Salt is more than just a seasoning, it’s essential for health and wellness. But not all salts are created equal. Among the most popular alternatives to refined table salt are Celtic salt and Himalayan salt, two mineral-rich options known for their unique colours, textures, and health-promoting properties. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between these two natural salts and their potential benefits for your body.
What is Celtic Salt?
Celtic salt, also known as Celtic sea salt, is a moist, grey-coloured unrefined sea salt that originates from the Celtic Sea region in Brittany, France. It is harvested using traditional methods that involve evaporating seawater from clay-lined salt ponds. It is a moist and slightly coarse texture. This natural process helps preserve the salt’s rich mineral content, which includes:
-
34 trace elements
-
80 trace minerals
-
Magnesium, calcium, potassium, chloride, and sodium
Celtic salt contains around 32% sodium and 50% chloride, making it lower in sodium than table salt and even Himalayan salt, while providing vital electrolytes and minerals.
What is Himalayan Salt?
Himalayan salt is a pink-hued rock salt mined exclusively from Pakistan, near the foothills of the Himalayas. It’s often sold in forms ranging from coarse crystals to finely ground powder, and should be stored in airtight containers to preserve its natural properties.
Himalayan salt boasts over 80 trace minerals, including:
-
Sodium
-
Potassium
-
Magnesium
-
Calcium
-
Iron (which gives it its pink colour)
While it’s chemically similar to table salt in sodium content, the mineral diversity in Himalayan salt gives it a more complex flavour and an appealing colour that adds visual appeal to dishes.
Both Celtic and Himalayan salt offer more than flavour, they provide potential health advantages when used in moderation.
Celtic Salt: The Hydration Hero
Celtic salt is often referred to as "The Mineral-Rich Super Salt" due to its broad range of essential minerals. Here’s how it supports your body:
1. Electrolyte Balance & Hydration
Thanks to its content of magnesium, potassium, and chloride, Celtic salt helps regulate fluid levels in your body and maintain electrolyte balance. This is especially beneficial for athletes or anyone prone to dehydration.
2. Muscle Relaxation & Cramp Relief
Magnesium and potassium are crucial for nerve signalling and muscle function. Celtic salt’s high magnesium content may help reduce muscle cramps, spasms, and support muscle relaxation.
3. Digestive Health
The chloride in Celtic salt supports the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, essential for breaking down food. It may stimulate saliva and gastric juice, improving digestion and reducing bloating and constipation.
4. Bone & Energy Support
Minerals like calcium and magnesium play a key role in bone health and energy production, helping the body maintain strong bones and efficient metabolism.
Important Note: Celtic salt still contains sodium, so excessive use may contribute to high blood pressure or fluid retention in sensitive individuals.
Himalayan Salt: The Mineral-Rich Rock Salt
Though often marketed as the purest salt, Himalayan pink salt also has genuine wellness perks:
1. Muscle Function & Fluid Balance
Himalayan salt is rich in sodium, potassium, and magnesium, all of which support muscle contractions and electrolyte balance. These minerals are often included in electrolyte drinks to help with physical recovery.
2. Proper Hydration
Sodium and potassium work together to ensure optimal fluid levels in the body’s cells, blood plasma, and extracellular fluid, crucial for overall hydration.
3. Respiratory Health (Anecdotal)
Some people use Himalayan salt lamps or salt therapy (halotherapy) to improve air quality or respiratory health. While anecdotal evidence suggests benefits, scientific studies remain limited.
Important Note: Himalayan salt also contains sodium, so moderation is key. Also, while it contains trace minerals, the quantities are small, and scientific backing is limited compared to other nutrient sources.
Celtic vs Himalayan Salt: Key Differences at a Glance
Final Thoughts: Which Salt Should You Choose?
-
Choose Celtic salt if you're looking for a moist, mineral-rich salt that supports hydration, digestion, and muscle health, especially if you’re active or experience muscle cramps or digestive discomfort.
-
Opt for Himalayan salt if you prefer a dry, beautiful pink salt that’s versatile in cooking and also offers electrolyte support and muscle benefits.
Remember: Both salts offer natural minerals that refined table salt lacks, but they still contain sodium, so use them mindfully season for health, not excess.
