FAQs

What is a salt cave?

A salt cave is a man-made, spa-like environment designed to mimic the conditions of natural underground salt mines. Used for a holistic practice called halotherapy (or salt therapy), these rooms feature walls lined with salt bricks and are engineered to disperse dry, micronized pharmaceutical-grade salt into the air. The Salt Cave Minneapolis has created two caves that mimic these conditions.

How does salt therapy work?

Enjoyed by Europeans for centuries, salt therapy (also known as halotherapy) is becoming more widely recognized in the U.S. as a natural, drug-free supplement or alternative to common medical treatments. Simply put, halotherapy emulates the conditions inside a natural salt cave by infusing the air with tiny particles of pharmaceutical-grade salt. These particles are not only safe to breathe but also have been shown to alleviate symptoms of various ailments. The addition of Himalayan crystal salts on the walls and floor of the cave further enhances the experience and helps to create an especially calm, relaxing environment.

Are visitors allowed to touch/handle the salt IN THE SALT CAVE?

Our caves took great care in building and we ask that everyone enjoys the beauty of the salt with the same care. The walls are meant for looking, not touching. The floor of the caves can be a place to play and/or lay. Keeping these surfaces intact helps to ensure the best possible environment for all who uses the cave. We ask that parents who accompany children in session take extra care to ensure that their kids understand these guidelines.

What should I wear in the salt cave?

Comfortable, casual clothing is fine. Lighter colors are better at hiding the salt dust from the room. Please note that shoes are not permitted in the salt cave; we ask that you wear clean socks / stockings or you can go barefoot with clean feet. Additionally, we ask visitors to refrain from wearing perfumes or fragrances as a courtesy to other visitors who may have an allergy or sensitivity.

Are beverages/food allowed in the salt cave?

No. If you have food or beverages with you, we ask that you leave them in the reception area during your session.

Are children allowed in the salt cave?

Of Course! Children experience the same benefits of salt therapy as adults, and we encourage parents to consider it as a natural, drug-free treatment option. Kids are now able to schedule during any of our open hours for a children’s session. For any session, children under 9 years of age must be accompanied by an adult guardian.

What is the temperature inside the cave?

The caves are kept at a comfortable temperature with very low humidity. We keep it cool in the summer and warm and toasty during the winter months! Feel free to bring a sweatshirt. We also have blankets available.

Is it dark inside the SALT cave?

Using Himalayan salt lamps and adjustable overhead lighting, we maintain a somewhat dim level of light inside the cave to create a calm, relaxing atmosphere. The lower-level cave has a back-lit Himalayan salt wall for light therapy.

Is there sound/music inside the SALT cave?

For the comfort of all our visitors, we strive to maintain a calm, quiet environment inside the cave. A choice of ocean waves and various meditations are played throughout the sessions. Mobile phones should be turned off and/or stowed in the reception area.

How long is a SALT CAVE session?

A standard session lasts 45 minutes. Longer sessions can be arranged by special appointment.

Do you take walk-ins AT THE SALT CAVE MINNESOTA?

Because space in the cave is limited, we strongly encourage visitors to book in advance. That said, if there are open slots, we will gladly accept walk-ins. Keep in mind that we cannot open the cave once a session has started, so late arrivals or walk-ins who check in past the top of the hour will be asked to wait for the next available slot.

If I prepaid for a session and I show up late or have to cancel at the last minute, can I re-book without paying another session fee?

We have a 24 hr cancelation policy for traditional sessions. In some cases, we will re-book your session at no additional cost. However, if this happens during busy times or a visitor is a no show for the session - we will have to charge a session. Our no show policy is payment of 100% of the cost. Please make every effort to call in advance if you need to reschedule.

Are salt cave treatments covered by health insurance?

Check with your physician or health insurance provider to find out whether salt therapy may be covered under your plan.

Can I pay for salt cave treatments using a health savings account (HSA)?

Most HSAs will allow members to pay for salt therapy using HSA funds as long as the treatment is accompanied by a referral from a physician. Consult with your own HSA administrator for details.

Is the cave safe for pregnant women?

Salt therapy is perfectly safe for women at any stage of pregnancy. Because pregnancy can affect women in different ways, you're invited to consult with your doctor if you have specific questions or concerns, but generally speaking, a visit to the cave is as safe as breathing the salt air by the beach.

Should I be concerned about spending time in the cave with other people who might be sick?

No more than you would be concerned about sharing an elevator, a meeting room or other everyday spaces. People who suspect that they have a contagious condition are asked to wait until their condition improves before attending a group session. We do our very best to encourage people to use The Salt Cave as a way to prevent. In any case, the natural antibacterial and antiviral properties of Himalayan crystal salt can help to minimize the everyday risk of catching a cold, etc.

Is The Salt Cave wheelchair accessible?

