Significance of Sea-salt
Sea-salt is viewed differently across various traditions. In Jainism, it can be seen as impure and is generally discouraged for mendicants unless prepared properly. Ayurveda emphasizes its unique properties, highlighting its appetite-enhancing and digestive qualities. Rasashastra recognizes it as an essential ingredient in medicinal mixtures, including bira salt. Theravada Buddhism allows its use as a medicinal option for monks. Overall, Sea-salt carries significant implications on purity, health benefits, and its role in spiritual practices.
Synonyms: Marine salt, Saline
In Dutch: Zeezout; In Finnish: Meri-suolaa; In Spanish: Sal marina; In German: Meersalz
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sea-salt'
In Buddhism, Sea-salt represents a medicinal substance permissible for Bhikkhus, signifying its importance in promoting health and well-being within the monastic community. It embodies both practical and spiritual significance in spiritual practices.
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A type of salt that can be used as medicine, specifically mentioned among the salts allowed for the Bhikkhus.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Sea-salt'
In Hinduism, sea-salt is valued for its unique properties, digestive benefits, and medicinal qualities, making it an essential ingredient in various remedies and dietary preparations, reflecting its significance in holistic health practices.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) One of the five salts included in the medicinal mixture.[2] (2) A type of salt derived from the sea, used in the medicinal mixture as listed in the ingredients.[3] (3) Salt obtained from the sea, included in the mixture at a quantity of one tola.[4] (4) Salt obtained from seawater, included as one of the ingredients of the medicine.[5] (5) Commonly used salt derived from evaporated seawater, included in the preparation.[6]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) A key ingredient in the preparation of bira salt, derived from evaporated seawater, imparting its saline taste.[7]
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) A type of salt that comes from seawater, noted for its unique properties.[8]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) A slightly sweet salt that is appetizing, digestive, laxative, and curative of Vata.[9]
Jain concept of 'Sea-salt'
In Jainism, sea-salt symbolizes potential impurity and is discouraged for mendicants. It should be properly prepared, reflecting strict dietary rules that prioritize purity and adherence to spiritual practices.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) Another type of salt that should not be accepted by mendicants due to its potential impurity.[10] (2) Salt sourced from the sea, which is considered impure if prepared incorrectly for monks and nuns.[11]