Celtic Salt: Benefits, Uses, and How to Choose the Best One

Salt is one of the most essential and versatile ingredients in any kitchen. However, not all salts are created equal. Some are highly processed and stripped of their natural minerals, while others are rich in trace elements and flavor. One of the most natural and unrefined salts you can find is Celtic salt, also known as gray salt or sel gris.

Celtic salt is harvested from the tidal pools off the coast of France, and it gets its gray color from the clay and minerals in the surrounding area. Celtic salt has a complex and briny taste that enhances any dish, and it also has many benefits for your health and well-being.

In this article, you will learn what Celtic salt is, how it differs from other salts, what are its benefits, how to use it in your cooking and beauty routines, how to choose the best one for your needs, and where to buy it online or offline.

What Is Celtic Sea Salt?

Celtic sea salt is a type of natural and unrefined sea salt that is harvested from the coastal regions of France, Brittany, and other parts of Europe. Celtic sea salt is also known as gray salt, sel gris, or sel marin, because of its grayish color and moist texture.

Celtic sea salt is harvested from the tidal pools off the coast of France using wooden rakes and tools. The salt farmers, or paludiers, carefully monitor the weather conditions and the water levels to determine the best time to collect the salt. The salt is then sun-dried and stored in clay-lined ponds or wooden sheds. The salt is not washed, bleached, or refined, and it contains no additives or anti-caking agents.

There are six main types of Celtic sea salt:

• Light Grey Celtic Sea Salt is the most common type. It is harvested from the salt marshes of Brittany, France, and has a light grey color with a slightly purplish hue. It is known for its rich flavor and mineral content.
• Fine Ground Celtic Sea Salt is made from Light Grey Celtic Sea Salt that has been ground into a fine powder. It is a versatile salt that can be used for cooking, baking, and finishing dishes.
• Flower of the Ocean Celtic Sea Salt is the highest quality type of Celtic sea salt. It is made from the top layer of salt crystals that form on the surface of the salt marshes. It has a delicate flavor and a slightly sweet aftertaste.
• Gourmet Kosher Celtic Sea Salt is a kosher-certified type of Celtic sea salt. It is made from the same salt marshes as Light Grey Celtic Sea Salt, but it is processed using a different method that removes some of the minerals. This makes it a milder-tasting salt that is suitable for kosher cooking.
• Pink Sea Salt: This is a type of Celtic sea salt that has a pink color from the natural red clay lining within the salt ponds. It has a flavorful garnish for sweet and savory dishes. It is great for everyday cooking salt and has an alkalizing pH of 8.5-9.
• Makai Pure Celtic Sea Salt is a type of Celtic sea salt that is harvested in Hawaii. It has a light pink color and a slightly smoky flavor. It is said to be rich in minerals and antioxidants.

All of these types of Celtic sea salt are unrefined, meaning they have not been processed with chemicals or additives. This makes them a healthier alternative to refined table salt. They are also a good source of minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium.

The best type of Celtic sea salt for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs. If you are looking for a salt with a strong flavor and high mineral content, then Light Grey Celtic Sea Salt or Flower of the Ocean Celtic Sea Salt would be a good choice. If you are looking for a milder-tasting salt that is kosher-certified, then Gourmet Kosher Celtic Sea Salt would be a good option. And if you are looking for a salt with a unique flavor, then Makai Pure Celtic Sea Salt would be a good choice.

Celtic sea salt is different from other salts because it is hand-harvested using traditional methods that preserve its natural minerals and trace elements. Celtic sea salt contains about 80 minerals and trace elements, such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, and iodine, that are essential for human health.

Celtic sea salt also has a lower sodium content and a higher moisture content than regular table salt, which makes it more flavorful and less drying. Celtic sea salt can be used for cooking, seasoning, preserving, and enhancing the taste of various foods.

It can also be used for health and beauty purposes, such as making salt scrubs, bath salts, toothpaste, mouthwash, and more. Celtic sea salt is considered one of the healthiest and most natural salts available in the market.

