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Himalayan Salt Lamps Information

 

What are Himalayan Salt Lamps? 

      Himalayan salt is a natural deposit of rock salt mined in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. These deposits can range in color from light orange to dark pink with some crystals that may have a translucent color. Salt lamps are ancient rocks hollowed out for the use of a candle or a light bulb. These salt lamps are attractive to most because they release negative ions, which are believed to have health benefits.

      While the sea and the mountain air both contain large numbers of negative ions, the heat provided from the light source as well as the size of the lamp may affect the amount of negative ions produced by Himalayan salt lamps. A larger crystal is likely to emit more negative ions than a smaller one, and a salt lamp that produces a candle-like glow would emit negative ions that affect a much smaller space such as the area around a work desk. 

Where do Salt Lamps come from?

      Products of salt crystals come from many sources around the globe; however, the finest quality salt is found in certain areas and mines among the Himalayan foothills of Pakistan. This salt was discovered during the time of Alexander the Great around 327 B.C. Today, there are four major salt crystal mines in Pakistan.

      The oldest and largest salt mine in the entire region is the Khewra. This popular tourist attraction has over 25 miles of developed length with salt crystals that range in color from dark red and pink to white and transparent. The second major salt mine is the Kalabagh mine found along the Indus River. This mine contains 13 different types of salt strata of various shades with some chambers more than 260ft deep. This mine is also known as the primary source mine. Third is the Warcha mine, which contains very crystalline and transparent salt deposits that are most popular for fine and edible salt used in cooking and dining. Fourth is the Jatta/Bahadurkheil mine. This is the youngest of the four mines and contains white to light and dark gray salt. As lamps, these salts emit less light because of their density and color, which appear in numerous shades of blue, green, yellow, and white. 

What are Himalayan Salt Lamp Benefits?

      There are many different beliefs about the health benefits of salt lamps. One is speleotherapy, or the use of certain conditions of caves and mines to cure several diseases, particularly respiratory diseases. The cave’s low level of dust is thought to greatly reduce allergic reactions or asthmatic attacks. Irritation and the symptoms of the diseases are also reduced or eliminated completely while the patient is in the cave. Since Himalayan salt lamps emit negative ions that come from the salt crystals, people who suffer from allergies are said to benefit significantly from the exposure to the clean and naturally ionized air.

      Natural Himalayan salt lamps are thought to reduce stress, feelings of fatigue and insomnia, symptoms of asthma, allergies, bronchitis, sinusitis, and respiratory disease as well as relieve headaches and migraines, improve air quality as a result of reducing dust particles and viruses, and reduce SAD and other mood problems.

      For maximum benefits, consider placing your salt lamp in the bedroom to help with clearing sinuses during the night when the body’s defense system is most relaxed. This also helps intensify your sleep experience.  

Where to Place Your Salt Lamp?

At home

Place your salt lamp in areas where you want to create a cozy, tranquil, and serene atmosphere such as in a bedroom, living room, or hallway. 

For meditation

When you are in a state of peace and quiet, a salt lamp near you is said to increase your meditation experience. Yoga and other meditation practices are perfect for testing out your salt lamp. 

In your office

Place your salt lamp near your computer to help increase concentration. This also reduces fatigue and electromagnetic pollution, or EMF pollution that comes from office equipment.  

Massage rooms

This will create a soothing and refreshing environment which will help you maintain and enhance your state of relaxation. 

Care and Precautions 

      Himalayan salt crystals are hygroscopic, meaning they attract moisture in the surrounding environment through absorption. Heating your salt lamp by turning it on regularly will prevent moisture buildup. Humid environments for salt lamps should not be a problem; however, if you are planning to store your lamp in a humid environment for long periods of time, sealing it in a plastic bag is recommended.

      Never turn on your lamp with wet hands or place it near water. When changing light bulbs, use caution and do not leave cords out where pets and children can reach them. Due to its natural salt content, pets may be compelled to lick the lamp. While these lamps are 100% natural and completely non-toxic, it is not recommended.

      To avoid grimy buildup, dust your salt lamp often. Make sure all electronic components are removed prior to any other necessary methods of cleaning. After wiping the lamp with a wet cloth, wait until it is completely dry before replacing all electrical parts.