7 Reasons To Add Himalayan Pink Salt In Your Daily Life

Have you noticed everyone raving about Himalayan pink salt in their kitchens and wellness routines lately? 

Well, it might not just be its gorgeous, rosy hue. This salt is rich in minerals, boasts a fascinating history, and offers impressive health benefits.

Did you know the Himalayan salt is over 250 million years old? That’s older than most of the earth’s forests! 

it’s one of the purest salts on the planet, untouched by environmental pollutants. Studies even show it can help balance electrolytes, support hydration, and promote better sleep.

So, let’s get into the details of why this ancient salt is becoming a must-have in kitchens and wellness routines!

What Is Himalayan Pink Salt?

It is a natural rock salt known for its striking pink color and origin from the Himalayan regions. It has gained immense popularity as a healthier alternative to table salt because of its health benefits.

Origins And History

Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan, one of the oldest and largest salt mines in the world. The origin of this salt traces its roots back to primordial seas that evaporated over 250 million years ago.

How It Is Harvested

The process of harvesting pink salt is refreshingly traditional. Miners extract it by hand to preserve its natural properties. 

These large salt rocks are then sorted, cleaned, and turned into different forms such as coarse crystals for grinders to finely powdered salt for seasoning. It is unprocessed, which means it does not contain additives like those found in regular table salt.

Composition And Unique Pink Hue

So, what makes it pink? The distinctive pink hue of this salt comes from trace minerals, including magnesium, and potassium. It contains over 80 minerals (in trace amounts) that occur naturally.

Health Benefits of Himalayan Pink Salt

People know pink salt for its rich mineral content and potential health benefits. Below are some of the key advantages of incorporating this natural salt into your diet and wellness routine:

1. Rich Source Of Essential Minerals

One of the primary benefits of this is its mineral content. In addition to sodium, it contains over 80 trace minerals and elements, including potassium, calcium, and magnesium. 

These minerals are essential for maintaining various bodily functions, such as:

• Bone Health: Calcium and magnesium are essential for strong bones.
• Iron Supply: The pink hue comes from iron, which supports red blood cell production.

2. Electrolyte Balance And Improves Hydration

Pink Himalayan salt helps improve hydration by providing essential electrolytes that maintain fluid balance in the body. Unlike regular table salt, which can cause dehydration due to its high sodium content. 

• Himalayan salt’s electrolytes like sodium and potassium regulate muscle contractions and nerve impulses. A study in the Journal of Human Hypertension (2014) highlights the importance of natural salts in maintaining hydration and balancing electrolytes. 

3. Balances pH Levels

The minerals in pink salt can help balance the body’s pH levels, particularly when it comes to acidity. A balanced pH is crucial for overall health, as excessive acidity in the body can lead to various health issues. 

• The clinical study conducted at the University of Graz, Austria, in 2001, says that regular consumption of sole water (saltwater solution) water improves acid-alkaline balance in the body. 

4. Supports Respiratory Health

Halotherapy, the inhalation of Himalayan pink salt particles, is believed to offer respiratory benefits. Wellness centers often feature salt rooms or salt caves, where fine salt particles saturate the air. 

• This practice helps clear the respiratory tract, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. 
• A study in the NIH 2019 found that salt inhalation therapy (halotherapy) may improve respiratory symptoms, but more studies are needed to establish its long-term effectiveness.

5. Enhances Skin Health

Skincare products, such as scrubs and bath salts. Often this ingredient is for its exfoliating and detoxifying properties. 

The minerals in the salt can help remove dead skin cells, improve circulation, and promote healthy skin and glowing complexion. Additionally, salt baths can help soothe skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

6. Aids Digestion

Feeling bloated or sluggish? A pinch of pink salt in water or on food can stimulate the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which is essential for proper digestion. 

It may also help balance stomach acid levels, reducing symptoms of acid reflux and indigestion. It’s often used in traditional remedies like sole water to boost gut health.

7. Promotes Better Sleep

Pink Himalayan salt baths are a popular remedy for relieving stress and relaxing muscles. The magnesium content is believed to play a role in soothing soreness, improving mood, and promoting better sleep.

Moreover, according to NCBI research, an analysis of the mineral composition of pink salt available in Australia reveals its diverse mineral content and potential health benefits.

Additionally, the 2007 Fenestra Research Labs study suggested that pink salt from the Himalayas can improve hydration, stabilize pH, reduce oxidative stress, and normalize mineralization, but its findings lack peer-reviewed validation.

How To Use Himalayan Pink Salt In Daily Life?

Himalayan salt offers a variety of uses that can enhance your overall health and wellness. From cooking to skincare, here’s how you can incorporate this natural salt into your daily routine.

Cooking With Himalayan Salt

Pink Salt is a healthy alternative to regular table salt. It’s rich in minerals and adds a delicate, slightly earthy flavor to dishes. Here are some ways to include it in your cooking:

• Seasoning: You can use pink salt in the same way as regular table salt. It is ideal for seasoning meats, vegetables, and other dishes, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to your meals. The coarse variety is often sprinkled over dishes just before serving to enhance flavor and presentation, making it an ideal finishing salt.
  
