Black salt is a powder of dark gray, sometimes beige or pink color with the smell of hydrogen sulfide (or boiled, slightly spoiled, eggs). It is not salt in the traditional sense, but rather a mineral mixture in which sodium chloride is only one of the components. In a number of countries, it is black salt that is preferred to use in cooking, because it is, in the opinion of its adepts, safer and more useful.
Black salt taste and smell
At the first meeting, the taste and smell of black salt is rejected, they are so repulsive. It tastes less salty than other salts and leaves behind a pronounced metallic aftertaste. Since black salt is of volcanic origin, the aroma also carries the corresponding aroma, i.e. dominated by notes of sulfur, dried garlic and asafoetida (a spice with a resinous garlic-onion scent). However, after heat treatment, the "bouquet" becomes a little more tender and resembles the soft smell of the earth.
Useful properties of black salt
Due to the rather low content of sodium chloride in the composition of black salt, this mineral mixture (powder) is the least hazardous compared to other salts. It does not retain fluid in the body, does not accumulate on the joints. Potassium, iron, iodine and other macro- and microelements that make up black salt significantly improve the digestive system, have a beneficial effect on intestinal motility, thereby helping to get rid of constipation and excessive gas formation.
In accordance with the canons of the ancient medical science - Ayurveda - volcanic black salt contains elements of fire and water and supports not only the functions of digestion, but also clarity of mind to a ripe old age.
A number of scientists believe that black salt can improve blood circulation, relieve acute poisoning, normalize blood pressure, and remove heavy metals. To do this, it is enough just in the morning, 10 minutes before breakfast, to take a saline solution inside (1 tsp. Without a slide in a glass of water). An excellent therapeutic effect is produced by black salt when taking salt baths: all the minerals contained in it enter the human body through the skin. Such baths are indicated for asthma, skin diseases, as well as for the active removal of toxins.
In the countries of the East and Asia, black salt is often used instead of regular salt. Vegetables, yoghurts are seasoned with crushed mineral powder, be sure to add to chutney - an Indian combined seasoning made from vegetables or fruits with vinegar and spices, sometimes with honey and curry.
Black Thursday salt
Volcanic black salt should not be confused with salt, also called black, but made by hand by man. In Russia, it was traditionally prepared on the eve of Easter on Maundy Thursday. It is also called Thursday salt. To prepare it, they took coarse rock salt and burned it in an oven with cabbage leaves, rye bread, leavened milk or medicinal herbs. After the mixture was charred, it was pounded and sieved. The prepared salt was blessed along with Easter cakes and eggs.
