What Is Dry Salt Therapy Good For?

A few weeks ago I went to a healing conference and experienced some new therapies. One of these is salt therapy, excellent for those with allergies, asthma, and other ailments such as stress. I went for a session at Breathe Easy and was most impressed—I took my boys there as well as they suffer from seasonal allergies and we all benefited.

What Is Dry Salt Therapy Good For? And How Often Should You Do Salt Therapy?

Dry salt therapy is primarily used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. It can also help with skin issues like eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, some people find it beneficial for stress reduction and improved sleep.

The frequency of salt therapy sessions largely depends on the individual and the condition being treated. For those with chronic respiratory issues like asthma or COPD, two to three sessions per week are commonly recommended. People seeking relief from skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, may need weekly sessions to see noticeable results.

For general wellness and stress relief, many opt for monthly sessions. Salt therapy is considered safe for regular use, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying medical conditions. While benefits can be felt after just one session, consistent treatments are usually necessary for long-term improvements.

Dry Salt Therapy for Asthma Relief

Dry salt therapy, or halotherapy, originated in the salt caves of Eastern Europe which were found to have healing properties and kept salt miners free of respiratory and skin ailments that were common to other miners. It has since been adapted to become a standard healing and prevention practice throughout Europe and is even available in many hospitals and doctors’ offices. The salt rooms and beds at Breathe Easy recreate the therapeutic salt cave environment with pink Himalayan salt coating the floor and walls and white pharmaceutical grade salt ground up and dispersed into the air to be inhaled naturally.

Does Salt Therapy Actually Work?

Research on salt therapy’s effectiveness has produced mixed results. Some studies suggest that it can be beneficial for specific conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). For example, one study indicated that patients with COPD experienced a reduction in mucus production after just a few sessions. However, the scientific community still lacks conclusive evidence that salt therapy is a one-size-fits-all solution.

That said, many people who undergo salt therapy report noticeable improvements in their breathing and skin after a few sessions. While it’s not a cure, it can provide relief, particularly for those with chronic respiratory conditions.

Types of Salt Therapy: Active vs. Passive Salt Rooms

Salt therapy is generally delivered in two forms: active salt rooms and passive salt rooms. Understanding the difference between these two types can help you choose the right option for your needs.

       
1. Active Salt Rooms: These rooms use a machine called a halogenerator to crush and disperse tiny salt particles into the air. The fine particles are inhaled into the lungs, allowing for deep respiratory benefits. This method is the more effective of the two for addressing lung-related issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and COPD.
       
2. Passive Salt Rooms: In passive rooms, large blocks of salt—typically Himalayan or Dead Sea salt—line the walls and floors, creating a salt-rich environment. However, these rooms don’t use halogenerators, so the salt particles are not actively dispersed into the air. Passive rooms are more commonly used for relaxation and stress relief rather than targeted respiratory therapy.

Both options offer benefits, but active salt rooms are generally more suited for those looking to improve their respiratory health, while passive rooms are ideal for a calming, meditative experience.

The Science Behind Salt Therapy: How Does It Work?

To understand why salt therapy might be effective, it’s essential to look at the properties of salt itself. Dry salt is naturally absorbent, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial. When inhaled in small particles, it travels deep into the respiratory system, where it can help clear mucus and reduce inflammation in the airways. This can make breathing easier for individuals suffering from conditions like asthma, bronchitis, or sinusitis.

On the skin, salt can act as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and promoting regeneration. It helps balance the pH of the skin and improve circulation, which is why it’s often recommended for treating skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Health Benefits of Salt Therapy: What Conditions Can It Help?

Salt therapy is believed to offer relief for several health conditions, particularly those affecting the respiratory system and skin. Below are some of the key conditions it’s commonly used for:

       
1. Asthma: Salt therapy may help asthma sufferers by reducing airway inflammation and breaking down mucus, making it easier to breathe. Studies have shown some improvement in lung function after regular sessions.
       
2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): While not a cure, halotherapy has been found to alleviate symptoms in people with COPD, particularly by clearing mucus and reducing coughing.
       
3. Allergies and Sinusitis: By removing allergens and pollutants from the airways, salt therapy can help people with chronic sinus congestion and seasonal allergies.
       
4. Skin Conditions: Salt therapy is also used to treat skin issues like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Its exfoliating properties help remove dead skin and promote new skin cell growth, leading to smoother, healthier skin.
       
5. Stress and General Wellness: Many people use salt therapy for its relaxing effects, reporting reduced stress and better overall well-being after sessions.

Natural Benefits of Dry Salt Therapy for Allergies

The salt particles enter the airways and break down mucus, kill bacteria, relieve inflammation, increase oxygen flow throughout the body and give the immune system a boost by keeping the lungs, sinuses, and air passages free of bacteria, mucus, allergens, and toxins that get embedded in these areas, irritate sensitive tissues and spread infections. It also balances the pH level of the skin and exfoliates, buffing away dead skin and stimulating healthy skin cell replication.While certainly not intended as a cure or remedy for cancer, salt therapy can be relaxing and healing—and may reduce your need for toxic allergy medications. Please note that salt therapy is not advised during chemotherapy as the detoxification process of Dry Salt Therapy may react with the Chemo. However, once treatment is finished, salt therapy, along with drinking plenty of pure water, exercising, and eating a proper diet rich in fiber and phytonutrients, may help to detoxify after such treatments and support the healing process.

Learn more about Dry Salt Therapy at http://www.breatheeasyusa.com/

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects to Salt Therapy?

While salt therapy is generally considered safe, there are a few potential side effects and risks to be aware of, especially for individuals with certain health conditions.

       
1. Increased Coughing and Mucus Production: During and after salt therapy sessions, some people may experience increased coughing or the production of mucus as the salt particles work to clear the airways. This is usually temporary and a sign that the body is expelling irritants.
       
2. Skin Irritation: Though uncommon, salt therapy can sometimes cause mild skin irritation, especially for people with sensitive skin. It's advisable to monitor how your skin reacts after a session, particularly if you have conditions like eczema.
       
3. Not Suitable for Certain Medical Conditions: Individuals with high blood pressure, respiratory failure, or severe lung conditions like tuberculosis should avoid salt therapy. Additionally, those undergoing chemotherapy or dealing with serious infections should consult their doctor before starting halotherapy.

While salt therapy is a natural and gentle treatment for many, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you have pre-existing conditions or are unsure about its suitability.

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: Reading the information in this post does not constitute a physician-patient relationship, and I encourage you to discuss this information with your integrative oncologist or naturopathic doctor. The information included in this post is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding a medical condition or any treatments.