• Cooking Salt Blocks: Another popular use of pink salt is in cooking slabs, also known as salt blocks. You can heat these thick slabs of salt and use them as a cooking surface for grilling meats, seafood, and vegetables. The salt slab imparts a unique flavor to the food and also provides a visually striking presentation.
  
• Salt for Finishing: Sprinkle pink Salt on top of dishes just before serving to enhance texture and flavor, especially for roasted or grilled items.

DIY Skin Care And Beauty Treatments

Himalayan pink salt is a popular ingredient in homemade skincare products. Its natural exfoliating properties and high mineral content can help promote glowing skin and support detoxification: 

• Exfoliating Scrub: You can create a simple salt scrub by mixing coarse pink salt with coconut oil and a few drops of essential oil. Use this scrub to exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin, leaving it soft and glowing.
  
• Face Masks: Add a pinch of pink salt to your regular face mask mixture to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
  
• Foot Soak: This is my personal favorite, dissolve pink salt in warm water to create a soothing foot soak that can relieve tired feet and soften skin.

Relaxation And Wellness: Salt Baths And Lamps

You can also use this salt in wellness practices to promote relaxation and a sense of calm.

• Salt Baths: Add a few scoops of pink salt to your bathwater. The minerals in the salt can help relax muscles, soothe skin conditions, and promote a sense of well-being. Thus this salt is good for health and keeps balance in life.
  
• Himalayan Salt Lamps: Large chunks of pink Himalayan salt are used to make salt lamps, which are often a part of decorative items in homes and wellness centers. Although scientific evidence is less, many people find salt lamps both soothing and attractive in their living spaces.

Comparison: Himalayan Pink Salt vs. Regular Table Salt

Both pink salt and regular table salt are used to season and preserve food, but they differ in terms of nutritional value, taste, texture, and how they interact with your body. 

Let’s break down these differences and see which one might be the better choice for your health and cooking needs.

Nutritional Differences

• Pink Himalayan Salt: Contains over 80 trace minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron. These minerals contribute to various health benefits like electrolyte balance and improved hydration.
  
• Table Salt: It is primarily made up of sodium chloride, with some added iodine (in iodized salt) to prevent deficiencies. However, table salt is usually processed which removes most of its natural minerals.

Taste and Texture Comparison

• Pink Himalayan Salt: Offers a mild, slightly earthy flavor and is available in various forms like fine grains, chunks, and blocks. The larger crystals provide a satisfying crunch when used as a finishing salt.
  
• Table Salt: It tastes straightforward and dissolves easily in food due to its fine texture. It tends to be more uniform in flavor but can sometimes taste harsher due to its higher sodium content.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between pink Himalayan salt and regular table salt depends on your needs:

• For Health: If you’re looking for a salt that provides additional minerals, pink Himalayan salt is the way to go. It’s a natural and less processed option that offers slight health benefits, especially if you consume it in moderation.
  
• For Cooking: Use pink Himalayan salt for its unique flavor and texture in gourmet cooking, finishing dishes, or as a part of DIY wellness routines.
  
• For Iodine: If you need to ensure adequate iodine intake (for thyroid health) then go for iodized table salt, particularly if you don’t get enough iodine from other food sources.

Himalayan Pink Salt Side Effects

While pink Himalayan salt offers numerous health benefits. It is essential to be aware of its potential side effects, particularly when consumed in excess.

1. High Sodium Content: Although we consider pink salt a healthier alternative to regular table salt, it still primarily consists of sodium chloride. 

Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. It is crucial to use pink salt in moderation, just as you would with any other type of salt.

2. Risk Of Mineral Overload: pink Himalayan salt contains trace amounts of various minerals. But consuming too much of it could lead to an overload of certain minerals, such as iodine. 

While iodine is essential for thyroid function, too much can cause thyroid dysfunction and other health issues. It’s important to maintain a balanced diet and not rely solely on pink salt for your mineral intake.

3. Potential Contaminants: Marketers usually promote pink Himalayan salt as a pure and natural product, but it may contain contaminants like heavy metals.

This risk is generally low, but it’s still important to purchase high-quality, food-grade pink salt from reputable sources.

4. Not A Substitute For Iodized Salt: One main concern with pink Himalayan salt is that it lacks significant amounts of iodine, an essential nutrient that regular table salt contains to prevent iodine deficiency. 

Iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid problems, such as goiter and hypothyroidism. If you primarily use pink Himalayan salt, it’s important to ensure you’re getting enough iodine from other sources, such as seafood, dairy products, or iodized salt.

Things To Keep In Mind When Buying Himalayan Pink Salt

Pink Himalayan salt is a popular choice due to its unique flavor and potential health benefits. However, not all Himalayan salts are created equal. 

When purchasing, it’s important to consider a few factors to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product. Here’s what to keep in mind.

