Halotherapy
Halotherapy

Background

Halotherapy, or treatment with salt, comes from the Greek word "halos," which means salt. Halotherapy involves man-made structures that replicate the environment of the salt caves of speleotherapy and is considered a natural, non-invasive treatment. Speleotherapy comes from the Greek word "speleo," for cave, and refers to salt-lined caves where patients would sit.

People use this for...

Halotherapy has been used for asthma, bronchitis, eczema, psoriasis, and sinusitis.

There is insufficient reliable evidence about the efficacy of halotherapy.

Natural Medicines rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.

Dosing & administration

    Adverse effects

    General: Some reports indicate that side effects from halotherapy may include pruritis, conjunctivitis, throat irritation, and mild sedation.

    Pulmonary/Respiratory: Throat irritation has been reported after halotherapy.

    Ocular/Otic: Conjunctivitis has been reported after halotherapy.

    Neurologic/CNS: Mild sedation has been reported after halotherapy.

    Dermatologic: Pruritis has been reported after halotherapy.

    Interactions with pharmaceuticals

    None known.

    Interactions with herbs & supplements

    None known.

    Interactions with foods

    None known.

    Interactions with lab tests

    Interactions with diseases

    Mechanism of action

    It is theorized that the salt used in halotherapy may help maintain air humidity and eliminate bacteria. Inhaling tiny aerosolized particles of salt is purported to help clear mucus in the airway and prevent inflammation. These properties are believed by some to improve respiratory conditions and relieve some skin conditions.

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    This monograph was last reviewed on 05/05/2015 17:04:41 and last updated on 05/05/2015 00:23:47. Monographs are reviewed and/or updated multiple times per month and at least once per year.
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