Salt Lamps & Ionization

For hundreds of years people have known about the therapeutic properties of salt crystal and have used it for healing and air purification, according to the Poland Chamber of Commerce. Salt crystal is a natural ionizer, producing negative ions that bind to particles in the air and cause them to fall to the ground, creating purer air quality. Various experiments, such as studies performed by Dr. Albert P. Krueger and Dr. Richard F. Smith at the University of California on allergens and cancer research, show that the process of ionization can benefit health and well-being.

Identification

• Salt lamps are large pieces of salt crystal carved into a lamp shape. A low wattage lightbulb or candle is placed inside to create soft, ambient lighting. Lamps come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are hand chipped or polished smooth.

Ionization

• Ionization is the process of changing a molecule or atom into an ion, either by adding or subtracting charged particles. According to the Poland Chamber Import Export Products and Services, "air is electrically charged, which means it contains...positively charged molecules (positive ions) and negatively charged molecules (negative ions)." A balance between the two is required for optimum wellness.

Function

• Our current environment is filled with modern conveniences, such as computers, electrical appliances and radar systems, which create an over-abundance of positive ions. The warmth of the lamp inside the salt crystal increases the release of negative ions, which neutralize the positive ions and create balance in the atmosphere.

How to Use a Salt Lamp

• The effectiveness of ionization from a salt lamp is limited to a few feet surrounding the lamp, regardless of size. For maximum benefit, keep a salt lamp in close proximity to you. You can also place multiple lamps in a room, rather than one large lamp, to ensure the negative ions reach you.

Benefits

• According to the article "Research Proves That A Heated Salt Crystal Lamp Is A Natural Ionizer," the air surrounding a salt lamp, "is measurably cleaned by the transformation cycle of hydrogen and oxygen, as well as sodium and chloride ions. This characteristic is especially helpful for relieving the symptoms associated with asthma and allergies in general." Various studies have been done to support the health claims of ionization. Scientific experiments performed by medical researchers Dr. Kornblueh of the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate Hospital and Dr. Hansell of RCA Laboratories examined the health benefits of these ions. Results in these studies showed that the use of negative ions had a significant improvement in illnesses such as allergies (especially hay fever and bronchial asthma), mood improvement and even pain tranquilization.

Tips on Purchasing a Salt Lamp

• The larger the surface area and size of the lamp, the more negative ions can be discharged. Look for a lamp made up of salt chips rather than one piece of salt crystal, to provide the most surface area. Stay clear of polished lamps if you are interested in ionization. Polished lamps give off the least amount of ions and are best used for ambience and decoration. Be sure that you are purchasing your lamp from a trusted source. Lamps should be tested, and the base of the lamp should be of good quality and fit securely to the salt crystal. There are a variety of colors to choose from, ranging from light pinks and oranges to darker reds and even deep purple. Darker shades have more mineral content and can signify a better quality product, so stick with darker pinks and soft oranges.