Unveiling the Origin and Natural Harvesting of Epsom Salts, Dead Sea Salt, and French Celtic Sea Salt
In this article, we’ll explore the origins and natural harvesting of these remarkable salts, each with its unique properties and therapeutic benefits:
NATURAL EPSOM SALTS: FROM ENGLISH SPRINGS TO RELAXATION
The origin of Epsom Salts, also known as magnesium sulfate, is in the town of Epsom in Surrey, England. Their discovery dates back to the early 17th century, and people have treasured their therapeutic benefits ever since. Epsom Salts differ from sea-derived salts in that they originate from natural underground mineral springs. The harvesting process involves pumping mineral-rich spring water from deep underground sources and separating the magnesium sulfate crystals to create the familiar granules. This natural extraction method ensures the purity of the salts, devoid of additives or contaminants.
Renowned for promoting muscle relaxation, alleviating stress, and soothing aching joints, Epsom Salts boast a high magnesium content readily absorbed through the skin during bathing, making them a preferred choice for muscle recovery and relaxation.
PREMIUM DEAD SEA SALT: THE MINERALS OF THE LOWEST POINT ON EARTH
The renowned Dead Sea Salt originates from the Dead Sea, a saltwater lake located at the lowest point on Earth, between Israel and Jordan. This salt is unique because of its incredible mineral richness, derived from the high salt concentration of the sea and the minerals it gathers from surrounding geothermal springs.
Harvesting Dead Sea Salt involves solar evaporation. Water from the Dead Sea is directed into shallow pools, where the intense sun evaporates the water leaving behind the salts and minerals. Skilled workers then carefully collect these salts, ensuring the preservation of their purity and mineral richness.
Wellness practitioners celebrate Dead Sea Salt for its mineral content, which includes magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Many believe it offers relief from skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema while enhancing overall skin health. Additionally, many tradition use baths infused with Dead Sea Salt to help ease muscles and promote relaxation.
FRENCH CELTIC SEA SALT: FROM THE COAST OF BRITTANY
French Celtic Sea Salt, also known as “sel gris” or grey salt, originates from the coastal regions of Brittany, France. Its distinct grey colour comes from the minerals it contains and the clay lining the salt pans where it’s collected.
Skilled paludiers, or salt workers, hand-harvest this salt using traditional wooden rakes to gather salt crystals from the salt pans. The salt is then left to air dry, preserving its natural mineral content.
Users of French Celtic Sea Salt laud its mineral complexity, which includes magnesium, calcium, and trace minerals. French Celtic Sea Salt provides relaxing and soothing benefits, making it sought after for bathing. Additionally, many cooks value its balanced flavour in culinary applications.
BATHING WITH MINERAL SALTS
These three natural salts—Epsom Salts, Dead Sea Salt, and French Celtic Sea Salt—offer unique properties and therapeutic benefits. Their natural origins and careful harvesting methods ensure that they retain their purity and effectiveness in various wellness applications. All of these salts exemplify the profound connection between nature and human well-being.
Read more on bathing and our range of premium mineral bath soaks in our bath blog series.