Salt cave
History: Where does the salt cave come from?
The origins of today's salt cave can be traced back to natural salt mines.
As early as the 19th century, the Polish doctor Feliks Boczkowski noticed that workers in the Wieliczka salt mine suffered less frequently from respiratory diseases.
This observation led to the development of so-called halotherapy - a form of treatment that uses the microclimate of salty caves for therapeutic purposes.
Artificial salt chambers for treatment outside of mines were later created based on this.
Characteristics: What makes a salt cave special?
A salt cave is a room whose walls and floors are lined with natural salt crystals - e.g. from the Himalayas or the Dead Sea. The room has a constant temperature of around 20 °C. The air is enriched with fine salt aerosols, which are absorbed both through the respiratory tract and the skin.
Minerals contained in salt crystals:
- Iodine - supports thyroid function
- Calcium - strengthens the immune system
- Magnesium - has a regulating effect on the cardiovascular system
- Iron, copper, sodium, potassium, chloride - contribute to the general cell metabolism
- Selenium - is considered a skin-protecting trace element with antioxidant properties
Differences to other types: What distinguishes a salt cave from comparable treatments?
The most famous salt caves in the world
How it works: How does a salt cave work?
The stay in a salt cave takes place in comfortable clothing and without shoes. Guests sit on loungers, usually with a blanket, and spend around 45 to 50 minutes in the room. The effect is achieved by inhaling the salty air and absorbing it through the skin. During the session, there is absolute silence to promote relaxation and deeper breathing.
Etiquette: How should you behave in a salt cave?
- Keep quiet: Conversations and noises are undesirable
- Comply with hygiene regulations: Light/white socks are compulsory in many facilities
- No shoes: The grotto is entered barefoot or with overshoes
Indications: How does a salt cave work?
The effect is based on the fine salt air (salt aerosols), which can have an expectorant, anti-inflammatory and soothing effect on the respiratory tract and skin. Studies have shown positive effects, particularly for chronic respiratory diseases.
Other potential areas of application:
- Chronic bronchitis
- Atopic eczema and psoriasis
- Stress symptoms and sleep disorders
- Pollen allergy (hay fever)
Contraindications: What are the side effects of a stay in an ice grotto?
Particularly sensitive people may experience a dry irritating cough. People with claustrophobia (claustrophobia) should refrain from visiting, as salt caves are usually small, enclosed spaces.
Conclusion
The most important facts about the salt cave at a glance
- 1. A salt cave is an artificially created room whose walls are lined with salt crystals.
- 2. The microclimate in a salt room is beneficial for the lungs and skin.
- 3. A stay in a brine grotto lasts 50 minutes for adults. Up to 25 minutes is recommended for children.
- 4. You enter a salt chamber clothed, but without shoes.
FAQ - Further questions about the salt cave
Depending on the provider, prices range from 10 to 25 euros per session (approx. 50 minutes).
For acute complaints, 4-5 sessions per week are recommended. For prevention, 1-2 sessions per week are sufficient.
Comfortable clothing is recommended, shoes must be removed.
Yes, many salt caves offer shortened children's sessions (20-25 minutes).