When it comes to matters of health, salt has gotten bad press. But some experts argue that salt could be just what we need for healing, health and longevity. While modern table salt may be unhealthy, it has almost nothing in common with traditional salt. Unlike the sodium chloride you find on most kitchen tables, unrefined rock salt contains more than 84 different minerals.

"These mineral salts are identical to the elements of which our bodies have been built and were originally found in the primal ocean from where life originated," argues Dr Barbara Hendel, researcher and co-author of Water & Salt, The Essence of Life. "We have salty tears and salty perspiration. The chemical and mineral composition of our blood and body fluids are similar to sea water. From the beginning of life, as unborn babies, we are encased in a sack of salty fluid."

"In water, salt dissolves into mineral ions," explains Dr Hendel. "These conduct electrical nerve impulses that drive muscle movement and thought processes. Just the simple act of drinking a glass of water requires millions of instructions that come from mineral ions. They're also needed to balance PH levels in the body."

How Salt Can Heal

PMS: Mineral-rich salts can help ease PMS in two ways -- the muscle-relaxing effects of magnesium combined with potassium, which helps the body get rid of excess water, can ease water retention and relieve muscular tension.

Joint Problems: Minerals have an alkalizing effect on the body. Natural health practitioners have observed that this has an anti-inflammatory effect, easing painful conditions such as arthritis.

Back Pain: Whether you eat or bathe in them, mineral-rich salts tend to be relaxing. This is largely due to magnesium, which is needed for muscles to relax. Low levels of magnesium are associated with muscle cramps.

Bone Strength: Unrefined rock salts are rich in minerals needed for bone strength. Apart from calcium, bones use phosphorus, magnesium and other minerals as building materials.