Himalayan salt lamps: what are they?

Salt lamps are made from crystallised salt, which was formed by nature millions of years ago. Salt crystal is excavated from 800 metres deep inside the earth, at the foothills of the Himalayas – still one of the most serene and pristine regions on the earth.

Each salt lamp is hand crafted and unique, with colours ranging from hues of pink, apricot, red and orange, and while they are cleansing the air, they give a beautiful and relaxing glow.

Positive ions (known as ‘electric smog’) are prevalent in homes and workplaces and are an unfortunate by-product of advances in technology. Positive ions are created by TV’s, computers, air conditioners, heaters, vacuums and cigarette smoke, and they also carry airborne allergens.

Salt lamps release negative ions into the air, which help balance out the positive ions, thereby purifying the air – in the same way that ionising machines do.

When a salt lamp releases negative ions, they bond with the positive ions and the airborne allergens cluster and fall to the ground and lamps are reputed for providing assistance to sufferers of asthma, allergies, fatigue and insomnia.

Available either as tea light candle holders or electric lamps which use a 7W or 15W globe depending on the size, salt lamps do not reduce in size, weight, colour or shape, and will not lose their ionising effect. Lamps may absorb moisture from the air and leave a ring of salty water at the base – this is not a defect. To prevent moisture retention, it is recommended that lamps are left on for around 50% of the time or for one day per week. They should not be placed under evaporative air conditioning vents, in bathrooms or in other areas of high humidity.