Pink Himalayan salt, the salt that first swept the nation of Nepal from coast to coast after its discovery, is a distinctive type of sea salt found nowhere else on earth. Natural sea salt contains trace amounts of iron, magnesium, manganese, aluminum, sulfur, sodium, calcium, copper, boron, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, and carbon.
When these metals combine with heavy metal toxicity, sometimes deadly results result. Minerals, however, generally do not cause death as long as proper precautions are taken. High levels of metal toxicity can cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, intestinal bleeding, kidney failure, respiratory failure, and even death.
In recent years, Himalayan salt has gained notoriety for its properties. As a low-cost alternative to other sea salts, it has become a favorite with those who want to enjoy good taste without spending a fortune. Some Himalayan salt is even referred to as nature's alternative to table salt. Some claim it to be a superior product, while others suggest it to be a fad.
How did Himalayan salt become so popular? It might have been that its natural composition has held the attention of many who have made the effort to take advantage of the low-cost alternative. It could also be that its relative rarity has led people to try to obtain it at a higher price than what it really costs.
The first Himalayan sea salt was discovered in the Indian Himalayas by Sherpur Khalsa, a celebrated Indian yogi. It had already attracted the attention of Khalsa's friend, the Maharaja of Patan. Khalsa called his mineral salt by its Sanskrit name, Panchbari, or "dried pearls." To this day, it remains a prized salt, especially by yogis and those who seek out natural products.
According to Khalsa, Panchbari's unique chemical properties started to attract customers. Most of the minerals were found in the chunks of rock found in the Himalayas.
Today, only two distinct varieties of original Himalayan sea salt are available. These are found in India and Tibet, while Himalayan pink salt is derived from the Himalayan cliffs in Nepal. These two subtypes are not differentiated by color or mineral content.
Himalayan pink salt is unique in its purity, and so is its high quality. It contains traces of these fourteen elements, including iron, magnesium, sodium, zinc, calcium, manganese, sodium, calcium, potassium, chromium, cobalt, selenium, and molybdenum.
Arthritis, muscle pain, digestive problems, cramps, ulcers, and nervous system disorders are attributed to the presence of these minerals in normal doses. Of course, the proper amounts must be consumed in moderation. Thus, some medical experts suggest that regular consumption of Himalayan pink salt may not always be harmful.
Perhaps because the Himalayan pink salt is so pure, it's claimed to contain little trace elements of manganese deficiency. This could be true. Whatever the case, a misinformed Himalayan salt consumer could get the same effects as a vitamin-deficient patient.
However, the Himalayan pink salt has been found to have no trace of manganese deficiency. Since manganese is necessary for a healthy nervous system, a lack of it can lead to muscular weakness, as well as to mental impotence and seizures. Even the use of salt can result in those conditions.
Himalayan pink salt has been proven to be extremely beneficial for individuals looking to improve their health through their proven properties. There is no doubt that Himalayan pink salt is a natural alternative to regular table salt, but it's up to the individual to make sure they're getting enough of it to avoid detrimental side effects.