Frequently Asked Questions

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General Information

What is halotherapy?

“Halo” is from the Greek word for salt. Halotherapy is the term for any therapy or treatment that uses salt. Salt caves are an example of halotherapy.

What is speleotherapy?

Speleotherapy is a type of therapy that simulates a cave-like environment. Salt caves are an example of speleotherapy.

How does salt therapy work?

While there are different ways to provide salt therapy, many methods (and the one we use at Salt Cave, Inc.) involve creating a micro-climate where the air is saturated with salt. People relax and take in the salt through the respiratory system and through the pores of the skin. Once inside the body, salt goes to work delivering the holistic wellness benefits immediately.

What is the history of salt therapy?

Evidence suggests that salt therapy has been used in ancient cultures around the globe. However, the Wieliczka Salt Mines are said to be the birthplace of modern salt therapy. In 1843, a Polish physician, Dr. Felix Boczkowski, noticed that workers in the salt mines had fewer respiratory issues compared to others. He realized that as the workers were hammering, grinding, and chiseling away at the salt, they were creating micro-sized salt particles. The particles dispersed in the air around the workers, allowing them to inhale the salt. He attributed the wellness of the miners’ lungs to the introduction of salt in their airways. Other medical professionals observed similar experiences across Eastern Europe over the next century. It wasn’t until 1980 that the very first device was invented to mimic the grinding and dispersion of salt that took place in the mines. Many developments have happened since the creation of that first halotherapy machine and continue over time.

What are the specific benefits of Himalayan salt?

We believe Himalayan salt is the purest salt on earth, having been formed millions of years ago as the sun dried up the original primal sea—tucking the salt crystals into the Himalayan mountain range, where they have remained uncontaminated until modern times. Like most salt, Himalayan salt is high in minerals but has all 84 trace minerals required for life. It is antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and also gives off negative ions, acting as a natural detoxifier.

Is there any scientific evidence that salt therapy works?

YES! In addition to the almost unlimited anecdotal evidence and unofficial stories, there is a growing body of scientific research that supports many of the things first recognized in Poland. Noteworthy is the New England Journal of Medicine reporting in 2006 that exposure to a microclimate of Himalayan salt improved lung capacity in patients. Dozens of other peer-reviewed, double-blind studies exist, although many were conducted and published in countries outside of North America and outside of the English language.

Building a salt cave

How do you build a salt cave?

Building a salt cave in theory is simple—you find a location and decorate it to look like a cave, fill it with literally tons of Himalayan salt, and then start scheduling appointments. However, building a salt cave is not easy and it is highly recommended to work with professionals like Salt Cave, Inc. The fairly complex process involves selecting the location, obtaining permits, ensuring code and other safety requirements are met, and upgrading the facility to be able to handle the weight and moisture content of the salt. This could involve upgrades to the HVAC system, the electric and plumbing, and even the structure of the building. It involves creating a concept and designing the cave, gathering the salt and all related items, and building the cave in a sustainable way. Then, once the cave is built, basic science and business know-how are necessary to educate the community and effectively advertise and market, as well as to schedule appointments and operate the facility as a solid business entity. Owners must also complete simple but necessary maintenance and upkeep to protect their investments and ensure optimal customer experience and safety.

What is the difference between a relaxation cave and a therapeutic cave?

A relaxation cave is a room decorated to look like a cave (or some other theme) and is filled with tons of Himalayan salt that saturates the air and enters the body passively. A therapeutic cave is like a relaxation cave with the addition of a halogenerator—a machine designed to move salt particles actively through the air. While therapeutic caves are more effective in the administration of salt therapy than relaxation caves, there are benefits to each kind of room. A professional can help you decide which is best for you.

What is the process like to work with Salt Cave, Inc.?

After you contact Salt Cave, Inc., we will send you a PowerPoint presentation explaining what you can expect while building a salt cave. If you decide to move forward with us, we will ask you to sign a contract and nondisclosure/trade secret agreement. Upon receiving your nonrefundable deposit, we will contact your architect and begin work on your design. Upon your approval of the design to your specifications, construction begins! We will be as involved as you like and communicate with you throughout the process.

How long will it take to build a salt cave?

The length of time from initial contact to completion of the cave varies greatly from location to location and project to project. The actual build of your cave can range from days to months depending on the size and complexity of the project. Let’s communicate about your target time frame and see if we can make that happen.

What does it cost to build a salt cave?

Just like with build time, the cost of a salt cave can vary greatly from project to project depending on the square footage of your facility, the amount of salt needed, and any additional construction necessary. That said, we can usually get creative to stay within most budgets. While we will never cut corners and compromise the integrity of your cave and our brand, we can work with you to deliver a quality project and stick within your budget. Let’s talk and we can create a quote for you based on your needs.

Why work with Salt Cave, Inc.?

Salt Cave, Inc. pioneered the industry and built the first Himalayan salt caves in the US. Salt Cave, Inc. offers its own proprietary tried-and-true methods while constantly striving to make design improvements as technology advances. Its founder, Dr. Margaret Smiechowski, has more knowledge and practical experience with Himalayan salt than perhaps anyone else in North America. She has designed and built over 100 caves in the US and currently operates two successful caves of her own. She understands what it takes to create a beautiful, sustainable cave, and will work tirelessly to make sure you get the cave you want and can operate it successfully for the long term. Salt Cave, Inc. treats every project as a unique opportunity to share halotherapy with the world and never uses a “cookie-cutter” approach or sub-par building practices. You cannot go wrong by partnering with the founders of the industry!

Contact Us.

Dr. Margaret Smiechowski is North America’s foremost expert on Himalayan salt. Originally from Poland, Dr. Margaret has extensive education and experience in both traditional and complementary medicine.

Phone

(802) 770-3138

Email

saltcavevt@gmail.com