Halotherapy is an alternative treatment that involves breathing in air derived from microscopic salt particles. Some claim that it can treat respiratory conditions, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and allergies. It has also been suggested that Halo treatments can ease smoking-related symptoms, such as a cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing.

Salt caves are common in Eastern Europe and a popular site for halotherapy. In the 1800s, a Polish doctor noticed that salt mine workers had fewer respiratory concerns than other miners. A German doctor also noted respiratory health benefits in people spending time in salt caves. With a rapid growth in the wellness sector, salt chambers became popular forms of therapy in the 1950s and 1960s in Europe and just now are beginning to emerge as a recognized form of holistic alternative therapy in the U.S.

Halotherapy and speleotherapy are types of dry salt therapies. Speleotherapy takes place in natural underground caves that contain salt.

Halotherapy also known as an active salt room uses an artificial environment to create the same effect. Halotherapy consists of spreading tiny particles of salt into the air in a concentrated environment. The salt usually contains a mixture of different minerals, including:

• Sodium chloride
• Manganese
• Calcium
• Sulfates