Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Himalayan salt, like other salts, has been used traditionally as a home remedy for colds and congestion, primarily in the form of saline nasal rinses, salt inhalers, or salt lamps. The practice of using salt for respiratory relief dates back centuries, especially in Eastern Europe, where "halotherapy" (salt therapy) in salt caves or rooms has been popular for supporting respiratory health. While regular saline nasal irrigation (using isotonic saline made from table salt or sea salt) has some scientific backing for easing nasal congestion, there is no specific evidence that Himalayan salt offers unique benefits over other types of salt. The distinctive pink color of Himalayan salt comes from trace minerals, but these are not present in significant amounts or shown to provide additional decongestant effects. Scientific studies on salt therapy for colds are limited and results are mixed, with most evidence supporting only mild, temporary symptomatic relief from saline rinses. There is no robust clinical evidence supporting salt lamps or inhaling dry salt (as with Himalayan salt inhalers) for decongestion. Thus, the use of Himalayan salt for cold-related decongestion is primarily rooted in traditional practices, with a modest level of supporting evidence for saline rinses in general, rather than for Himalayan salt specifically.

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