What Is a Salt Lamp?

Generalities

• Most salt lamps come in sizes between 5 inches and 20 inches tall. The salt in the lamps comes from several sources, including salt caves of Poland, the foothills of the Himalayas and from Morocco or Persia -- known today as Iran. Purple, white and golden orange are common colors, but due to different attributes, designs and lighting effects, you may find other colors. Users say the lamps work best if continually left plugged in and turned on to keep the salt warm.

How They Work

• The light bulb in the lamp gently heats the salt. The ionic bonding of salt molecule is therefore disrupted, which results in the release of sodium and chlorine ions. SaltLampClinic.com says, "When the two atoms are separated the chlorine atom takes an extra ion from the sodium atom, giving the chlorine atom a negative charge. This negatively charged chlorine atom is what removes any positively charged particle from the air such as smoke, pollen, dust mites, animal dander, odors, mold, bacteria, electro-smog and many other pollutants."

Claims

• If you've ever stood beside the ocean or been outdoors during a major thunderstorm, you have experienced the strong "clearing" by negative ions. Negative ions have indeed been shown to improve mood. Salt lamps are supposed to release these negative ions into the air around them. This emission helps eliminate negative "energy" and assists in physically clearing the air. Some people say the lamps help them feel better or focus better. To test the scientific claims, you would need a special detector and allow enough time for the lamp to fully heat. Ideally, testing over a few days might be useful.

Sources

• You can find salt lamps from online sellers as well as in metaphysical shops. Salt crystal bowls and salt crystal candleholders are also available. Each item is unique. Wellness centers, alternative supply stores and natural foods-type markets also carry salt lamps.