Salt is the most essential ingredient, which is used in every kitchen around the world. It helps to enhance the flavor of every dish and contains various minerals that are essential for the human body. However, not all salts are created equal.
Himalayan salt is better than common salt in many ways as it contains a high amount of beneficial minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron.
What is Himalayan Salt?
Himalayan salt, also known as pink salt, is a natural mineral salt that is harvested from the Khewra Salt Mine in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains.
It is estimated to be around 250 million years old and is considered to be the purest form of salt on earth. Himalayan salt is unique because of its pink color, which is due to the presence of minerals such as iron, magnesium, and calcium.
Benefits of Himalayan Salt
Himalayan salt is not just a simple seasoning ingredient; it is a rich source of several essential minerals, which is beneficial for human health. Here are some of the benefits of Himalayan salt:.
1. Promotes Hydration
Himalayan salt contains many minerals that are beneficial in promoting hydration. The electrolytes present in the salt, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium, can help to balance the fluids in your body and keep you hydrated.
As a result, drinking water with a pinch of Himalayan salt can help you to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather or during and after exercise.
2. Regulates Blood Pressure
Himalayan salt contains a good amount of potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure levels in the body. Potassium helps to lower the sodium levels in the body, which in turn, reduces the overall blood pressure in the body.
By incorporating Himalayan salt into your diet, you can help to regulate your blood pressure levels naturally, without any medication.
3. Improves Digestive System
Himalayan salt contains iodine, which is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland helps to regulate the metabolism, which in turn, helps to improve the digestive system.
In addition, Himalayan salt can provide relief from constipation by promoting better digestion. It also helps to balance the pH levels in the stomach by increasing the production of hydrochloric acid, which aids the digestion of food.
4. Reduces Muscle Spasms
Himalayan salt contains magnesium, which plays a significant role in reducing muscle spasms and cramps. Magnesium helps to regulate the nervous system, which, in turn, helps to reduce muscle stiffness and spasms.
In addition, magnesium helps to improve the overall muscle performance of the body. By incorporating Himalayan salt into your diet, you can reduce the occurrence of muscle spasms.
5. Improves Respiratory Health
Himalayan salt is beneficial for people with respiratory problems, such as asthma, allergies, and bronchitis. Himalayan salt inhalation therapy, also called halotherapy, involves inhaling salt air.
The tiny salt particles can help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory system, improve breathing, and reduce mucus buildup.
6. Rich in Trace Minerals
Himalayan salt contains a high amount of trace minerals that are essential for the human body. These minerals include calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc.
These minerals help to strengthen the bones, improve muscle function, and boost the immune system. Unlike common salt, which only contains sodium chloride, Himalayan salt contains over 84 minerals in total, which makes it much more beneficial for health.
How to Use Himalayan Salt
There are various ways to use Himalayan salt in your daily life. Here are some of the ways:.
1. Cooking
Himalayan salt can be used in cooking just like ordinary salt. You can add it to soups, sauces, marinades, and any other dish that requires salt. It has a mild and delicate flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
In addition, it contains a high amount of minerals that can add valuable nutrients to your food.
2. Salt Lamp
Himalayan salt lamps are becoming increasingly popular these days. They are made from large chunks of Himalayan salt and are used as decorative pieces in homes and offices.
The lamps emit negative ions when heated, which can help to reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost overall well-being.
3. Bath Salts
Himalayan salt can also be used as bath salts. Adding a few tablespoons of Himalayan salt to your bathwater can help to reduce muscle soreness, promote relaxation, and improve skin health.
It can also help to detoxify the body by removing toxins through the skin.
Conclusion
Himalayan salt is indeed better than common salt due to its high mineral content, which is essential for the human body.
It has numerous health benefits, including promoting hydration, regulating blood pressure, improving digestive health, reducing muscle spasms, improving respiratory health, and providing essential trace minerals. Unlike common salt, which is processed and stripped of its essential minerals, Himalayan salt is purely natural and unrefined. Hence, it is the better choice for anyone who wants to add valuable nutrients to their diet.