We do our best to accommodate people of all abilities. Wheelchairs cannot go into The Salt Cave for the same reason that shoes are not permitted, as moisture and dirt can damage the salt that is on the floor. We are happy to help people into the chairs if needed. If you are not in a wheelchair yet are unable to use stairs, please give us a call to be sure that our main floor cave is available to use.

How often do I need to visit the salt cave to experience its benefits?

It can vary depending on your individual health condition and how well your own body responds to salt therapies. Some may find it beneficial to visit more often during times when problems such as allergy symptoms tend to be more severe (i.e., changing seasons), or during periods of increased physical or emotional stress. If you're booking sessions related to a chronic, specifically diagnosed health issue, we also recommend that you ask your doctor for input regarding the frequency of salt cave visits. Some guidelines can be found on our TREATMENTS page.

How was the SALT cave constructed?

Both salt caves in Minneapolis were created by the owners. The upstairs cave was hand-built by owners Scott and Jenni, as well as an amazing team of brilliant people. Formerly a chiropractic office, the space was substantially renovated to accommodate the six to seven tons (12,000-14,000 pounds in each cave) of Himalayan crystal salts used on the walls and floor, as well as the highly specialized halogenerator, which was imported from Estonia. Our downstairs cave opened in October 2014 featuring a completely redesigned cave by owners Scott and Jenni. A huge Himalayan salt wall glows with lighting behind with a beautiful wood design combined with salt.

Can I buy salt at the Salt Cave?

At The Salt Cave Minnesota we carry Minneapolis' largest selection of Himalayan salts and salt-based retail items for purchase, including salt lamps, salt blocks for cooking, natural bath salts and soaps, and more!

How many SALT THERAPY TREATMENTS Do I need?

The Salt Cave Minnesota is a one-of-a-kind place designed to promote and support relaxation and general wellness. The walls and floor of each cave were constructed by hand using more than six tons of pure Himalayan crystal salt, and the air in the cave is treated by a specialized halogenerator, which infuses the air with a dry aerosol containing tiny particles of pharmaceutical grade salt. Clinical studies have shown that when people inhale this type of salt air, it can help to stimulate the natural ability of their respiratory system to reduce inflammation, fight infection, clear blockages and reduce discomfort. Visitors typically spend each 45-minute session relaxing in a chair or on a yoga mat. Alternately, special group sessions might include sound baths, yoga, or meditation. You can also book a session for you , a group, and your kid(s)! In all cases, the primary source of respiratory benefit is the inhalation of the cave's specially treated salt air.

Below is a list of conditions that have been shown to respond to salt therapy. Visitors with a chronic or specific health condition are advised to direct specific questions about salt therapy to their physician as needed. Please visit The Salt Therapy Association for more research supported materials.

Asthma
Allergies
Bronchitis
Cystic Fibrosis
Sinusitis
Stress/Anxiety
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Smokers Cough
Frequent bronchial and/or sinus related issues

Frequent ear infections
Weakened immune system
Post-operative recovery
Circulatory issues
Fatigue
Depression
Sleep Disorders
Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis

Which ailments are relieved by salt therapy?

Respiratory Conditions: Salt therapy is commonly used to alleviate symptoms and improve lung function in individuals with respiratory conditions such as:

*Asthma: The anti-inflammatory properties of salt can help reduce airway inflammation and mucus production, making breathing easier for asthma patients.

*Chronic Bronchitis: Salt therapy can help clear excess mucus from the airways, reducing coughing and improving lung function.

*Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Halotherapy can offerrelief by opening up air passages and reducing respiratory distress in COPD patients.

*Allergies: Salt therapy can help alleviate allergy symptoms by reducing inflammation and clearing irritants from the airways.

*Skin Conditions: The therapeutic properties of salt can also benefit various skin ailments, including:

*Eczema: Salt therapy may help soothe inflammation and reduce itching, providing relief to those suffering from eczema.

*Psoriasis: The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects of salt can help manage psoriasis symptoms and promote skin healing.

*Acne: Salt's antimicrobial properties can bebeneficial for individuals dealing with acne by reducing bacteria on the skin.

What is the recommended number of salt therapy sessions?

The number of recommended salt therapy sessions can vary depending on the severity of the ailment and the individual's response to the treatment. Generally, a series of sessions are recommended to experience the full benefits of halotherapy. A typical treatment plan may include:

1. Mild Conditions: For mild respiratory or skin conditions, a course of 10 to 20 sessions, taken over several weeks, may be sufficient to observe improvements and symptom relief.

2. Moderate Conditions: Individuals with more moderate ailments may benefit from a longer treatment plan, ranging from 20 to 30 sessions, typically taken over a few months.

3. Severe Conditions: For individuals with severe or chronic respiratory or skin conditions, a more extended treatment plan may be necessary, with 30 or more sessions spread over several months.

It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or salt therapy specialist to determine the appropriate number of treatment sessions based on the specific condition and individual needs. Additionally, salt therapy can complement conventional medical treatments, but it should not be used as a substitute for prescribed medications or therapies.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SALT CAVE MINNEAPOLIS