Evidence supporting the use of: Salt (Himalayan)
For the health condition: Laryngitis
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Himalayan salt, like other forms of salt, has been used traditionally for soothing sore throats and laryngitis, primarily through saline gargles or steam inhalation. The practice is rooted in folk medicine rather than rigorous scientific validation. Historical accounts and traditional remedies from various cultures suggest that salt water can relieve throat discomfort, reduce swelling, and help clear mucus. However, specific references to "Himalayan" salt are mostly modern and driven by marketing rather than distinct historical practices.
Scientific evidence for saline gargles (using any salt) moderately supports their use for symptomatic relief in pharyngitis or upper respiratory tract infections, as saline can draw out excess fluid from inflamed tissues and may have mild antimicrobial properties. However, there is no robust clinical evidence specifically favoring Himalayan salt over regular table salt for laryngitis, and the effect is more about the saline solution than the particular type of salt. No controlled studies demonstrate that Himalayan salt has superior benefits for the vocal cords or larynx.
In summary, the use of Himalayan salt for laryngitis is primarily justified by tradition, not science, and any benefit is likely due to the general properties of saline, not the unique mineral content of Himalayan salt. Evidence for efficacy is limited to mild symptomatic relief, and there is no proof it treats the underlying cause of laryngitis.
Other ingredients used for Laryngitis
aloe verablack pepper
chamomile
turmeric
ginger
honeysuckle
licorice root
marshmallow
spruce
reishi mushroom
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
boneset
mullein
chickweed
typhonium
hyssop
cardamom
inula racemosa
elecampane
horehound
Anamarrhena
acacia
Adenophora
Amor seco
Arisaema
Asarum sieboldii
Bee Propolis
Baphicacanthus cusia
Balsam
Balloon Flower
Belamcanda
Cineole
European Elder
Ivy
Mallow
Sandalwood
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by Salt (Himalayan)
Acid IndigestionAthletic and Exercise Aids
Cold Sores
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colds (with fever)
Congestion
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Constipation (adults)
Cuts
Dehydration
Digestion (poor)
Hangover
Headache (sinus)
Hypotension
Indigestion
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Laryngitis