You’ve probably seen them lining the shelves at Whole Foods or your local organic Co-op. Maybe advertisements promoting their wellness benefits have popped up along your browser. The Himalayan Salt Lamp is one of those buzzy items that, in the past year, has taken the wellness industry by storm.
The claims of health benefits are many and varied, ranging from things like air purification to promoting more restful sleep. And if you’re feeling a little skeptical, that’s understandable––many people are! It does appear to be, after all, a large chunk of minerals. While not medically proven, it turns out that these salty lamps can provide some wellness benefits.
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Carved from a solid piece of mineral-rich (think: magnesium, potassium, and zinc) Himalayan salt, which has that sultry, soft pink hue, these trendy lamps are just that: a big chunk of salt with a light bulb placed inside. Before we even get into the health benefits, just take a look at that beautiful, soothing glow that the lamps emit. Talk about ambiance. We love this one from Urban Luxe, made from hand-chiseled crystal salt in a pyramid shape––a great statement piece for a kitchen or living room.
The number one thing that sellers of the lamps tout, aside from seriously elevated relaxation, is the lamp’s ability to potentially alter the electrical charges of the air circulating in your home because it is a natural ionizer. So, because it may produce beneficial ions, the Himalayan salt lamp may have a similar effect on the air as a waterfall or a storm.
Historically, salt lamps are said to be of great benefit to those dealing with respiratory problems, like allergies or asthma. This theory is largely based in the philosophies surrounding halotherapy, a therapy that suggests people struggling with respiratory challenges spend time in salt caves.
While there isn’t any hard scientific evidence about the effects of these salt lamps on sleep quality just yet, it has been suggested that the soft glow of the pink salt lamps can promote relaxation and stress release toward the end of the day. In the evening before bed, try replacing your electric or fluorescent lights with a salt lamp, allowing your mind to calm down slowly before easing into darkness. This lamp from Abient Salt Company, handmade in the Khewra Salt Mines of Pakistan, is a perfect size and shape for a bedside table, and emits that irresistible, tranquil warm glow .
If you’re interested in testing out different colors of salt lamps, this lamp from Urban Outfitters comes in both white and orange, and it’s suggested that you try out different colored light bulbs to alter the shade of the glow.
Regardless of whether or not the salt lamp's health benefits are more than mild, accenting your house’s interior with these stunning statement pieces is sure to bring all sorts of good vibes into your home.
