European Studies on Halotherapy (Salt Therapy): What We Know & How to Use It Wisely

Halotherapy—also called salt therapy—is a wellness practice that uses dry salt aerosol (or a salt-room environment) to support relaxation and, for some people, breathing comfort. At Be Still Wellness Center & Spa, we offer a private Salt Lounge experience designed for calm, restorative time—perfect for couples who want to unplug together.

This article is for educational purposes only and isn’t medical advice. If you have asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions, please talk with your healthcare provider before trying salt therapy.

What European research has explored

A meaningful portion of published halotherapy research comes from Europe, where salt rooms and speleotherapy (therapy in salt caves/mines) have a longer history. Many studies focus on respiratory symptoms and quality-of-life measures.

What the studies tend to show (in plain language)

Across European studies, results are mixed. Some report improvements in symptoms like congestion, cough, or perceived breathing ease after a series of sessions, while others find limited benefit or note that stronger study designs are needed.

Common conditions studied

• Asthma: Some studies report improved symptom scores after repeated sessions, but findings aren’t consistent across all trials.

• Chronic bronchitis/COPD: Research often looks at mucus clearance and breathing comfort; outcomes vary by protocol and participant group.

• Allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergies): Some studies suggest possible relief of nasal symptoms, though more high-quality trials are still needed.

Why results can vary

European studies don’t all use the same approach—some use dry salt aerosol generators, others use natural salt caves/mines, and session length and frequency can differ widely. Many studies also have small sample sizes, which makes it harder to draw firm conclusions.

How to approach salt therapy as a wellness practice

If you’re curious about halotherapy, consider it a supportive wellness experience—similar to other relaxation-focused modalities. Many guests enjoy it as a quiet reset for the nervous system, especially when paired with intentional breathing and a calm environment.

Try our Couples Salt Lounge at Be Still

Our Salt Lounge is a private, peaceful space where couples can slow down together. If you’re looking for a gentle way to decompress—especially during high-stress seasons—this can be a beautiful addition to your self-care routine.

Quick FAQ

How many sessions do people usually try? Many studies look at a series of sessions over several weeks, rather than a single visit.

Is it safe for everyone? If you’re pregnant, have severe asthma/COPD, or have any medical concerns, check with your clinician first.