You may have heard of many uses and benefits of table salt, but the information you’re about to read is likely unfamiliar to most. It concerns a method of healing with salt compresses – a technique that was widely used during World War II to treat various ailments, including wounds, infections, and inflammation. Remarkably, some claim that this method can even help destroy cancer cells.
While the idea may sound too simple to be effective, especially in today’s world of advanced medical treatments and pharmaceuticals, salt compresses offer surprisingly powerful results when used correctly. Below, we’ll explore what makes this method so unique and how to apply it safely at home.
What You Should Know About Using Salt Compresses
Salt compresses work locally – they target and treat the specific area where they are applied. They don’t circulate throughout the body like medication but instead draw out toxins, reduce inflammation, and help eliminate viruses and bacteria that accumulate in the affected area.
If used consistently, the healing effects become noticeable within 7 to 10 days. Despite its effectiveness, many doctors today are hesitant to recommend this natural remedy, often opting for pharmaceutical solutions instead. However, in traditional medicine and among alternative health practitioners, salt therapy continues to gain recognition.
How to Use Salt Compresses for Different Conditions
- For Headaches and Nasal Congestion:
If you’re experiencing a cold, stuffy nose, or even a headache, you can place a warm salt compress on your forehead before going to bed. Sleeping with the compress overnight often results in significant relief by the next morning. - For Cholecystitis (Inflammation of the Gallbladder):
In cases of gallbladder inflammation, apply a salt compress directly over the area where the gallbladder is located (typically on the right side of the abdomen). The compress should be made of four layers of fabric soaked in salt solution and should remain on the body overnight for the best results. - For Breast Cancer (as described in folk medicine):
Folk medicine traditions suggest that applying a salt-soaked cloth—such as a towel folded into four layers—over the breasts overnight can help in reducing or even eliminating cancer cells. It’s important to note that this claim is based on anecdotal evidence, and anyone with a serious medical condition should always consult their healthcare provider.
Important Guidelines and Warnings
- You should never use salt solutions as a compress and a hot compress at the same time. Heat is not recommended in this context, as it can interfere with the salt’s ability to draw out toxins.
- The concentration of the salt solution must not exceed 10%. A stronger solution can irritate the skin and cause other unwanted effects. An 8% concentration is generally ideal for safe and effective treatment.
- It’s recommended to use natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen, for the compress. A cotton towel works well.
- The compress should be damp, not dripping wet or dry. After soaking the fabric in the salt solution, wring it out slightly so it retains moisture without being too wet.
- Use medical tape or gauze bandages to secure the compress in place. It should be tight enough to stay on the skin but not so tight that it cuts off circulation.
How to Prepare a 10% Salt Solution
To create a 10% saline solution at home:
- Dissolve 90 grams of table salt (about 3 tablespoons) into 1 liter of sterile or boiled, cooled water.
- Stir well until the salt is completely dissolved. This solution can now be used to soak the fabric for your compress.
Conditions That Salt Compresses May Help With
Salt compress therapy is said to be beneficial in treating:
- Internal bleeding
- Serious internal and external injuries
- Muscle strain or tension
- Inflammation
While more scientific research is needed to fully validate some of these claims, many people who have used salt compresses report significant relief and healing.
