Sodium chloride used for a variety of purposes is a powerful antibacterial substance that inhibits the growth and multiplying of bacteria by reducing the amount of water present. Halotherapy, also known as salt therapy treatments, uses microparticles of sodium chloride that work their way into the body. These salt particles can be smaller than 1 micron, which is 1/1,000 of a millimeter. In a salt room, the inhaled microparticles of salt travel throughout the sinuses into the respiratory system, absorbing allergens, toxins and foreign substances, as well as ridding the body of harmful bacteria and reducing inflammation.

The negative ions in salt stimulate airway linings, improving mucous clearance and improving immune response to pathogens. Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions generally lack sodium chloride in their airway linings, and salt therapy helps resolve this deficiency. It alleviates symptoms, helps prevent them from reoccurring, and reduces dependence on medications like nasal sprays and inhalers.

With antiviral and antifungal properties as well, salt therapy is considered therapeutic in its ability to shorten the duration of an illness, reduce symptoms and possibly help prevent illness. Using halotherapy on a regular basis may work to keep an individual healthier by cleansing the respiratory system and killing some of the germs that may have not yet found their way into the bloodstream.

Dariusz Klentak and Magdalena Bykowska are owners of Salt Therapy Grotto, which offers two salt grottos, infrared sauna and a red light therapy bed, located in Cambridge Square Plaza, 3443 Pine Ridge Rd., Ste. 102, in Naples. For more information, call 239-598-0990 or visit SaltTherapyGrotto.com.