Salt therapy is popping up all around the map and it is the process in which humans inhale small particles of salt for many different types of claimed benefits.

Even though salt therapy seems new, it is actually very dated and has been around since the 1800’s. A physician noticed that salt mine workers had less health issues, including less respiratory problems, than workers who had been in other types of mines. Even many years later, when people used to hide in salt caves during WWII, their health improved prompting the spread of salt therapy.

Salt therapy is still confusing in terms of science, but the theory is that when salt particles are inhaled, the particles kill off microorganisms in the lungs to reduce inflammation and decrease mucus. A senior scientific advisor to the American Lung Association suggests that when fine salt particles are inhaled, they fall on the airway linings and draw water into the airway, thinning the mucus and making it easier to breathe, thus making people feel better. The salt particles also can pull out other toxins and bacteria from the body cells in the process.

The treatment essentially involves sitting in a warm room filled with rock salt, with walls that are made of salt and inhaling salty air that’s being pumped into the room by a machine. The room itself usually consists of dim lighting, comfortable seating, and is often very pretty. The surroundings provide a relaxing environment.

People can choose to sit in the salt room anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, with the most commonly chosen time being one hour. There are many different modified versions of the salt room with some rooms including salt and toys that kids can play in like sand, and salt baths that allow for people to float and feel lightweight. The salt rooms are advertised towards all ages.

Initial recommended therapy, by the salt room therapists, for asthma and COPD includes twice weekly therapy for 6-8 weeks. Some people use salt rooms daily and have no complications. It is always important to discuss any type of new therapy with a doctor.

The claimed benefits of salt therapy include relief of symptoms of skin, respiratory and lifestyle conditions, including:

• asthma
• acne
• eczema
• psoriasis
• hay fever
• sinusitis, sleep
• snoring
• stress
• anxiety
• fatigue
• sports performance
• and much more

Many people just use salt therapy as a way to relax in the comfortable quiet rooms and clear the mind as a form of self care. Self care alone is shown to improve health outcomes both mentally and physically.

There is not much evidence showing that salt therapy is harmful. However, since there is no evidence-based findings or guidelines to salt therapy treatment, before starting salt therapy, it should be discussed with a doctor.

Salt rooms can be dehydrating and it is very important to drink plenty of water. There are reports of watery stinging eyes due to the salt. Any patient with eye health concerns should also consult a doctor.

We have a wonderful salt spa right here in Plain City. Sweet Dreams Float and Dry Salt Therapy, 218 West Main Street, offers dry salt therapy, as well as a floatation pod. They also have wonderful gifts for the holidays including salt lamps, aromatherapy dispensers, and essential oils.

Like Sweet Dreams on Facebook HERE and find out more about how to book an appointment.