The other names of Celtic Sea Salt are:

• Sel gris (French for “gray salt”)
• Sel de Guérande (French for “salt of Guérande”)
• Sel de Bretagne (French for “salt of Brittany”)
• Fleur de sel (French for “flower of salt”)
• Gray sea salt
• Unrefined sea salt
• Artisanal sea salt
• Natural sea salt
• Gourmet sea salt

Celtic Sea Salt is a type of sea salt that is harvested in the Guérande region of France. It is known for its gray color, which is due to the clay and minerals in the water. Celtic Sea Salt is also high in trace minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium.

The name “Celtic Sea Salt” is thought to have originated from the Celts, who were a group of people who inhabited the region in ancient times. The Celts were known for their use of salt, and they may have been the first to harvest salt from the Guérande region.

Today, Celtic Sea Salt is a popular choice for chefs and home cooks. It is used in a variety of dishes, from seafood to salads to desserts. Celtic Sea Salt is also known for its health benefits, and it is often used as a natural remedy for things like muscle cramps and high blood pressure.

Celtic Sea Salt Nutrition Info

Celtic sea salt is a very low-calorie food that is high in sodium. It also contains small amounts of potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. Here is the nutrition information for Celtic Sea Salt:

This information is based on a serving size of 1 tsp (6g) of Celtic Sea Salt. The Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet, so your values may change depending on your calorie needs

A quarter-teaspoon of Celtic Sea Salt contains the following nutritional composition when compared to table salt, as per the USDA:

Here are some other facts about Celtic sea salt nutrition:

1. Celtic sea salt contains about 80 minerals and trace elements, such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, and iodine, that are essential for human health.
2. Celtic sea salt has a lower sodium content and a higher moisture content than regular table salt, which makes it more flavorful and less drying.
3. Celtic sea salt does not contain any additives, such as anti-caking agents, free-flowing agents, or conditioners.
4. Celtic sea salt has a pH of 8.53, which is slightly alkaline and can help balance the acidity in the body.
5. Celtic sea salt has 0 calories, 0 fat, 0 protein, and 0 carbohydrates per serving (1.5 g). It also provides 343 mg of sodium, 2 mg of potassium, 5 mg of magnesium, and 564 mg of chloride per serving.

Benefits of Celtic Salt

Sodium is an essential mineral crucial for various bodily functions, such as muscle contractions, nerve signaling, and fluid balance, as stated by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. These benefits are inherent to all types of salt, whether it’s common table salt or sea salt.

Celtic salt, however, has garnered attention for its perceived unique qualities, yet much of its benefits remain anecdotal. The company responsible for Celtic Sea Salt claims that it contains essential trace minerals, elements, and natural electrolytes. However, comprehensive information regarding its mineral composition remains elusive. Additionally, as the salt is sourced from various regions, the vitamin and mineral content may vary.

Using this condiment rich in minerals can benefit your health in various ways. Celtic sea salt preserves its natural balance of minerals and electrolytes, unlike refined salts. It can help prevent muscle cramps, promote hydration, and support a healthy nervous system. However, you should still follow the salt intake guidelines to avoid consuming too much.

Celtic salt allergies are uncommon, but they can happen. If you have kidney problems or are allergic to iodine, you should talk to a healthcare professional before adding it to your diet.

Some of the potential benefits of Celtic sea salt:

• Improves hydration: Celtic sea salt contains magnesium, which is a mineral that helps the body absorb water. This can help to improve hydration levels, especially in people who sweat a lot or who live in hot climates.
• Reduces muscle cramps: Celtic sea salt can help to reduce muscle cramps by replenishing the body’s electrolytes. Electrolytes are minerals that help to regulate the body’s fluids and nerve function.
• Supports a healthy nervous system: Celtic sea salt contains iodine, which is a mineral that is essential for a healthy nervous system. Iodine helps to produce thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth, and development.
• Boosts the immune system: Celtic sea salt contains trace amounts of zinc, which is a mineral that helps to boost the immune system. Zinc helps to fight off infection and repair damaged cells.
• Improves skin health: Celtic sea salt can be used as a natural exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and improve circulation. It can also be used to treat acne and other skin conditions.

