Tag: Salt history

While the name might suggest a connection to Ireland or Scotland, Celtic salt is actually harvested on the coasts of Brittany, France. The reason they call it Celtic salt is due to the traditional, centuries-old harvesting methods passed down by Celtic communities in the region.

Historically, salt was so valuable that it was once used as a form of currency, with the English word 'salary' derived from the Latin 'salarium' for the salt given to Roman soldiers. Beyond its role in ancient economies, this simple mineral is fundamentally necessary for human survival, performing several vital functions within the body. However, while essential, its consumption must be carefully balanced.

Paleolithic humans consumed significantly less sodium than modern humans, with estimates suggesting daily intake was often below 1 gram. Cavemen and early hunter-gatherer societies acquired this essential nutrient from a variety of natural sources, including the meat and blood of animals, seafood, and natural salt deposits. Their ancient diet and lifestyle allowed for a healthy balance without the need for the high levels of salt we consume today.

The word "salary" comes from the Latin word *sal*, meaning salt, a remnant of ancient Rome where soldiers were paid with this valuable commodity. These surprising historical origins are just one of many fascinating facts about salt that go far beyond the kitchen table.

Historically, table salt was so valuable it was used as currency in ancient Rome, with the Latin word for a salt payment, *salarium*, inspiring the modern word 'salary'. This historical importance, combined with its prevalence as the primary culinary salt, explains why sodium chloride is called table salt.

Evidence suggests humans have been harvesting and using salt for at least 8,000 years, with ancient Chinese salt works dating back to 6000 BCE. These early civilizations were not seasoning their food for culinary flair alone; they depended on salt for much more fundamental needs, showing what was the original purpose of salt.