Pink Himalayan Salt Water: Benefits And How Much Salt To Add
When I was writing an article on how to remineralize water I came across the concept of creating Himalayan Salt Water as a possible DIY solution. I was intrigued and dug deeper into the potential benefits. Based on the purported benefits I decided to create a batch and try it out for myself. As of now, I think the benefits outweigh any negative things I encountered. But, read on, you will want to know about a couple of the after-effects I encountered. Let’s just say, you should know where a toilet is the first couple of times you give it a try.
One distinction I want to make is the difference between Sole Water (pronounced so-lay) and Pink Himalayan Salt Water. Based on my research, they are similar but different based on the amount of salt you intake based on how you make it. You can see some of my health tracker scores and personal experiences in the My Experience section below.
How to Make and Use Himalayan Salt Water
Making the solution is simple. Dissolve up to a teaspoon of Himalayan salt in a glass of warm water. It’s best consumed first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. If you have a sore throat, you can also gargle with the solution for relief.
How Much Himalayan Salt To Add To Water
The first piece of advice I came across on how much Himalayan salt to add to water was from a video from Dr. Alan Mandell, a South Florida-based Chiropractor. He recommends adding 1/2 – 1 teaspoon (5ml) of Himalayan salt to 1 cup of water (8 ounces) first thing in the morning. I am going to consider this recipe “Himalayan Salt Water” vs. “Sole Water”, which is much more diluted once you make the solution and then add a teaspoon up to a tablespoon of it to a glass of water. We have another article specifically on Sole Water here.
| Type | Himalayan Salt | Water |
|---|---|---|
| Himalayan Salt Water | 1/2 – 1 teaspoon (5ml) | 1 cup (8 ounces) |
| Sole Water | 1/4 of jar filled (3 Ounces) | 12 Ounces |
Dr. Mandell’s Himalayan Salt Water Recipe
I have been experimenting with Dr. Mandell’s recipe and recommended dosage so far. I started with somewhere between a 1/2 – 1 teaspoon of sea salt mixed into a mason jar filled with 8 ounces of water. I took it immediately the first time and then realized it likely took more time for the salt to dissolve. I then started making the mixture the evening before.
| Himalayan Salt | Water |
|---|---|
| 1/2 – 1 teaspoon (5ml) | 1 cup (8 ounces) |
Adding Himalayan Salt To Water
I added the salt to the jar and then gave it a shake and put in the refrigerator. Dr. Mandell, and many others, recommended taking the solution in the morning on an empty stomach. When I woke, I took the solution out of the refrigerator, gave it a good shake, and then drank it over a 5-minute or so period. It can be shockingly salty and may make everything else you eat after it a little more salty as well. You may find the non-salt portion of the Himalayan salt settles to the bottom. I have not been drinking that and just pour or rinse it out after I am done.
In the picture below you can see some of the darker maroon-colored crystals that may not fully dissolve. It is caused by mineral impurities that give the salt it’s pink color.
My Experience So Far
I made the solution on 6 separate days. The quote below rang really true for me.
It helps in maintaining the fluid balance in your body by sending signals form one cell to another and thus, assist the kidneys in eliminating wastes and toxins.
food.ndtv.com
If this salt solution helps get rid of toxins and mucus in your body, then that may explain why, my apologies for the indelicacy, my “elimination” was liquified anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes after taking the solution.
That is very abnormal for me, but I feel like it was the salt water doing its job. I felt really good afterward. Make sure you don’t have to be in any meetings and know where a bathroom is during this timeframe. When it hits you, don’t waste any time and get to your bathroom. This video explains the phenomenon I likely experienced (it is forwarded to where he talks about it, you can rewind for his whole routine).
Everything tastes really salty for the rest of the morning, but it gradually fades. I felt very hydrated the rest of the day and I also noticed that I had less mucus in the back of my throat most of the day.
I don’t think I can do the full dose of Himalayan salt water every day (especially if I have places to be), but I do think I will incorporate it 2 or 3 times a week and then experiment with a more diluted Sole Water solution for daily maintenance. I currently take Quinton Isotonic Water before bed and I think this solution may be able to replace the expense of Quinton.
