Rock salt or Himalayan Pink Salt is extracted from the Khewra Salt Mine, which lies near the base of the Kashmir Mountains in Punjab Province Pakistan. It is world-famous to be used not merely as its beautiful pink color but in addition for the richness regarding minerals which it has, thus creating that salt extremely unlike your current typical dining room table salt. Origin and Formation Himalayan Pink Salt began to form around 250 million years ago from the Precambrian ocean, during which time it was known as a primordial sea. As the sea dried up, it left behind huge quantities of dissolved minerals - including plenty of salt. Over the period of millions of years, volcanic ash and mud flowed over these deposits eventually hardening into layers in sedimentary rocks. Mineral Composition The uniqueness of Himalayan pink salt lies in its constitution. It has more than 84 trace minerals and elements like calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper and up to iron. The hue of this salt can vary from a pale peach to deep rose due the other minerals responsible for its pigmentation. Health Benefits and Uses While Himalayan pink salt is commonly marketed with a number of health claims older studies asserting its potential have been small-sized. Just don't listen to those proponents who say it's good for you, because while they make some big promises - hydration this and nutrient absorption that! (or something) - other than balancing electrolytes in your body there isn't a whole lot of science backing them up. Its distinctive flavour gets used in cooking and is sometimes added to spa treatments and holistic health practices because of its mineral content. However, like all salt Culinary Uses It is more or less used for the same reasons as we use table salt in kitchen, on dishes but it does adds style and flavors a bit differently than normal ones. It is perfect as a finishing salt and its coarse texture also looks well presented with food. It is also used in cooking and serving, salt blocks add flavor to your presentations. Himalayan Pink Salt in Summary Not only is Himalayan pink salt a beautiful addition to any kitchen, it also contains many essential minerals! This Himalayan salt from the heart of mountains is not only a source for providing vital minerals and compounds but also used decoratively, which changes the way you touch your cuisines.