The many varieties of sea salt, containing around 84 minerals, have become recognized as beneficial for good health. However, eating sea salt is not the only way to enjoy its benefits; adding salt to bathwater may also enhance health and wellness.
Using Salt in the Diet
First, it is important to understand that both table salt and sea salt contain approximately the same amount of sodium chloride. Sea salt comes from live ocean or sea water and is produced through water evaporation. Since it is unrefined and usually contains no additives, it is considered a healthier choice than table salt. Available in iodized and non-iodized varieties, table salt is mined from under the ground. It then goes through processing, at which time the minerals are usually removed and it is also mixed with agents to prevent clumping.
According to the Saltworks article,"Salt for Human Nutrition", “Sodium is an essential nutrient, a mineral that the body cannot manufacture itself but which is required for life itself and good health.”
Benefits of Bathing in Sea Salt
Thanks to its high mineral content, adding sea salt to bathwater may create a therapeutic soaking experience. In the Saltworks article, "The Benefits of Dead Sea Salt", the benefits of bathing in Dead Sea salt are explained. “Research has proven the efficiency of Dead Sea bath salts in alleviating skin diseases such as psoriasis, by treatment that can be administered at home by using about two pounds of salt for each bath. It is also highly beneficial for relieving muscle tension or for simply relaxing and enjoying a rejuvenating experience.”
A few of the important skin-soothing minerals found in sea salts, as provided by Saltworks, are:
- Magnesium helps in dealing with stress, slows down skin aging and calms the nervous system.
- Calcium may assist with water retention, improves circulation, and strengthens bones and nails.
- Potassium helps to balance skin moisture and is a crucial mineral to replenish muscles following intense exercise.
- Bromides help to relieve muscle stiffness.
- Sodium is important for the lymphatic fluid balance (this in turn is important for immune system function).
As a reminder, the many different types of sea salt contain about the same amount of sodium chloride as table salt. Therefore, follow daily allowance recommendations when ingesting it.
Also, keep in mind that these options are not meant to replace medical care or doctor recommendations. Please consult with a medical professional before beginning any new health routine.
Linda Hatton - Linda Hatton has a BFA in Acting from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. Her work has appeared in Rainy Days, The Writing on the Wall, on ...
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