Halotherapy: A Resurgence of a proven Wellness Treatment - Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Magazine #100

Halotherapy: A Resurgence of a Proven Wellness Treatment

Halotherapy, also known as Salt Therapy, is one the noted recent international trends, making headlines, as a Spa Therapy of choice.

Salt therapy originated in Eastern Europe in the 12th century, and involved spending time in naturally occurring salt caves (speleotherapy). Used for centuries for healing and wellness benefits, salt therapy has recently enjoyed a worldwide surge in popularity among spas and wellness centres. Today, clients enjoy salt modalities like halotherapy, Himalayan salt brick walls, salt stone massage treatments and floating.

Halotherapy comes from the Greek word 'Halo,' meaning Salt. In 1843 a doctor in Poland, Feliks Boczowski, discovered that there were certain salt mine workers who rarely got sick. Unlike other miners, who often had respiratory issues from being exposed to toxic particles, these particular miners had better respiration, and even looked younger than their actual age. They worked in the Wieliczka Salt mines. By the early 1900's, Dr. Feliks Boczowski started sending his respiratory patients down into those salt mines. While the miners were working, fine particles of salt were inhaled by the patients, and they saw incredible improvement in their respiratory health.

In 1958, these salt mines became a health resort, helping patients gain better immune function and protection from colds, the flu, and other contagious illnesses. In 1976, Russian doctors and scientists created a halogenerator, which would crush the salt

and diffuse the particles into the air, just like in the salt mines. This was the beginning of the halotherapy rooms we see today.

Halotharapy, is a holistic wellness practice that involves spending time in a room or chamber filled with dry salt particles. The dry, “active” method is conducted in man-made, humidity-free salt rooms/caves where precise micro-particles of salt are actively dispersed. The Salt Room or Salt Caves are typically constructed with walls and floors covered in salt, and the air is infused with a fine salt aerosol.

Himalayan salt saunas include himalayan salt walls, panels, salt bricks or tiles. These salt walls are often backlit with coloured lights to create a warm and visually appealing ambiance. As the sauna heats up, the salt walls release negative ions, which have various health benefits and enhance the overall experience.

Many people report positive experiences with halotherapy. Additionally the Global Wellness Institute conducted a survey as as part of their Exploring Salt & Halotherapy Initiative 2023, interviewing over 5000 guests, who attended a halotheray session, with more than an overwhelming positive response, and 99% of people stating they enjoyed the experience.

Key Benefits:

Improved Respiratory Health: Halotherapy is often used as a complementary therapy for

respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. It is believed to help reduce inflammation, promote mucus clearance, and ease breathing.

Skin Conditions: Some people use halotherapy to alleviate skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. The salt particles are thought to have exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit the skin.

Stress Reduction: Salt rooms are often designed to provide a tranquil and relaxing environment, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Enhanced Immunity: Advocates suggest that halotherapy may boost the immune system by reducing inflammation and promoting overall wellbeing.

Precautions and Recommendations:

The South African Spa Association advises Halotherapy should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment, and individuals with serious health conditions should consult with healthcare professionals before trying it. Additionally, it's important to choose reputable halotherapy facilities that maintain proper hygiene and use pharmaceutical-grade salt to ensure safety and effectiveness.