It’s worth noting that scientific research has not established substantial health disparities between sea salt and table salt, except that sea salt is often less processed.

To discover the benefits of Celtic sea salt explained by Dr. Bob De Maria, be sure to watch this video!

Healing Damaged Skin

Celtic Sea Salt can help your skin heal and look healthier when you mix it with warm water. It has natural plankton and magnesium that calm and soothe your skin.

Some individuals tout Celtic sea salt’s potential to benefit the skin, often using it as an exfoliating scrub for conditions like dry skin, rosacea, or acne. However, this claim lacks substantial scientific backing.

A study published in January 2023 in the journal Cosmetics suggested that water from the Dead Sea, known for its high sodium content, might positively impact skin health. Nonetheless, further research is necessary to substantiate this claim.

Potential Hydration Enhancement

Some people think that Celtic sea salt can help you stay hydrated better than regular salt.

They say that the magnesium in Celtic sea salt helps your body absorb more water. But not everyone agrees with this idea. There is not enough scientific proof to show that Celtic sea salt can improve hydration.

Drinking enough water is important for your health, but it can be hard to do sometimes. You might be looking for some tricks to make it easier, like adding some Celtic sea salt to your water.

But you should know that too much salt can be bad for you, especially if you have high blood pressure or other health problems. The Australian Heart Foundation says that healthy adults should not have more than one teaspoon of salt per day.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that Celtic sea salt is better for people with high blood pressure than other types of salt. In fact, Celtic sea salt has the same amount of sodium as table salt, which is a major contributor to high blood pressure.

The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 mg a day and an ideal limit of less than 1,500 mg per day for most adults, especially for those with high blood pressure. A teaspoon of Celtic sea salt contains about 1,920 mg of sodium, so it is important to use it in moderation if you have high blood pressure.

A better way to drink more water is to make it more fun and tasty. You can add some natural flavors to your water, like lemon, berries, mint, or cucumber. You can also try different kinds of water, like sparkling, mineral, or coconut water. The main thing is to find what works for you and enjoy drinking water.

Promoting Cell Growth

Some assertions imply that Celtic salt can enhance cellular growth and facilitate “osmosis of water across the cell membranes.” Regrettably, these assertions lack scientific foundation, with no credible studies supporting them.

It is true that maintaining adequate sodium levels in the body is vital for various cellular functions, including growth, as outlined in a January 2014 review published in Advances in Nutrition. However, this attribute applies to salt in general and is not exclusive to Celtic salt.

Good natural remedy for colds and flu

Celtic sea salt may have some benefits for colds and flu, but there is not enough scientific evidence to support this claim. Some of the possible benefits are:

• Celtic sea salt contains magnesium, which may have a soothing effect on the skin and mucous membranes. This may help relieve irritation and inflammation caused by colds and flu.
• Celtic sea salt also contains iodine, which may help boost the immune system and fight off infections. Iodine is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism and immunity.
• Celtic sea salt may help hydrate the body and balance the electrolytes, which are important for maintaining fluid levels and preventing dehydration. Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of colds and flu, such as fever, headache, fatigue, and dry mouth.

However, these benefits are not proven by scientific studies, and they may vary depending on the individual and the type and amount of Celtic sea salt used.

Celtic sea salt should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or advice, and it should be consumed in moderation. Too much salt can cause high blood pressure, kidney problems, and other health issues.

Therefore, Celtic sea salt may be a good natural remedy for colds and flu, but it is not a miracle cure. It may help with some symptoms, but it may not prevent or treat the underlying causes of the illness.

The best way to prevent colds and flu is to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, avoiding contact with sick people, and getting vaccinated.

