Salt therapy or Halotherapy is a process of inhaling dried salt particles in a controlled way which helps in many ways to improve health.
Its origins can be traced back to Eastern Europe, where individuals visited salt caves for their putative health benefits. This therapy has primordial roots. Today, salt therapy is administered in contemporary salt chambers and caverns that replicate these natural environments.
This article will elaborate on the benefits of Himalayan Salt Therapy and how it works.
Workings of Salt Therapy
Mechanism of action
The inhalation of micronized salt particles, which are disseminated into the air of a specially designed chamber or cave using a halo generator, is the primary mechanism of salt therapy. There are several ways by which Hiamalayan Salt therapy works. Some of them are as follow:
Anti-inflammatory effects
Salt possesses naturally occurring anti-inflammatory properties. When inhaled, this salt reduces the inflammation in the respiratory tract which also helps in reducing many respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis.
Mucolytic Effects
Sessions in Salt therapy room thins mucus, facilitating its removal. This is specifically beneficial for persons which suffer from respiratory ailments and have problem of excessive mucus production due to this.
Antimicrobial Properties
Salt is renowned for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Inhaling salt particles can reduce the microbial burden in the respiratory tract, helping to prevent and treat infections.
Respiratory Function Improvement
Salt therapy can enhance oxygenation and facilitate easier respiration by reducing inflammation and dispersing mucus, thereby improving overall respiratory function. Thus, better air quality and a clean environment can enhance the functioning of respiratory organs.
Different types of salt
Typically, pharmaceutical-grade sodium chloride is employed in halotherapy, as it is devoid of additives and contaminants. Mineral-rich salts, such as Himalayan pink salt, are occasionally employed despite the scarcity of clinical evidence that substantiates their superiority.
The advantages of salt therapy include
There are many health benefits if salt therapy. It is used to manage respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, and allergies. It aids in cleansing mucus, reducing inflammation, and enhancing respiratory function.
Skin Conditions
Acne, psoriasis, and eczema are among the skin conditions that can be improved by salt therapy. Himalayan Salt have the ability to reduce the number of harmful microbes and also improve the skin health by reducing inflammation, better blood flow and enhancing healing of the skin.
Enhanced Immune Response
Regular salt therapy sessions help support the immune system by reducing the frequency and severity of colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. The therapy's purported ability to clear out mucus and pathogens from the respiratory system may contribute to a more robust immune response.
Relief of Stress and Relaxation
The tranquil environment of Salt therapy room there is a decrease in the stress and anxiety levels of persons. The negative ions released by the Himalayan Salt on heating improves the overall mood and lowers stress levels by creating a relaxing environment.
Athletic Performance
In an effort to optimize their performance, improve respiratory function, and abbreviate recuperation periods, certain athletes implement salt therapy. Increased lung function can result in enhanced endurance and oxygen absorption.
Evidence and Clinical Studies Respiratory Health Asthma
A study published in the journal Paediatric Pulmonology examined the effects of halotherapy on children with asthma. Compared to the control group, the randomized, controlled trial demonstrated that children who received halotherapy substantially improved lung function and asthma symptoms.
Salt Therapy and COPD
The effects of salt therapy on patients of COPD was assesed in research published in the International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. According to the study's findings, Halotherapy was found to considerably enhance the quality of life and respiratory function of COPD patients.
Chronic Bronchitis
A study published in the European Respiratory Journal investigated the advantages of saline therapy for patients with chronic bronchitis. There was less mucus production, less wheezing, low levels of inflammation, and improvement in the overall respiratory tract.
Skin Conditions Eczema
A study was conducted to investigate the impact of salt therapy in University of Manchester on eczema individuals. Persons who had regular sessions of it reported that they had seen improvement in their skin condition. The skin was hydrated, less irritation and overall health of skin wall improved.
Psoriasis
Adjunctive treatment for psoriasis may be effective through halotherapy, according to research published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment. Patients observed a decrease in scaling and erythema subsequent to consistent salt therapy interventions.
Improved Breathing
Salt therapy is commonly used to help with respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis. The inhalation of dried salt particles help in reducing inflammation, low mucus production and opened air ways of respiratory track. All these help in easy breathing.
Relaxation and Stress
A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine evaluated the effects of salt therapy on stress levels and mental health. The negative ions in the salt air are also believed to have mood-enhancing effects, similar to spending time by the sea or in the mountains.
Conclusion
Particularly for respiratory and skin conditions, salt therapy, or halotherapy, provides a variety of prospective health advantages. Anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, and antimicrobial effects comprise its mechanisms of action. Before commencing halotherapy, it is also necessary to consult a professional for any complication or pre existing conditions.
