Med Biol.2017;956:61-84.
- Milan A, Mulatero P, Rabbia F, et al.Salt intake and hypertension therapy.J Nephrol.2002(1):1-6.
- Lefèvre C.Himalayan salt crystal lamps: for healing, harmony, and purification.Simon and Schuster,2009.
- Kumar Y.Uses of rock salt in diet with table salt: A wonderful combination for good health.J. Biol. Chem. Research.2018;35(1):75-79.
- Sarker A, Ghosh A, Sarker K, et al.Halite;the rock salt:enormous health benefits.WJPR.2016;5(12):407-416.
- Hall C.Healthier Living Naturally: Health and Wellness Guide.2014
- Reed R.Natural Beauty Tips: A Queens Care Guide.2017.
- Merrell A.Eat Smart, Live Long: There Is No Diet That Can Do What Healthy Eating Can.Xlibris Corporation.2016.
- Duggal H, Bhalla A, Kumar S, et al.Elemental analysis of condiments, food additives and edible salts using X-Ray fluorescence technique.Int. J. Pharm. Sci. Rev. Res.2015;35(2):126-133.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.