Pink Himalayan Salt – The Superfood!
Himalayan pink salt is a crystal salt that comes from deposits in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. The pink color is due to iron content which is traceable to sulfur and oxygen. Pink Himalayan salt is a type of monohydrate salt that contains aluminum (the major component of salt) and magnesium. It is used for various purposes apart from cooking. Himalayan salt can be used in making salt lamps and salt crystal products.
Himalayan crystal salt was first discovered by the ancient Chinese. They used it for medical purposes since ancient times as blood pressure cures. A study in Physiotherapy showed that this mineral reduced the effects of arteriosclerosis. In fact, this mineral was found to lower the level of calcium in the blood by inhibiting the interaction between calcium and cholesterol.
Calcium and magnesium are essential in the biochemical processes involved in our body and in the regulation of growth. These minerals can neither be given through diet nor can they be obtained through natural mineral extraction. They are continuously being added to foods so that we obtain a balance of the essential minerals. However, the use of additives to provide color, flavor or as an additional nutrient is not allowed.
Sodium is another important mineral for regulating the blood pressure levels. High sodium levels can lead to the development of hypertension. Therefore, it is essential to prevent sodium deficiency and take proper dietary measures to increase the intake of sodium in the daily diet. This is where pink Himalayan salt comes into the picture.
Although this rock material is considered to be highly nutritious, most of the health-conscious people prefer to take it only in small amounts. The presence of trace minerals like potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron etc. in this pink Himalayan salt also adds to its health benefits.
Since the trace minerals help in lowering blood pressure levels, the health-conscious people can also benefit from using this type of salt. It also helps in reducing the risk of developing various types of cancer. A study performed in Finland successfully proved that pink Himalayan salt contains highly effective minerals (calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron etc.) which can be used to improve the immunity system of the body.
Excessive sodium consumption leads to the development of kidney stones, renal tubular diseases and heart diseases. Therefore, pink Himalayan salt can be effectively used to decrease the amount of sodium intake through both diet and food intake. A four-week controlled diet study conducted in Japan successfully showed that a considerable decline in sodium consumption can lead to a considerable reduction in the risk of suffering from hypertension and other kidney diseases.
Another major benefit of using pink Himalayan salt is enhancing the process of wound healing. Injuries are very painful and take time to heal properly. Most of the times, a patient is not in a position to exercise or go out and pursue his activities. He/she is left with very sore muscles. This condition does not get any better unless and until the muscles are given ample time to rest after an injury. On the other hand, using pink Himalayan salt will make the wound to absorb moisture and the rubbing of the surface will stimulate the blood flow towards the injured area and the healing process will take place faster.
Tissues that lie just below the skin surface are called the subcutaneous tissues. Salt causes the release of water from these cells and this facilitates the exfoliation of the cells. When the subcutaneous tissues are removed, it leaves behind smooth and soft connective tissues that further facilitate better blood circulation and better cellular absorption. The result is the enhancement of tissue formation and the production of connective tissue that helps in improving body strength and immunity.
As a result of numerous benefits and positive effects, pink Himalayan salt often gets termed as superfood. It has the power to reduce the risks of heart diseases and stroke, and it also enhances the energy levels in your body. It increases the concentration levels of serotonin and endorphins in your brain and also prevents the activation of the stress hormones in your body. Regular consumption of pink Himalayan salt often results in boosting your memory and concentration power and reducing the risk of certain types of cancer.
The salt deposits found near the town of Khewra salt mine located near Mulkarpur in Rajasthan state of India are also known for the beneficial effects of the mineral. It has the power to decrease the blood pressure level and it also helps to maintain healthy skin. Regular consumption of pink Himalayan salt helps in preventing the development of kidney stones, atherosclerosis and it also enhances the fertility of the women. As compared to regular table salt, pink Himalayan salt has more nutrients and it contains less saturated fats that pose health problems. It also contains trace minerals and vitamins that improve immunity system and keep you fit and fine.
