There is a variety of salt available in the market, each claiming to be beneficial for different reasons. In this article, we will discuss two mineral-rich salts, Himalayan salt vs bamboo salt. Let’s see what these are and how they differ from each other.
What Is Bamboo Salt?
Bamboo salt has long been a part of Korean cuisine and traditional Korean remedies due to its wellness qualities. However, what sets this salt apart from other salt varieties produced across the world is its mineral-dense nature. Unlike other naturally occurring salts, bamboo salt is made by using a traditional roasting method. This salt is a combination of salt and other natural ingredients that make it different from other salts.
What Is Himalayan Salt?
Pink Himalayan salt is harvested from ancient mines in Punjab, Pakistan. These mines are located in the foothills of great Himalayan mountain ranges which is why this salt is known as Himalayan salt. It is only found in the Pakistan region from where bulk Himalayan salt is supplied worldwide to be used for different purposes. This salt is known for its attractive pink color, unique crystals, and unrefined nature.
Summary
Himalayan salt is a naturally occurring mineral whereas bamboo salt is made by heating salt in a bamboo case lined with clay.
Difference Between Bamboo Salt And Himalayan Salt
There are some major differences between these two salts that make them useful for different purposes. Let’s take a look at their differences based on their origin, nutritional profile, benefits, and uses.
Source/Origin
Bamboo salt is centuries-old salt. It is made by placing sea salt or rock salt inside a bamboo case. Then, mineral-rich yellow clay is used to seal the casings which are then placed in metal containers. After that, the metal containers are heated in a furnace fueled by pinewood. The procedure requires temperatures between 1000°C and 1300°C. The entire procedure is done 3, 6, or 9 times for around 10 hours to increase the salt’s medicinal value.
The minerals in bamboo get infused into the salt during the roasting process. The color of the salt changes after numerous roasts for about 9 hours and it also transforms into a solid rock-shaped salt that is then broken, crushed, and further packaged.
This whole process is labor-intensive and involves doing the majority of the work by hand, from packing sea salt into bamboo boxes to breaking and crushing the rock-solid salt, which drives up the price of this salt.
On the other hand, Himalayan salt is a naturally occurring salt made by the evaporation of seawater centuries ago. It has accumulated over time in the form of huge mountains covered by rocks and lava that protected it from harsh environmental factors. This salt is hand-mined in the form of large rocks that are further crushed into different grain sizes.
Summary
Himalayan pink salt originated from centuries-old mines. It is mined using sustainable methods and then used to make different products. Bamboo salt is handmade using an old roasting method.
Appearance
Himalayan salt is identified by its pink to orange-red color which is due to the presence of trace minerals especially iron. It has a crystalline appearance with rough or fine edges. Himalayan pink salt has various textures from fine to coarse. It is also available in the form of fine powder or rough surfaced chunks.
Bamboo salt has the same texture as the sea salt or rock salt used for making it. Its color may vary based on the time used to make this. It has a white color with light green-yellow hues of bamboo.
Taste
Bamboo salt has a rich flavor with hints of earthy and plant-like aroma in addition to being salty. It frequently contains a small amount of Sulphur which makes its flavor more distinct. Himalayan salt has a very rich and balanced salty flavor because of its additives-free pure nature.
Summary
Himalayan salt has pink-colored grains and a rich salty flavor. Bamboo salt has a salty flavor infused with bamboo and clay flavor. It has light green colored crystals.
Nutritional/Medicinal Profile
In comparison to conventional sea salt, bamboo salt has a rich mineral composition and is higher in iron, potassium, and calcium, which helps to boost immunity and metabolic activity. The health advantages of this salt are thought to be one of the factors behind its high price, in addition to the labor-intensive production process.
Bamboo salt also manifests the essence of five fundamental elements from the raw materials and the roasting process. The fire from the roasting, earth from the yellow clay, metal from the tray used in the process, water from the sea salt, and wood from the Pinewood and Bamboo increase the nutritional value of bamboo salt.
Himalayan salt is considered more beneficial for dietary and non-dietary uses than many other salts because of its mineral-rich and pure composition. This salt has more than 80 trace elements and minerals that make it nutritious. Though in traces, these minerals are important to perform some vital body functions. Most importantly, Himalayan salt provides the recommended amount of sodium which is an essential element for the human body.
Summary
Bamboo salt has the benefits of sea or rock salt and bamboo is used to make it. It has been used in traditional Korean medicine for its medicinal properties. Whereas, Himalayan salt being a pollutant-free and mineral-rich salt provides many nutritional and health benefits.
Bamboo Salt Uses
Its antiseptic properties make it a useful ingredient in toothpaste, toothpowder, and floss. It is used in many skincare products such as face masks, face washes, and cleansers.
Himalayan Salt Uses
This mineral-rich pink salt is used to season meals. It is also used to uplift the decor of homes and offices in the form of salt lamps and candle holders. Himalayan salt neti pots and inhalers are used to treat respiratory and sinus problems. Himalayan salt is also used in bath salts, toners, scrubs, and toothpaste.
Bamboo Salt Benefits
- Since ancient times, bamboo salt has been utilized in traditional medicine in Korea to treat and prevent a wide range of illnesses.
- Studies have demonstrated the anti-cancer and antioxidant properties of bamboo salt.
- Minerals in it help to improve immunity and metabolism.
- It helps to reduce inflammation and promotes faster wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial nature.
- It helps to maintain oral health by preventing cavities and removing plaque.
Himalayan Salt Benefits
- Pink Himalayan salt provides your body with essential minerals especially sodium which is necessary for many body functions.
- Minerals like potassium, iron, and zinc aid the body’s natural detoxification process.
- It also helps to balance the fluids.
- Controls blood sugar level.
- Balances the pH level of the body.
Bottom Line
Himalayan rock salt and bamboo salt are different from each other in many ways. It is up to you which salt you choose for which purpose.