We know that those who represent the best of our society are called “The Salt of the Earth,” but how do we classify Epsom, Dead Sea or Himalayan Pink salt? How about “The Salt of the Body”? Our bodies need salt and these three different salts can aid in our health and wellness.
It has been estimated that over 75% of the salt intake in the U.S. is derived from salt added during food processing or manufacturing, rather than from salt added at the table or during cooking. Sometimes the words “salt” and “sodium” are used interchangeably, but this is not correct. Table salt is sodium chloride and is 40% sodium and 60% chloride. Sodium is an essential nutrient; a mineral that the body cannot manufacture itself, but too much of anything, is not a good thing. Minerals and trace elements are found in salt and iodized salt is preferred. However, did you know that iodine deficiencies can cause cretinism, stillbirth, miscarriage, mental retardation and a lower IQ? Read more about iodine deficiency on another post here.
So what can these salts help with?
- Epsom salt or Magnesium sulfate is an inorganic salt and originates from Surrey, England and is used internally and externally. The sulfate is also supplied in a gel preparation for topical application in treating aches and pains. Magnesium is used in multiple systems within the body. According to some sources, it serves as a regulator for more than 325 enzymes in our bodies. The sulfates in Epsom salt help the body absorb nutrients; flush out toxins and form proteins and muscle tissue. Also used in gardening as a soil supplement and in bath treatments. People, who are magnesium deficient, can have the following: heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, arthritis and joint pain, digestive problems, and chronic fatigue. Used to treat autism.
- Dead Sea salts differ greatly from other sea salts in mineral content. Made up of only 8% sodium chloride with a high percentage of magnesium, sulfates and potassium. Dead Sea bath salts aid in the treatment of common dry skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis and is known to reduce pain and inflammation from arthritis and rheumatism. The high mineral content is credited with the cleansing and detoxification of the skin and with parasites. This one, of course, was Cleopatra’s favorite and contains: magnesium, chloride, sodium, calcium, potassium and bromide.
- Himalayan Pink salt’s color is a result of the trace elements in the salt. This salt includes: energy-rich iron and 83 other natural minerals and elements. These natural minerals are essential for human health, and can be readily absorbed through bathing. Himalayan salt has been praised for its healing benefits; and is known for stimulating circulation, soothing sore muscles, helping to reduce acid reflux, lowering blood pressure and removing toxins. Those who sell Himalayan salt inhalers claim they can help support rehabilitation and medical therapies of the respiratory system, including asthma. They are not FDA approved. Also for sale are salt cutting boards, salt plates or blocks that one can cook on. Salt blocks can actually be heated in the oven up to 400 degrees for cooking fish, thinly sliced meats, or even eggs and give off a light salt seasoning. They can be refrigerated as well.
Bath Salts and Essential oils…According to the Saltworks.us, you can use any of the three following recipes to help you relax in the bathtub:
- Mix 16 oz. of Epsom salt, 5 drops of Eucalyptus Oil, 15 drops of Lavender Oil;
- 16 oz. of Dead Sea salt with 20 drops of Lavender;
- 16 oz. of salt of Himalayan Pink Salt with 10 drops Spearmint Oil and 5 drops Rosemary Oil.
All salt and essential oils should first be tried in small amounts to observe the body’s reaction to oils and minerals. You can find salts varieties on Amazon.
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