Life on Earth would be rather bland if it was not for salt. Our salty oceans support the largest biodiversity found on the planet. Salt adds flavor to our meals and is also extremely useful due to its antiseptic and ayurvedic qualities. Here’s a look at the different kinds of salts and how best to use them:
Table Salt: Table salt is a free-flowing salt, comprised of at least 97-99% sodium chloride. The most processed variety of salt, anti-caking agents, and essential nutrients like iodide are added to table salt to improve its quality and marketability. Do note that table salt should not be used to fight infections; only untreated, unprocessed natural salts should be used for treatment.
Sea Salt: Sea salt is made by evaporating seawater by either sun drying, boiling, or smoking. Boiling seawater helps remove impurities and is recommended to make high-quality sea salt. Sea salt is very good at fighting infections. I seldom have to treat any of my cuts or wounds when I am regularly diving in the sea; the sea salt in the water keeps them clean and infection-free. Sea salt is also known to remove negativity and can help purify surfaces. When coming back home from outside, sea saltwater baths are effective at washing away infections and disease. Sea salt can also be added to mop water and used in floor cleaning to remove negativity from homes.
Himalayan Rock Salts: Himalayan rock salts are very valuable because of their health benefits. Himalayan pink salt (sendha namak) is mined from the Punjab region of Pakistan and has trace amounts of iron oxide. Himalayan black salt (kala namak) is distinct in its mineral composition with a higher sulfur content and a very distinct smell. Raw natural rock salt is used in gargle water as an effective remedy against sore throats, in jal neti to cleanse sinuses, and in enemas to cleanse the lower gut. Its high mineral and nutrient content make it a valuable addition to food, fruits, and salads.
Our list above is limited to the commonly found salts of India. The world has wondrous varieties from the Hawaiian black lava salt to Persian blue diamond salt, each with its own unique properties, flavors, and benefits. A good, honest person is often referred to as “the salt of the Earth” and rightfully so. Earth’s salts are unique, lifesaving natural minerals.
Did you know?
- Saline Water Benefits: Saline water is an excellent way to safely wipe off sticky infectious mucus from internal organs. Natural salt is commonly used to clean sinuses, treat mouth ulcers, and combat throat infections.
- Relief from Tooth Pain: Salt and pepper are also used to get relief from tooth pain, as both have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.
- Natural Preservative: Since antiquity, salt has been used to cure meat and dry fish. It is a natural preservative.
- Ice Control: Salt lowers the freezing point of water and is thus used in temperate regions to keep roads ice-free.
