Impact of Himalayan Salt Wall on Serotonin: Soothing the Mind with Salt Bricks

Himalayan salt walls have gained popularity recently with their numerous beneficial properties. From medical experts to spas, luxury hotels, and destination resorts these walls and Himalayan salt bricks are gaining more and more spotlight. In this article, we will delve into what science has to say about it and its effect on Serotonin, explore the benefits, scientific background, people reviews, installation, and much more.

But before we dig into it, let us understand Himalayan Salt and Serotonin.

What is Himalayan Pink Salt?

Himalayan pink salt is a rock salt mined from the Himalayan region of Punjab, Pakistan. The traces of other minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, etc., give it a pink tint. It is said to be the purest salt with 84 naturally occurring minerals, and 96% to 99% presence of sodium chloride (NaCl).

Himalayan pink salt is frequently utilized in culinary and therapeutic applications, such as lamps and walls. People also use Himalayan salt bricks for their animals for health purposes.

Understanding Serotonin

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter; roughly speaking, it carries signals from brain to body and body to brain. It has multiple functions in our body that are related to happiness, hunger, influencing learning, memory, sexual behavior, sleep cycle, and regulating body temperature.

Serotonin is also known as the “Feel good” hormone; people usually confuse it with dopamine. Studies say that Serotonin increases happiness by alleviating depression and anxiety. The optimal presence of Serotonin is essential for mental health and overall wellness, and a low level of this chemical can create health problems.

How Himalayan Salt Wall Works?

Himalayan Salt bricks are carved from solid blocks of Himalayan salt. These bricks are then stacked on one other to build a wall-like structure. These walls are gently heated by any light source, such as LED, and let the moisture condense on the salt blocks or Himalayan salt bricks, producing negative ions.

These ions purify the air by neutralizing the positive ions in the air, which electric appliances emit in bulk.

In most Saunas and Spas, Himalayan salt wall is installed for the health-reaping experience of the people visiting the place. People also install these walls in their personal spaces for aesthetic interior purposes.

Impact of Himalayan Salt Walls on Serotonin

People have grown their interest in Himalayan salt wall because of their health benefits, such as stress reduction, energy increase, good sleep cycle, and mood-boosting.

Negative ions are known to have a calming effect on humans, and they are naturally found in nature, such as in waterfalls, ocean surfaces, beaches, forests, and mountains.

When these negative ions reach the bloodstream, they start a biochemical reaction that increases the level of Serotonin. Thus, the increased level of this chemical soothes the mind, fights negative energy, and gives a calming sensation.

Scientific Studies on Serotonin, Negative Ions, and Himalayan Salt

There are scientific claims that prove the hypotheses of people claiming that Himalayan salt wall has an impact on serotonin, and by extension, their mental health.

Serotonin and Mental Health 

Many studies on Serotonin proved that fluctuation in this particular neurotransmitter’s level could affect a person’s mental health. A research paper published by NIH has supported this claim saying

“Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) plays an important role in vulnerability to and precipitation of depression and mania” (https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1991-24477-001)

Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression. Many medications used to treat anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders often target ways to increase the level of serotonin in your brain.

Negative Ions and Human Behavior 

Ions in the air can affect human behavior and mood. Electrical appliances produce positive ions in bulk, and these ions have the ability to crack mood or have a negative effect on human behavior.

On the other hand, studies on negative ions and human behavior showed that people exposed to negative ions show a low rate of depression and anxiety.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3598548/

Himalayan Salt, Negative Ions, and Mental Health

We have also found that some studies in recent years claim that Himalayan salt walls produce negative ions but not as much as they are found naturally (Journal Human Kinetics). Another study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology in 2019 found that participants reported feeling more relaxed and calm in a room with a Himalayan salt wall compared to a room without one.

However, it's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between Himalayan salt wall and Serotonin in humans and to determine the optimal conditions and duration of exposure for potential benefits.

People Experience and Reviews

Although limited research has been done on the impact of Himalayan salt wall on Serotonin, many people came forward. They claimed that Himalayan salt wall had helped them soothe their minds and increase their happiness.

One of the many users of Himalayan salt products shared her experience online and wrote 

“I leave it on low overnight on the bedside table and I have never slept so well!”

Another user wrote 

“The soothing color of the light and warmth of the salt lightens the mood and keeps the bad vibes away.”

Many doctors have also shared that their patients are showing good recovery rates with the help of Himalayan salt.

Himalayan Salt Wall Installation and Maintenance

To install the Himalayan salt wall properly, carefully consider the related facts, such as the space where you will install it, the position of the light source, and the type of Himalayan salt bricks. It is a good idea to build the wall indoors. Following proper installation guidelines provided by a qualified professional or manufacturer to ensure safety and effectiveness is also essential.

Himalayan salt wall often requires surface cleaning occasionally to remove dust and debris. The light source's proper functioning is also important for the salt wall to emit optimal release of negative ions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, though there is no potential scientific evidence that directly links the Himalayan salt wall’s effect on Serotonin, several studies prove the direct link between negative ions and Serotonin. Contrary to science, many people supported the claim that the Himalayan salt walls can give a calming sensation and easiness of mind.

Following the studies on Serotonin influencing mental health, negative ions increase the serotonin level, and Himalayan salt wall, when heated, produce the negative. We can argue that those who report feeling happier around these walls have a scientific basis for their claims.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Himalayan Salt Walls Safe to Use?

Yes, Himalayan salt walls are completely safe to use when installed and maintained carefully. However, it's important to follow manufacturer guidelines and consult with professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness.

2. Are Himalayan Salt Bricks Edible?

No, the salt bricks used in Himalayan salt walls are not food-grade and should not be ingested.

3. Can Himalayan Salt Walls Cure Mental Health?

Although there is no potential evidence from scientific studies that say Himalayan salt walls can cure mental health but we have enough evidence that they may have the potential for mood enhancement. It is important to approach mental health concerns with qualified healthcare professionals and not rely solely on salt walls for treatment.