What is Himalayan Salt Water?
Himalayan salt is a type of rock salt mined from the Punjab region of Pakistan, close to the Himalayas. It’s known for its pink color, which is a result of the variety of minerals it contains. When this salt is dissolved in water, we get Himalayan salt water.
Nutritional Profile of Himalayan Salt Water
The solution is a treasure trove of essential minerals. It comprises 84 trace minerals that your body needs for various functions. These include calcium, potassium, magnesium, and, of course, sodium. When these minerals are consumed in the form of a water solution, they are absorbed more rapidly and effectively by the body.
| Mineral | Role in the Body |
|---|---|
| Sodium | Regulates fluids, aids nerve transmission |
| Potassium | Regulates heart function, balances fluids |
| Magnesium | Supports muscle function, aids nerve function |
| Calcium | Essential for bone health, aids in blood clotting |
Top Health Benefits of Drinking Himalayan Salt Water
Drinking the solution comes with a host of health benefits. Here are some of the top reasons you might want to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Enhancing Energy Levels and Body Absorption Rate
Himalayan salt water can boost your energy levels. The minerals it contains are easily absorbed, providing a quick pick-me-up when you need it most.
Balancing Body’s pH and Aiding in Detoxification
This unique salt solution can help balance your body’s pH by removing toxins, contributing to better overall health.
Improving Respiratory Health
Himalayan salt is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can aid in loosening excessive mucus and speeding up mucus clearance, potentially improving various respiratory conditions.
Stimulating the Digestive System
Drinking the solution on an empty stomach can stimulate peristalsis – the movement within your digestive system. It helps to balance stomach acid, supporting digestive enzyme production. This may be what I experienced.
Alleviating Muscle Soreness and Body Aches
For those struggling with body aches or muscle soreness, salt water could be a game changer. The minerals in it can help to alleviate muscle cramps and relieve aches.
Boosting Hydration and Electrolyte Balance
Himalayan salt water is excellent for hydration. It provides your body with essential electrolytes, helping to regulate your body’s hydration balance.
Supporting Blood Pressure Regulation
For individuals suffering from high blood pressure, the solution can help clear out excess sodium, thereby reducing water retention and easing the heart’s workload.
Aiding in Weight Management and Bloating Relief
If you’re feeling bloated, Himalayan salt water can stimulate your bowels and empty your colon, helping you shed excess fluid and lose weight. Mine were definitely stimulated.
Providing Relief for Sore Throats
If you have a sore throat, gargling with the solution several times a day can provide relief. It helps to remove mucus, ease the pain, and expedite healing.
Reducing Stress Hormones for Better Sleep
Himalayan salt has been shown to reduce stress hormones, aiding in relaxation and promoting a deeper and more restful sleep. I track my sleep with an Oura ring and a Whoop band and saw a couple of good scores on days I drank the salt water solution. My HRV scores were higher (good) than I have ever recorded (Tuesday) with my Whoop (pictures below).
Clearing Skin Conditions Through Detoxification
If you’re dealing with acne or other skin conditions, Himalayan salt can help clear your skin. It assists in the detoxification process, improving your skin health.
Potential Side Effects of Drinking Himalayan Salt Water
Like any remedy, moderation is key. Overconsumption of Himalayan salt water could lead to excessive sodium intake, which may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, like hypertension. As always, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new health regimen.
Conclusion
As our understanding of health and nutrition evolves, we often find ourselves circling back to the simple remedies provided by nature.
The health benefits of Himalayan salt water outstripped the negatives in my experience. I felt some boost of energy, had less mucus, and was better hydrated on the days I drank it. Remember, though, that it should be used as part of a balanced diet and not a substitute for medical advice.
Troy Wallace
Troy Wallace is Certified Basketball Speed Specialist and shares his experiences in trying to stay as healthy as possible to stay on the court. He is active in coaching youth basketball in YMCA, Team Work Sports Nebraska, and, currently, in the Jr. Warriors program in Omaha, NE. Visit Troy's Full Author Bio Page or email him directly.
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