Salt therapy, also called halotherapy, is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about wellness trends in India. Wellness centres in cities like Gurugram, Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru are offering this experience in specially designed “salt caves.” These rooms are filled with salt — on the walls, the floor, and even in the air. Many believe it helps with breathing, mental health, and overall well-being. But how much of it is backed by science?
As more and more people in India embrace a lifestyle of wellness through spa retreats, yoga, meditation, and natural healing, salt therapy has found its place as the latest “must-try” treatment. It’s calming, visually appealing, and social media–friendly. But experts are warning people not to treat it as a cure-all.
Salt therapy originally became popular in Europe. It was noticed that salt mine workers had fewer breathing issues compared to others, which led to the idea that salt might have health benefits. That’s how salt caves — and later, halotherapy — came to be.
During a salt therapy session, you sit in a room filled with fine salt particles in the air. The belief is that when you breathe in this air, it helps clear your airways, reduces inflammation, and may even help with conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and sinus congestion.
Some scientific studies suggest that salt has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These may help loosen mucus and clear nasal passages. However, most doctors say the therapy is only mildly helpful — and not a replacement for real medical treatment.
Dr. A. Jayachandra, a senior pulmonologist from CARE Hospitals in Hyderabad, says, “Salt therapy may be helpful for people with mild breathing problems or cough, but it’s not a main form of treatment. It’s best seen as an extra therapy that might bring some comfort.”
He adds, “It’s not something we recommend often, and it can be expensive. There are simpler medical alternatives, like saline nebulisation, that do a better job in a more controlled way.”
In short, while the experience of sitting in a peaceful, salt-filled room might feel good, it won’t fix serious lung or breathing issues. So, it’s important not to skip prescribed medical treatments in favour of trendy therapies.
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While the physical benefits of halotherapy are still debated, some mental health professionals believe it might have a calming effect on the mind.
Dr. Sumalatha Vasudeva, a psychologist at Gleneagles BGS Hospital in Bengaluru, says, “Salt therapy may help lift your mood and reduce stress. It’s not a substitute for actual treatment, but it might help some people feel more relaxed and improve their emotional well-being.”
She notes that people dealing with anxiety or depression sometimes visit salt rooms to relax, and many say they feel better afterwards. “It may help boost serotonin levels — the ‘feel-good’ chemical in the brain — and that’s why some people find it helpful,” she explains.
However, just like with the physical health claims, experts are careful not to overpromise. It’s important to remember that mental health issues need professional attention. While salt therapy may be used as a form of relaxation, it should not replace therapy, counselling, or medication.
There’s no doubt that salt therapy creates a beautiful, calming space that can help people relax and unwind. It fits well with the modern idea of wellness as a lifestyle — one that combines physical health with mental peace. And for some, simply taking the time to slow down and focus on breathing in a peaceful space can be a meaningful break from the rush of daily life.
But when it comes to real health benefits, the scientific backing is still weak. Salt therapy isn’t dangerous, but it’s also not a miracle cure. It might help a little with mild breathing problems or stress, but it cannot replace proper treatment.
Experts say it’s fine to try salt therapy if it makes you feel good — just do it knowing the facts. Think of it more like a spa treatment than a medical solution. It’s a wellness experience, not a cure.
So yes, salt therapy is trending, and yes, it may offer temporary relaxation. But if you’re dealing with real health issues — whether physical or emotional — it’s always best to talk to your doctor or therapist. Until we have more research, salt therapy should be taken with, well... a pinch of salt.
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