1. Authenticity And Purity

Given the rise in demand, there are many counterfeit or adulterated products on the market. To ensure you’re getting the real deal:

• Check for Color: Authentic pink Himalayan salt ranges from light pink to deep red hues. Be cautious of salt that appears overly white or pale, as this could have impurities or excessive processing.
  
• Look for Mineral Content: High-quality pink Himalayan salt should contain more than 80 trace minerals. Some brands provide information about their salt’s mineral composition on the packaging.
  
• Avoid Added Ingredients: Pure Himalayan salt should not contain any anti-caking agents, iodine, or preservatives. Always check the ingredient list to make sure it’s 100% natural.

2. Packaging And Storage Tips

Proper packaging and storage are crucial to maintaining the quality and effectiveness of Himalayan pink salt:

• Packaging: Look for products that come in airtight, sealed packaging to preserve the salt’s purity and prevent moisture or contaminants from entering. Glass jars or resealable bags are great options.
  
• Storage: Keep pink Himalayan salt in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Moisture can cause it to clump, and excessive light may diminish its mineral properties. Avoid storing it in plastic containers as they can interact with the salt over time.
  
• Best Before Date: Check the best-before date to ensure that salt hasn’t been sitting on the shelf for too long.

3. Trusted Brands Available In India

When purchasing pink Himalayan salt in India, look for reputable brands that ensure product authenticity and quality. 

• Brands: A few trusted brands are The Spice Lab, Natureland Organics, Swasthya Himalayan Salt, Urban Platter, and Sattvik Organics.

4. Price And Value

Pink Himalayan salt can vary greatly in price depending on its quality and source. Be wary of extremely cheap options, as they may lack authenticity or purity. 

• Bulk Buy: Generally, higher-quality salts are priced reasonably in the mid-range. If you use pink Himalayan salt regularly, buying in bulk can offer better value, as long as you ensure proper storage to maintain freshness.

5. Certifications And Transparency

Look for brands that provide certifications or transparency about the sourcing and processing of their salt. 

• Certifications like organic, fair trade or non-GMO can give you extra assurance about the salt’s quality and ethical sourcing practices.

A Word From Fitelo

In short, Himalayan pink salt is a natural rock salt, known for its pink hue. It is known as a healthier alternative to regular table salt due to its rich mineral content. 

It includes over 80 trace minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These minerals contribute to various health benefits.

Health Benefits

1. Contains essential minerals that support bone health and red blood cell production.
2. Helps improve hydration and balances electrolytes.
3. Assists in balancing the body’s pH levels.
4. Inhalation therapy using Himalayan salt helps with asthma and bronchitis.
5. Known for its detoxifying and exfoliating properties, it promotes healthy skin and helps soothe skin conditions.
6. Stimulates hydrochloric acid production for better digestion.
7. Magnesium content promotes relaxation and better sleep.

How to Use

1. You can use Himalayan salt like regular salt for seasoning, as a finishing salt, or on cooking slabs for grilling.
2. Use it in scrubs, face masks, and foot soaks to exfoliate and detoxify.
3. Salt baths and Himalayan salt lamps help promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Comparison: Himalayan Pink Salt vs. Table Salt

• Pink Himalayan salt contains over 80 trace minerals, unlike table salt, which primarily provides sodium chloride with added iodine.
• Himalayan salt has a milder, earthy flavor and can provide a crunch when used as finishing salt, whereas table salt is finer and more uniform in taste.

Side Effects

• High Sodium Content
• Mineral Overload
• Contaminants
• Iodine Deficiency

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying

1. Check for color variations and mineral content, and ensure it’s free from additives.
2. Ensure it’s stored in airtight, sealed containers in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and moisture.
3. Be wary of very cheap options go for mid-range prices.
4. Look for certifications to ensure quality and ethical sourcing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Himalayan Pink Salt Good For?

Pink Himalayan salt is rich in over 80 trace minerals, supporting electrolyte balance, hydration, and bone health. It also promotes better digestion, balances pH levels, aids in respiratory health, and enhances skin wellness through its mineral content.

Who Should Not Use Himalayan Pink Salt?

People with high blood pressure, kidney problems, or those on a sodium-restricted diet should avoid excessive consumption of pink Himalayan salt due to its sodium content. Additionally, individuals with iodine deficiencies should not be on Himalayan salt as it lacks significant amounts of iodine.

How Much Pink Himalayan Salt Should I Drink A Day?

Drinking sole water (a saltwater solution) should be done in moderation. The right dose is 1-2 teaspoons dissolved in a glass of water.

Why Is Himalayan Pink Salt So Expensive? 

Pink Himalayan salt is expensive due to its labor-intensive harvesting process, which is mostly done by hand. Additionally, its unique mineral content and the demand for natural, unrefined products contribute to its higher price compared to regular table salt.

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Disclaimer

This blog post was written to help you make healthy and better food choices. So, be aware and take care. The important thing to consider is your own health before starting a diet that is restrictive. Always seek advice from a doctor or dietitian before starting if you have any concerns.

Eat healthily, live healthy, and enjoy a long, happy life!