All over the world black salt is also known as Kala Namak, Himalayan rock salt, Suleman Namak, black Himalayan salt, pada-lun, Indian volcanic rock salt, etc.
The composition of Kala Namak is quite interesting. In addition to the presence of sodium chloride, which actually gives salt its salty taste, this salt also contains impurities of sodium sulfate and sulfide, iron sulfide, which is responsible for its dark purple color, and hydrogen sulfide, the compound to which salt owes its characteristic smell of rotten eggs.
Although Kala Namak is common in India, it is most commonly classified into three varieties around the world: Black Volcanic Salt, Black Ritual Salt, and Himalayan Rock Salt.
Black volcanic salt
Also known as Hawaiian rock salt, which smells like the earth after a drought or fire, and originates from Hawaii. It is known for giving dishes a smoky aroma, and it is often sprinkled on dishes at the end of cooking.
Black ritual salt
Black ritual salt is not edible because it is made by mixing ash, charcoal, sea salt and some artificial black dyes. Also known as witches salt. In Asia, it is usually sprinkled around the house or kept under the bed to ward off evil spirits and negative energy.
Black Himalayan salt
This is the most common type of salt for its deep spicy taste. It not only has certain medicinal properties, but also gives the dish a special thick and dark aroma.
Black salt is not a fad, a marketing ploy or any other food product that has recently made a huge comeback in Indian cuisine. It has always remained an integral part of Indian cuisine and in the aromatic dishes of Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal. The mention of Kala Namak dates back to 300 BC and the salt is widely known for its healing properties.
Benefits of black salt
Stimulates digestion
Kala Namak is an excellent remedy for those suffering from digestive problems. It stimulates the production of bile juices in the liver and, in turn, helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine. Bile juices also help digestion and reduce flatulence.
Reduces heartburn
Ayurvedic practitioners recommend substituting black salt for common salt to reduce heartburn. Kala Namak limits acid levels and reduces reflux and other symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Reduces bloating
If you suffer from bloating, all you need is a pinch of black salt. The unique chemical composition of black salt, including a high content of sodium chloride along with iron, manganese, iron oxide, sulfate, helps reduce gas formation, thereby reducing bloating and flatulence.
Relieves muscle cramps
If you often wake up with muscle cramps in the calf muscles, this indicates dehydration or an additional load on the leg muscles. Potassium, a mineral found in large quantities in black salt, promotes normal muscle function and prevents sudden painful seizures. The healing properties of black salt also help prevent osteoporosis.
Regulates blood pressure
Black salt is often recommended as an alternative to white salt. It serves as a natural blood thinner and can regulate blood pressure.
Improves sleep
Using Kala Namak can reduce the symptoms of insomnia, which is most often the result of melatonin imbalance. Eating food seasoned with black salt for dinner balances melatonin levels and helps you sleep.
However, the medicinal properties do not make black Himalayan salt or any other natural superfood a magic pill for all ailments. No way! Charms, as always, work only under the condition of constant regular use of useful products in moderate quantities.
Regarding the recommended dose of black or pink Himalayan salt, it is no more than 6 grams per day for a healthy person and 3 g for those suffering from high blood pressure.
Stay healthy!
