Relaxing in a salt-lined room while fine salt particles fill the air
Salt therapy, or halotherapy, takes place in a room lined with salt, where a halogenerator disperses fine particles of pharmaceutical-grade salt into the air. Clients sit or recline in loungers for 45 minutes, breathing normally; children's rooms often include a play area of salt. It is modelled on the speleotherapy salt caves of Eastern Europe.
Centres market it for breathing, sinuses and skin conditions. The research is limited: a few small studies suggest benefits for some respiratory symptoms, but the evidence is not strong enough for medical recommendation, and Asthma + Lung UK advises people with lung conditions to continue their prescribed treatment. What clients reliably report is a calm, quiet session in an unusual setting.
A 45-minute session costs around £20 to £45, with family tickets and packs available. People with severe asthma, active infections, fever or high blood pressure should check with their doctor first, and salt therapy must not replace inhalers or other medication.
Also known as: halotherapy, salt cave, salt room.
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A 45-minute session costs about £20 to £45. Children's sessions, family tickets and packs of five or ten bring the price down.
The evidence is limited and not strong enough to recommend it as a treatment. Some people find it soothing; never stop or reduce prescribed medication, and ask your GP before trying it if your asthma is severe.
Many centres run children's sessions with toys in the salt. Check with your GP first if your child has a respiratory condition.
