Himalayan Pink
Salt is found in the foothills of the Himalayas.
Himalayan pink salt is the generic name for halite, or rock salt, mined in the Khewra Salt Mines, which are located in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains northeast of Lahore. The salt mine is the second-largest salt mine in the world and the oldest in Asia, having been mined for more than 2,000 years. The salt can range in color from pure white to a deep red; pink is most common. Add this to my Recipe Box.
The Source
The halite beds where Himalayan pink salt is harvested was formed from marine deposits during the Jurassic era more than 250 million years ago. The salt has been a valuable commodity for many years. Residents use it to preserve meat and fish. The salt is extracted, crushed and washed entirely by hand. It dries in the sun before being packed for distribution.
Constitution
Himalayan pink salt is more than 98 percent sodium chloride. Besides the sodium and chlorine, other common elements in the salt are magnesium, potassium, manganese, zinc, iron, calcium, boron, copper, selenium and chromium, as well as other trace elements. The salt gets its pink color from traces of iron.
Beneficial Properties
The salt is said to support good nutrient absorption and balance electrolytes, settle the body's pH, get rid of toxins, increase the blood's circulation and normalize the blood pressure. Taking a teaspoon in a glass of water first thing in the morning is also said to help osteoporosis, rheumatism, gall bladder stones, gout and kidney stones.
Culinery uses
Himalayan pink salt can be found in most health food stores. The crystals come in many different sizes. The crystals are generally pure and not contaminated by any artificial chemicals. Chefs use the salt in gourmet cooking as a replacement for common salt.
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