What Happens If I Put Salt Under My Tongue? The Science, Risks, And Fascinating Facts

Author Maxima 18 Apr 2025

Ever wondered what happens if you put salt under your tongue? Well, buckle up, because this is going to be an interesting ride. We’ve all had that moment where curiosity strikes, and suddenly you’re contemplating putting random things under your tongue to see what happens. Salt, being one of the most common kitchen staples, seems harmless enough, right? But there’s more to this little experiment than meets the eye. In this article, we’re diving deep into the science, effects, risks, and everything in between when it comes to putting salt under your tongue. So, grab a snack (just don’t use too much salt!) and let’s get started.

Putting salt under your tongue might sound like a quirky thing to try, but there’s actually some science behind it. While it’s not exactly a health hack or a miracle cure, understanding what happens when salt interacts with your body can be pretty fascinating. This article will explore everything you need to know about this curious habit, from the physiological effects to potential dangers.

Let’s face it, we all have those moments when we’re just trying to figure out how the world works. Whether it’s out of boredom, curiosity, or even a dare, experimenting with everyday items like salt can lead to some surprising discoveries. But is it safe? And what exactly happens when salt meets the sensitive tissues under your tongue? Stick around to find out!

Why Do People Put Salt Under Their Tongues?

Before we dive into the science, let’s talk about why people even consider putting salt under their tongues in the first place. For starters, it’s not exactly a new trend. In fact, certain cultures and alternative medicine practices have been using this method for centuries. Some believe that placing salt under the tongue can provide quick absorption of nutrients or even help with certain health conditions.

Here are a few reasons why people do it:

Rapid Absorption: The tissue under your tongue is highly vascular, meaning it has a rich blood supply. This allows substances placed there to enter the bloodstream quickly.
Detoxification: Some proponents of alternative medicine claim that salt under the tongue can help detoxify the body, though there’s little scientific evidence to support this.
Curiosity: Let’s not forget the power of curiosity! Many people simply try it because they want to see what happens.

But is there any truth to these claims? Let’s break it down.

What Happens When Salt Meets Your Tongue?

When you place salt under your tongue, several things happen almost immediately. First, the salt begins to dissolve in the moisture present in your mouth. This creates a salty sensation that your taste buds quickly pick up on. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Underneath your tongue lies a network of blood vessels known as the sublingual region. When salt dissolves here, it can enter your bloodstream relatively quickly. However, the amount of salt that actually gets absorbed is minimal compared to what you’d consume through food.

How Salt Absorption Works

The sublingual region is unique because it allows for rapid absorption of certain substances. This is why medications like nitroglycerin are often administered this way. However, salt isn’t exactly a medication, and its effects are much less dramatic. Here’s what happens step by step:

Salt dissolves in the saliva under your tongue.
The dissolved salt is absorbed into the bloodstream through the sublingual tissue.
Once in the bloodstream, the salt travels to various parts of your body, where it may affect hydration levels and electrolyte balance.

While this process might sound impressive, the actual impact on your body is usually negligible unless you’re consuming large amounts of salt regularly.

Is Putting Salt Under Your Tongue Safe?

Now that we’ve covered the science, let’s talk about safety. Is putting salt under your tongue safe? The short answer is yes, but with some caveats. For most people, placing a small amount of salt under your tongue occasionally isn’t harmful. However, there are a few risks to consider:

Irritation: Salt can irritate the delicate tissues under your tongue, especially if you use too much or do it frequently.
Hydration Issues: Consuming excessive amounts of salt, even through sublingual absorption, can disrupt your body’s electrolyte balance and lead to dehydration.
Health Risks: If you have certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure or kidney problems, even small amounts of extra salt can be problematic.

It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before trying anything new, especially if you have underlying health issues.

What Are the Potential Benefits?

