Pink Himalayan Salt Origins
Himalayan salt originates from a large range located in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. The salt was formed over 250 million years ago from fossil deposits in ancient seabeds. In addition to sodium chloride (salt), this naturally occurring salt contains many beneficial minerals including magnesium, potassium, copper, and iron. These minerals give the salt a pinkish color and, more importantly, provide many positive attributes.
The mining process to extract the salt is done completely by hand. Once extracted, it is also washed by hand and then dried in the sun ensuring the salt remains in its original state – there is no processing of Himalayan salt. Table salt, on the other hand, is processed and usually has iodine as an additive. Part of the processing includes heating table salt to a temperature that can alter the chemical composition.
The many benefits of Himalayan salt come from its purity, geographic location, and availability in its original state. Since there is no mechanical or chemical processing, additives, or dyes, it is considered to be one of the highest grades of natural salt.
Benefits of Himalayan Salt
Though not medically proven, Himalayan salt has external and internal benefits for the human body. As a bath salt, it can penetrate the outer skin layer and promote healthy cell growth. This has been found to relieve many skin maladies - the aid of the inherent minerals being a factor. Other advantages include relieving sore muscles and removing some of the body’s toxins.
Internally, the salt is believed to improve digestion. Many chefs who have a natural or holistic approach will us this salt. Although it’s contrary to conventional thinking, Himalayan salt can help to regulate the body’s water content. Many have claimed it will improve circulation, balance one’s pH level, and improve respiratory health. Other benefits include maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, reducing sinus issues and increasing bone strength. These attributes come from the naturally occurring composition and the original, unaltered state of the salt itself.
Uses for Himalayan Salt
Himalayan salt is employed in many ways including:
• Bath Salts – as mentioned above, the properties of the salt have many benefits for the skin and body.
• Cooking Ingredient – due to its natural state, this salt is used by many who prefer to use ingredients that have not been processed.
• Serving Dishes – the salt is formed as decorative serving dishes and marketed by top retailers.
• Cooking Surface – the salt slab can be heated to reach temperatures where fish, meats and eggs can be cooked or seared.
• Preservative – salt is a natural preservative that keeps meat and fish for many months. Many people prefer Himalayan salt as the properties help to maintain the natural flavor of the preserved item.
When mined, Himalayan salt is extracted in large chunks. These masses are sculpted into decorative shapes and then used as either lamp bases or candleholders. Heat from the light bulb or candle releases ions that can neutralize pollutants in the air. People suffering from allergies and asthma may experience fewer symptoms as well.
As a naturally occurring and non-processed compound, the numerous benefits of Himalayan salt are worth exploring.
