Can You Benefit From Halotherapy? Find Out Here

As many basic physiological functions in the body depend on a balance between salts and liquid, salt, in a way, symbolizes life itself. When they are inhaled, salt particles help in thinning mucus since they draw out fluids. This clears up nasal blockages and opens the airways of patients who have sinus and respiratory problems.

Also a natural disinfectant, salt can kill bacteria and fungus. This greatly improves skin conditions especially for those with dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, and eczema. 

Salt is also said to produce negative ions. This theoretically causes your body to release more serotonin, one of the chemicals responsible for the feeling of happiness. Many people use Himalayan salt lamps to get the benefits of negative ions at home. If you'd like to know more, this article has more details about them.

There are two main categories of Halotherapy and they are the dry methods and the wet methods.

Dry methods are based on man-made “salt caves” that are free of humidity. A device called a halogenerator grinds salt into microscopic particles and releases them into the air of the room. The temperature is cool, set to 68°F (20°C) or lower. Sessions usually last for about 30 to 45 minutes. Patients will sit and relax inside the salt chamber. Some spa resorts offer other wellness treatments in the salt chambers such as massages and facial treatments. 

Halotherapy is also done using a mixture of salt and water. The therapeutic powers of water are well known and backed by science. Wet methods of Halotherapy include:

• Gargling salt water for a sore throat or a cold, or swishing them daily in the mouth as a mouthwash. 

• Bathing in Epsom salt water (read all about the benefits here)

• Using saltwater for nasal irrigation (this is also safe for babies: "According to a 2008 study, inhaling a 3 percent saline solution is a safe and effective treatment for infants with bronchiolitis"- Healthline) 

• Flotation tanks filled with saltwater. This treatment imitates the natural benefits of the Dead Sea. As previously mentioned in this post:

"The Dead Sea area has become a major center for health research and treatment for several reasons. The mineral content of the water, the very low content of pollens and other allergens in the atmosphere, the reduced ultraviolet component of solar radiation, and the higher atmospheric pressure at this great depth each have specific health effects."

Finally, we'd like you to remember that while Halotherapy is meant to work with any medications you’re on, you should let your doctor know you want to try it. Don’t stop any medications without discussing it with your doctor. For further reading, head over to this blog that's dedicated to the benefits of salt therapy.