The holy month of Sawan is considered a symbol of worship, fasting, and devotion to Lord Shiva. During this period, millions of devotees observe Sawan Mondays, Shivratri, Teej, and other fasts. Special rules regarding food are followed during the fast, and one important tradition is to consume only rock salt instead of table salt. This tradition is not limited to religious beliefs; many scientific and health-related reasons are also cited for it.
According to religious beliefs, the purpose of fasting is not merely to abstain from food, but also to purify the body, mind, and soul. Therefore, it is recommended to consume foods that are natural, pure, and minimally processed during the fast. Rock salt is naturally obtained from rocks and is not subjected to extensive chemical processing. For this reason, it is considered pure and sattvic, whereas regular salt is processed in factories and contains other elements, including iodine. For this reason, religious traditions consider rock salt more suitable for fasting than regular salt.
Scientifically, rock salt is also considered beneficial in many ways. Long periods of abstaining from regular food during fasting can disrupt the electrolyte balance in the body. Rock salt helps maintain this balance and is considered helpful in reducing fatigue and weakness.
According to experts, rock salt contains relatively less sodium and more minerals like potassium and magnesium than regular salt. This is why it is considered relatively mild on the digestive system. Rock salt is used in sago, buckwheat, water chestnut flour, yogurt, fruits, and other vegetarian dishes during fasting to ensure the body receives essential minerals.
Rock salt is also considered relatively cooling in nature. It is believed to help maintain water balance, improve digestion, and reduce fatigue during prolonged fasting. However, health experts also advise that both rock salt and regular salt should be consumed in limited quantities.
For those in certain circumstances, such as pregnancy, advanced age, or those suffering from an illness, staying on an empty stomach for long periods is not considered appropriate. Such individuals should consume a balanced diet of fruits and adequate amounts of rock salt, as advised by a doctor, to avoid weakness or electrolyte deficiency.
Both religious beliefs and scientific perspectives suggest that the use of rock salt during fasting is not merely a tradition, but a balanced system adopted keeping in mind the body’s needs. However, in case of any health problem, decisions regarding fasting and diet should be made only in accordance with medical advice.