Is Halotherapy Safe and Effective?

What is Halotherapy? Halotherapy, also known as salt therapy, is a type of relaxation therapy that involves sitting in a room filled with salt. Proponents claim that halotherapy can improve respiratory health, reduce stress and promote relaxation. But is halotherapy safe and effective?

There is some evidence that halotherapy may be beneficial for people with respiratory problems, such as asthma or chronic bronchitis. Halotherapy appears to help loosen mucus and clear airways, which can improve breathing. Additionally, halotherapy may help reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways.

History of Halotherapy

The practice of speleotherapy, which involves visiting salt caves for therapeutic purposes, was popular in Eastern Europe in the 12th century. In the 1800s, Polish salt miners discovered a more modern version of what is now halotherapy. Despite spending all day in mines, the Poles had no respiratory problems and were unusually healthy. They weren't likely to catch any colds or coughs because they didn't work in mines as other people did.‌

According to a study, the salty air the miners breathed helped prevent illness and allergies in their lungs. Eastern European salt mines or caves became popular tourist attractions as a result of this. To breathe the briny air and alleviate respiratory issues, people from all over the world traveled to these places.

How Halotherapy works

"Dry" halotherapy refers to sitting or resting in a man-made salt cave or grotto that is kept at low humidity. The cave is made of Himalayan crystal salt rock with soft lighting from stonelamps. There are reclining chairs, and, often, mild music plays in the background. A halogenerator adds tiny particles of salt to the air. All you have to do is sit back, breathe in the salty air, and unwind for between 30 and 45 minutes.

The salt and water combination is used in "wet" halotherapy, which includes gargling with or drinking saltwater, bathing in saltwater, or using a spray or neti pot to irrigate your nasal passages.

Benefits of Halotherapy

Halotherapy is thought to work in several ways. First, inhaling salt particles can help break up mucus and reduce inflammation, thereby clearing up airways (particularly helpful if someone has asthma, bronchitis, or a sinus infection). The salt particles themselves may absorb toxins, allergens, and bacteria in the airways and on the skin, helping with skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

In addition, it’s thought that salt produces negative ions, which, in turn, are reputed to lead to a number of benefits, including improved energy, better sleep, lower blood pressure, stronger bones, and regulated body pH.

Halotherapy In Philadelphia At Halcyon Floats

If you are interested in trying out halotherapy for the first time but still have questions regarding the benefits of halotherapy and if it is right for you, give us a call today! Our team of wellness experts can answer questions you have to make sure halotherapy is the best option for you.

To schedule a halotherapy session in Philadelphia with us, click here to book your session!