History of Salt Therapy

The benefits of Salt Therapy (Speleotherapy or Halotherapy) were first described in a book published by a Polish physician in 1834 who took patients with respiratory diseases down into salt mines for cures.

It became a standard feature of spa treatments in Eastern Europe. People suffering from respiratory diseases have been visiting salt caves for relief since the Middle Ages, and this traditional natural remedy is widely used in Russia and the Ukraine.

Until 1987, underground treatment was the only method available, but in 1987 a new system was developed in Russia, constructing Speleochambers using underground salt rock that had been hewn into blocks. These Salt Rooms recreated in clinics above ground the microclimate of salt mines. Speleochambers are certified as medical devices in Russia and scientific research has been carried out to test and report their efficacy.

Baruch Bekker, Breathewell’s Speleotherapy Advisor, is one of the pioneers of this therapy in Israel. Originating from the Ukraine, Baruch immigrated to Israel in 1996. A certified nurse specializing in breathing tract problems, he opened his first salt room in 2000, in the city of Haifa, and he has gone on to open 15 Speleotherapy clinics throughout Israel. For more information, visit www.saltroom.co.il.