The Salt Cave of Southlake is celebrating its first anniversary, and according to owner Shelly Jackson, RN, BBA, the business has already developed a loyal following, treating a variety of ailments with the natural salt method known as halotherapy.

It was a desire to help her own daughter that motivated Jackson to launch the business. Formerly nurse with 25 years experience, she had an 8-year-old daughter that suffered from acute allergies to sources she couldn’t avoid, such as grass and trees, and traditional treatments had side effects. “I didn’t want to inoculate her little body,” says Jackson.

So she looked for alternatives and discovered halotheraphy. It turned out to be a miracle cure; plus, it is 100 percent natural. While there were other clinics in the area, Jackson and her husband opened the Salt Cave in Southlake to provide easy access to treatment close to their Colleyville home. One year later, her daughter is now almost symptom-free. Meanwhile, Jackson has helped more than 8,000 clients.

European doctors discovered this kind of treatment after observing that salt mine workers had unusually healthy respiratory systems. Over the years, researchers developed halogenerators that can distribute rock salt via an aerosol spray which is inhaled during therapy.

The Salt Cave uses Himalayan rock salt imported from Europe, which is known in local folklore culture to purify and ionize the air, as well as absorb excess moisture. Jackson says that in addition to treating allergies, halotherapy is commonly used to treat asthma, eczema, rosacea, acne, arthritis, migraines, respiratory ailments, depression and anxiety. “It’s antibacterial and antifungal,” states Jackson. “It opens up airways and acts like a big toothbrush for lungs and sinuses.”

The Salt Cave offers three different treatment rooms. The Relax Cave features inviting cavern-like surroundings with chaise lounges, calming music and heated lavender wraps. The Kid’s Cave offers a salt “beach” where children can play in the salt “sand” while they get treatments. Then there’s the Yoga Cave, where clients can participate in a yoga class facing a mountain mural while getting benefits from breathing in the salty air. In addition, the Salt Bed offers a private setting for full-body halotheraphy sessions.

Jackson said they’ve already had several people inquire about opening franchises. As a result, Salt Cave now offers licensing agreements for those that want to open a clinic in their area. “We've had lots of interest,” she says. “It’s 100 percent natural and safe. There are so many benefits, and it’s so healthy for you.”

The Salt Cave is located at 200 N. Kimball Ave., Ste. 206, in Southlake. For more information, call 817-965-7258 or visit SaltCaveSouthlake.com.

Contact freelance writer Julie Thibodeaux at 817-732-0722 or [email protected].