HIMALAYAN salt is a product that many people have been placing in beauty goodie bags, but what exactly are you supposed to do with it? Herbalist Kenute Harrison says it’s as versatile a product as they come — useful not only in the kitchen, but for beauty as well.

Himalayan salt is a coarse, mainly pink (it can come in other colours too) salt originating from India. Its pink colour is due to the presence of trace minerals, and it’s said to contain calcium, iron, zinc, chromium, magnesium, and sulphate. It can be used in the kitchen as a table salt, but it should be noted that it doesn’t contain iodine.

What can you use Himalayan salt for in your beauty routine? Harrison said it’s excellent in these areas:

1. As a foot soak

In much the same way you use Epsom salt after a long day to soothe swollen, tired feet, use Himalayan salt in a tub of warm water to soak your feet. You will feel better in no time.

2. As a foot scrub

When you’re doing your home pedicures, use Himalayan salt mixed with a carrier oil or butter, like coconut oil or shea butter, as a foot scrub or to massage your feet after you’ve scrubbed them.

3. As an exfoliant

Use in the shower over rough skin areas like your elbows, knees, butt, and on freshly shaved or waxed skin to exfoliate, and to encourage blood circulation. If you add a carrier oil, it also makes the salt absorb and work better, and you will be rewarded with soft, glowing skin.

4. Acne scrub

Harrison advises that you mix Himalayan salt with aloe vera for an acne scrub for your skin. Leave on for a few minutes, then rinse and moisturise. The Himalayan salt will act as an exfoliant, while the aloe will soothe inflamed skin. Harrison says it can also be used to treat eczema and other dry skin conditions, also acting as an exfoliant and anti-inflammatory.

5. Dandruff treatment

Is dry scalp the bane of your existence? Himalayan salt can loosen dandruff and help eliminate product build-up on your scalp. It can also help with blood circulation for your scalp, when you massage it in.

6. Bath de-stress

Fill your bathtub with water, then add some Himalayan salt and soak your stresses away. For added oomph, light some candles and grab a book while you let the salt do its work. You’ll leave your bath feeling refreshed and less tense.