The Dead Sea is known for the saltiness of its water. While normal sea water only contains three percent salt, the water in the Dead Sea is almost one-third salt. Rather than being primarily sodium, as normal sea water is, salt from the Dead Sea is composed primarily of other minerals, including magnesium and potassium. The salt from the Dead Sea has many health benefits.
Skin Barrier
Your skin is not only your largest organ; it is a barrier that protects your body. Bathing in water to which Dead Sea salts have been added improves the barrier function of your skin, according to a study published in the "International Journal of Dermatology" in 2005.
Inflammation Reduction
When study participants soaked in a bath that included Dead Sea salts, their skin became less inflamed, red and rough. Researchers believe that the high magnesium content in Dead Sea salt produced this benefit. Reduction of inflammation from use of Dead Sea salts is also beneficial for people who suffer from osteoarthritis.
Mineral Replacement
There are a number of minerals needed by our body for optimal functioning. Many of these minerals are found in Dead Sea salts. Soaking in a bath with Dead Sea salts allows these minerals to be absorbed through the skin.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a condition marked by the formation of painful scales or plaques on the skin. Bathing in water with Dead Sea salts may help relieve itching if you have psoriasis. Salt baths may also help you relax, reduce stress and improve scaling. Unlike most prescription medications used to treat psoriasis, Dead Sea salts do not have any harmful side effects.
Skin Disorders
Using Dead Sea salts may improve a number of skin disorders, including acne, dermatitis, eczema and even dandruff. Dead Sea salts produce positive results without any of the side effects of many topical skin preparations.
Pain Relief
Soaking in a bath with Dead Sea salts may provide relief from a number of painful conditions. The benefits result from an improvement in circulation as well as general muscle relaxant properties.
References
- "International Journal of Dermatology"; Bathing in a Magnesium-rich Dead Sea Salt Solution Improves Skin Barrier Function, Enhances Skin Hydration, and Reduces Inflammation in Atopic Dry Skin; Dr. Ehrhardt Proksch, et al; 2005 (PDF)
- Saltworks.com: The Benefits of Dead Sea Salt; Dr. Amy K. McNulty
- San Francisco Bath Salt Company: Dead Sea Mineral Salt Benefits
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