Sea salts and rock salt are two very popular terms used interchangeably that are often confused for each other. Both terms have come under fire recently with the FDA seeking to ban the sale of sea salt and to ban the use of the ingredient humic acid in gourmet cooking products. So what's the difference between the two? Let's find out!
Humic acid is a component found in many varieties of sea salt. It is a highly refined and processed ingredient and is commonly included in sea salt products that are heavily advertised for their supposed health benefits. Himalayan sea salts however, are harvested from a natural spring located in the foothills of the Hindu Himalayan Mountains where there is no human habitation or industry. This makes them completely safe to eat and can even have beneficial health benefits for those who consume them.
There are two main types of Himalayan salt available on the market. One is produced from the waters around the village of Agra, located in the dry regions of the Thar Desert. This salt is harvested by hand and processed by hand with no electricity used during the process. The pink colour comes from iron oxides and calcium carbonate.
The other type of Himalayan is harvested from the peach-coloured waters of the Gobi Desert by helicopter. This type of salt produces a light pink colour when it is processed, much like the spring water harvested in the Himalayan Mountains. However, the salt is processed even further to make the stone hard and concentrated enough to be able to detoxify the skin. This makes the product an extremely effective alternative to mineral water when used topically on the skin to detoxify and cleanse the pores.
Sea salts can be used topically to soothe the skin and promote healing. During cold and flu seasons, many people flock to their local health shops to buy packets of these beautifying salts to soothe their tired bodies. In addition, they like to use these salts during bath time to soothe themselves and revitalize their skin. People who are prone to ailments like rheumatism and arthritis benefit immensely from the relaxing properties of these minerals. It improves circulation, removes toxins, and enhances immunity.
When buying salts for your home or beauty counter, it is important to know that not all products contain the same quality. Many mass-produced varieties contain synthetic chemicals, dyes, and preservatives that strip away the natural nutrients and minerals found in natural crystal salts. Exfoliating and cleansing products are a better alternative as they are made with natural minerals, herbs, and plant extracts. Moreover, many organic brands are now making exfoliating and cleansing salts as part of their regular product range.
The texture of these salts is somewhere between sand and polished marble. Fine grains tend to have a smooth, fine feel while coarse grains tend to be coarse and rocky. The fine grains can have a very subtle natural flavour, while coarse grains tend to have an earthy taste. The refined salt content makes them softer and less noticeable for their mineral content.
There is a wide range of price when it comes to these natural spa benefits. Rejuvenating baths are priced at around $50, while basic salts are much cheaper. You can find them available online or in health food stores in the US, UK, and Australia. They are also widely available in specialty salons and spas throughout the world. For those who take a lot of baths, it may be wise to get a few boxes and stock up on some.