Evidence supporting the use of: Salt (sea)
For the health condition: Dehydration
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5
Salt (sodium chloride), including sea salt, is scientifically validated for its role in treating and supporting hydration in cases of dehydration. The fundamental principle is that sodium is a key electrolyte lost through sweat, urine, vomiting, and diarrhea. Dehydration is not just a loss of water but also of essential electrolytes, primarily sodium and chloride. Clinical guidelines for treating dehydration, especially due to diarrhea or heat exposure, universally recommend rehydration solutions containing both water and electrolytes (sodium, chloride, potassium, and sometimes glucose).
Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS), endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), contain precise amounts of sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and glucose to optimize absorption of water and electrolytes in the gut. Sea salt, as a source of sodium chloride, can be used in the absence of refined table salt, although the variable mineral content should be considered for precise dosing.
Clinical evidence demonstrates that water alone is insufficient—and can be dangerous—for treating dehydration as it may further dilute blood sodium levels, leading to hyponatremia. The addition of salt ensures that water is retained in the body and restores electrolyte balance. Thus, the use of salt (including sea salt) in rehydration is grounded in robust scientific evidence, with numerous studies and decades of clinical practice supporting its efficacy and safety when used in appropriate concentrations.
Other health conditions supported by Salt (sea)
Athlete's FootBleeding (external)
Boils
Cuts
Dehydration
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dizziness
Ear Infection or Earache
Eye Infections
Gingivitis
Goiter
Hangover
Headache (general)
Hemorrhoids
Hypotension
Indigestion
Infection
Laryngitis
Oral Surgery
Pain (general remedies for)
Perspiration (deficient)
Poison Ivy or Oak
Post Partum Weakness