And the best way to treat colds and flu is to rest, drink plenty of fluids, take over-the-counter medications as needed, and consult a doctor if the symptoms are severe or persistent.

Supporting Thyroid Health

Iodine is a crucial mineral essential for thyroid hormone production, and its deficiency can lead to thyroid issues like an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), according to the Mayo Clinic.

Some believe that Celtic Sea Salt, with its iodine content, may benefit thyroid health. However, Celtic salt often contains less iodine compared to iodized table salt, which serves as a reliable source of iodine.

For those seeking iodine intake, it is advisable to opt for moderate amounts of iodized table salt.

Relieving Joint Pain and Leg Cramps

There is insufficient evidence to support claims that placing salt under the tongue alleviates leg cramps or that soaking in a Celtic Sea Salt bath relieves joint pain and cramps.

More positive assertions have been made regarding Epsom salts due to their high magnesium content, which is linked to muscle relaxation and pain relief. Nevertheless, even these claims lack substantial scientific validation, as indicated by the Cleveland Clinic.

Reducing Mucus

Some individuals suggest that Celtic salt can reduce nasal and sinus swelling, thereby thinning and reducing mucus production. However, no scientific research has explored this connection.

For those seeking to alleviate sinus-related issues due to illness or allergies, it is advisable to employ a saline nasal spray or nasal rinse, as recommended by medical experts.

How Much Celtic Sea Salt Should You Eat Per Day?

There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that drinking water with one-quarter to 1 teaspoon of Celtic Sea Salt per day can improve your health. This amount of sea salt can provide about 20 percent of your daily sodium limit, which is 2,300 milligrams for a 2,000-calorie diet, according to UTSouthwestern Medical Center.

Too much sodium can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns. The average American consumes more than 3,300 milligrams of sodium per day, which is much higher than the recommended amount. Therefore, you should not add extra sodium to your diet.

Most of the sodium you eat comes from processed or prepackaged foods, not from the salt you sprinkle on your dishes.

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health advises that high sodium intake can cause health problems such as high blood pressure, strokes, heart disease, and calcium loss.

People with kidney disease, high blood pressure, and heart failure may need to be more careful about their salt intake, whether it is sea salt or table salt.

Both sea salt and table salt should be used sparingly, like any other type of salt, to avoid these conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is difference between Celtic salt vs Sea salt?

Celtic salt and sea salt are both types of salts used in cooking and health applications, but they have some differences:

Celtic Salt

• Origin: Harvested from the coastal regions of France, particularly the Brittany region.
• Processing: Hand-raked and sun-dried using traditional methods, which preserve its natural minerals.
• Color and Texture: Usually grayish in color due to the clay and sand from the salt flats where it is harvested. It has a moist texture.
• Mineral Content: High in minerals and trace elements like magnesium, calcium, and potassium.
• Taste: Milder and more nuanced compared to table salt, with a slightly briny flavor.
• Uses: Often used as a finishing salt to enhance the flavor of dishes. Also popular in health and wellness for its mineral content.

• Origin: Produced from evaporated seawater from various parts of the world.
• Processing: Can be either harvested using traditional methods or processed more industrially, affecting its mineral content.
• Color and Texture: Typically white, but can vary depending on the location and method of harvest. Available in various textures, from fine to coarse.
• Mineral Content: Contains minerals and trace elements, though the amount can vary significantly depending on the source and processing.
• Taste: Clean and straightforward salt flavor, though it can vary slightly depending on the source.
• Uses: Used in cooking, baking, and as a finishing salt. Versatile for various culinary applications.

• Harvesting and Processing: Celtic salt is more traditionally and minimally processed, retaining more moisture and minerals. Sea salt can vary in processing and mineral content.
• Mineral Content: Celtic salt tends to have a higher mineral content due to its traditional harvesting methods.
• Appearance and Texture: Celtic salt is often moist and gray, while sea salt is typically drier and whiter.
• Flavor: Celtic salt has a more complex, briny flavor, whereas sea salt has a more straightforward saltiness.

References: