Do you want to know the difference between Himalayan and Celtic salt, and which is better for you? In today’s blog post, I’ll help you know all about these two salt types. So, let’s learn without further ado.
What is the Primary Difference Between Himalayan Salt and Celtic Salt?
Known for its higher mineral content, Himalayan salt is mined from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan. It offers a mild flavor with over 80 trace minerals. Celtic salt, on the other hand, is harvested from French coastal regions and has a stronger, more pronounced salty taste with fewer minerals. However, contrary to exaggerated claims, Himalayan salt doesn’t differ from celtic sea salt significantly: there’s negligible health benefit from the minimal mineral content.
Himalayan Salt vs. Celtic Sea Salt: A Quick Overview
| Features | Himalayan Salt | Celtic Salt |
| Other Names | Rock salt, halite, saindhava lavana, or pink salt | Sal Celta, Sel gris or gray salt |
| Origin | Mined from the Khewra Salt Mine in the Himalayan region of Pakistan | Harvested from the coastal regions of France, particularly the Celtic Sea |
| Color | Pink, white, red, or variations thereof, depending on mineral impurities | Grayish or light gray with a slightly moist texture |
| Flavor | Mild and subtle flavor, not overly salty | Stronger, more pronounced salty taste |
| Minerals | Contains over 80 trace minerals | Contains fewer minerals, up to 34 only |
| Moisture Content | Generally dry | Slightly moist texture |
| Texture | Crunchy and coarse texture, typically in larger granules or chunks | Flaky texture |
| Uses | Cooking, baking, garnishing, salt lamps, salt therapy | Cooking, baking, garnishing |
| Processing | Minimal processing | Minimal processing |
| Availability | Widely available in various forms (granules, chunks, fine grind) | Available but may be less commonly found compared to Himalayan salt |
| Cost | Less pricey | Pricey |
Himalayan Salt vs. Celtic Salt: Mineral Composition Comparison
Since the primary difference between Himalayan salt and Celitc slat is their chemical composition, it’s impossible to go ahead without knowing their mineral and nutrient composition. Here is a detailed overview of their composition.
| Nutrient | Himalayan Salt | Celtic Salt |
| Sodium | In addition to minerals, the Celcti salt has 5.6 % water in it. | 33% |
| Chloride | 1.8% | 50.9% |
| Magnesium | 0.1% | 4.2% |
| Calcium | 0.1% | 0.2% |
| Potassium | 0.05% | 0.05% |
| Manganese | 0.002% | 0.001% |
| Iron | 0.001% | 1.1% |
| Zinc | 0.001% | 0.0005% |
| Iodine | 0.0001% | 0.0001% |
| In addition to minerals the Celcti salt has 5.6 % water in it. | ||
Note: The higher sodium content in Himalayan salt may be a concern for people who are trying to reduce their sodium intake. However, the higher mineral content in Celtic salt may benefit people looking for a salt with a variety of health benefits.
Himalayan Salt vs. Celtic Salt: A Detailed Comparison
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Here is a detailed comparison of Himalayan salt vs Celtic Salt.
Himalayan Salt: White, Pink, and Redish Wonder from the Mountains
First up, we have Himalayan salt, often called pink Himalayan salt because of its beautiful rosy hue.
It comes all the way from the peaks of the Himalayas in Pakistan. It owns its distinctive color, which comes from natural minerals, especially iron oxide.
One of the key selling points of Himalayan salt is its mineral content. It has calcium, magnesium, potassium, and even a dash of iron in this rock star salt.
But the amounts of these minerals can vary. The flavor it brings to your dishes is mild and subtle, never overpowering.
It’s like a supportive friend who adds a little something extra without stealing the show.
What are some health benefits of Himalayan salt?
Himalayan salt is often praised for its potential health benefits. Here are some commonly mentioned health claims associated with Himalayan salt:
- Himalayan salt contains trace minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron, which are essential for various bodily functions.
- Himalayan salt may help maintain electrolyte balance owing to its mineral-rich composition.
- Himalayan salt mixed with water can serve as a homemade rehydration solution after intense activity.
- Saline nasal sprays or neti pots containing Himalayan salt may help relieve nasal congestion. Thus, it may promote sinus health and facilitate nasal irrigation.
Is Himalayan Salt Really Loaded with Health Wonders?
There are several other popularized benefits of consuming Himalayan salt. However, they’re supported by few or no researchers (studies). While some others are common with other salts as well. For example:
- You might know that Himalayan salt helps to relieve muscle cramps. Well, the claim goes for any edible salt with sodium in it because it’s not the salt but primarily sodium and other minerals in your salt.
- Some say that Himalayan salt is alkaline. Not true! Everything with NaCl is salt, meaning they can’t be acidic or alkaline.
- Himalayan salt has shown no effect on regulating blood pressure, contrary to the propagated idea.
- Similarly, it’s advertised that halotherapy works for pulmonary functions. However, studies negate such claims.
Then why is Himalayan salt so sought after?
Aesthetics, my dear- it’s beautiful to look at; hence captivating when advertised!
What’re some cons of Himalayan salt?
The coin has another side too. Here are a few cons of using Himalayan salt.
- Limited iodine content
- Potential for increased sodium intake
- Costlier compared to regular table salt
- Limited scientific research on specific health claims
- Potential for environmental impact due to mining practices
Please note that
Also, remember that individual experiences with Himalayan salt may vary. So, please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding your dietary choices.
Celtic Salt: The Sea-Salty Delight from Coastal Waters
Celtic salt is a salty delight from the coastal regions of France, especially the Celtic Sea. Unlike Himalayan salt, Celtic salt doesn’t come from ancient mines but is harvested from good old seawater.
The color?
It’s more grayish.
Celtic Salt has its fan base for a reason. It’s got that classic salty taste that most of you love!
The secret lies in its rich blend of minerals. Sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium, and trace elements, serve you with a more pronounced salty flavor.
What are the proven health benefits of Celtic salt?
Celtic salt is known to share some general benefits with other high-quality unrefined salts. Here are some of these:
- Celtic salt contains an array of minerals and trace elements such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, and sodium, which are important for various bodily functions.
- The mineral composition of Celtic salt helps maintain electrolyte balance in the body. And it supports hydration, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
- Celtic salt’s trace minerals may play a role in promoting bone health, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being.
I could list a dozen of Celtic Salt health benefits. Honestly, some are no different than other salts that are NaCl. While some others are backed with no research. So, you should opt for any salt for its taste, and don’t fall prey to sale tactics.
What are some cons of Celtic salt?
Here are some potential cons associated with Celtic salt:
- Limited scientific research on specific health claims
- Potential for increased sodium intake
- Costlier compared to regular table salt or Himalayan salt.
- Limited availability in some regions
- Environmental impact due to harvesting practices
Note:
It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding your specific needs and preferences.
Himalayan vs. Celtic: Which Salt Should You Choose for Your Dishes?
Now comes the million-dollar question: “Which salt should you use?”
Well, it all boils down to personal preference and the dish you’re preparing.
If you want a subtle touch of minerals and a mild flavor. It’s great for seasoning dishes, especially if you want to let the other flavors shine.
And, for achieving a bolder salty taste, Celtic salt is your culinary companion. Its rich mineral profile and stronger flavor make it an excellent choice for adding that extra punch to your creations.
Conclusion
Himalayan and Celtic salt are considered higher-quality salts for their production uniqueness (believe me), so you can’t go wrong with either. It’s all about experimenting and finding what tickles your taste buds.
Just forget about health benefits; those are commonly shared by all NaCl salts (no more than trade secrets).