While there aren’t many scientifically proven benefits to putting salt under your tongue, some people swear by it for various reasons. Here are a few potential benefits that have been suggested:

Quick Energy Boost: Some believe that the rapid absorption of minerals from salt can provide a quick energy boost, though this hasn’t been scientifically validated.
Improved Hydration: Certain types of salt, like Himalayan pink salt, contain trace minerals that may help with hydration. However, the effect is likely minimal when consumed sublingually.
Detoxification: As mentioned earlier, some alternative medicine practitioners claim that salt under the tongue can help detoxify the body. Again, there’s little evidence to support this.

While these benefits might sound appealing, it’s important to approach them with a healthy dose of skepticism. Always prioritize evidence-based practices when it comes to your health.

What Are the Risks?

As with anything, there are potential risks associated with putting salt under your tongue. While occasional use is generally safe, excessive or frequent use can lead to problems. Here are a few risks to watch out for:

Oral Irritation: The sensitive tissues under your tongue can become irritated or even damaged if exposed to salt for too long or too often.
Electrolyte Imbalance: Consuming too much salt, even through sublingual absorption, can disrupt your body’s delicate balance of electrolytes, leading to dehydration or other issues.
Health Complications: If you have conditions like high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart problems, even small amounts of extra salt can exacerbate these issues.

It’s crucial to listen to your body and stop if you experience any discomfort or adverse effects.

How Much Salt Is Too Much?

The amount of salt you put under your tongue can make a big difference. A pinch or two is generally safe, but anything more than that could lead to problems. The World Health Organization recommends consuming no more than 5 grams of salt per day, so it’s important to keep this in mind when experimenting with sublingual salt.

What Types of Salt Can You Use?

Not all salt is created equal, and the type of salt you use can affect the experience. Here are a few common types of salt and their potential benefits:

Table Salt: The most common type of salt, table salt is highly processed and contains added iodine. It’s effective for sublingual use but may lack the trace minerals found in other types of salt.
Himalayan Pink Salt: Known for its rich mineral content, Himalayan pink salt is a popular choice for those looking for a more natural option. It’s often praised for its potential health benefits, though these claims are not always backed by science.
Celtic Sea Salt: This unrefined salt is harvested from the coast of France and contains a variety of trace minerals. It’s often used in alternative medicine practices.

Ultimately, the type of salt you choose depends on your personal preferences and goals. Just remember to use it in moderation!

Can Putting Salt Under Your Tongue Cure Anything?

While some people claim that putting salt under your tongue can cure various ailments, there’s little scientific evidence to support these claims. That being said, here are a few conditions that some believe can be helped by this practice:

Dehydration: As mentioned earlier, certain types of salt contain trace minerals that may help with hydration. However, drinking water is still the best way to stay hydrated.
Electrolyte Imbalance: Salt can help replenish electrolytes, but again, the effect is likely minimal when consumed sublingually.
Low Blood Pressure: Some people believe that salt under the tongue can help raise blood pressure, though this hasn’t been scientifically proven.

It’s important to approach these claims with caution and rely on proven medical treatments for serious health issues.

How to Try It Safely

If you’re curious about putting salt under your tongue, here are a few tips to ensure you do it safely:

Start Small: Begin with a small pinch of salt to see how your body reacts.
Choose Quality Salt: Opt for high-quality, unrefined salt if possible.
Listen to Your Body: If you experience any discomfort or adverse effects, stop immediately.
Consult a Professional: If you have any health concerns, talk to a healthcare professional before trying anything new.

By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risks and enjoy the experience responsibly.

Conclusion

So, what happens if you put salt under your tongue? The answer is a mix of science, curiosity, and a little bit of caution. While it’s generally safe to try occasionally, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and limitations. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost, improved hydration, or just a fun experiment, putting salt under your tongue can be an interesting way to explore the world around you.

Remember, your health is your most valuable asset. Always prioritize evidence-based practices and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. And if you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to share it with your friends and leave a comment below. Who knows, maybe you’ll inspire someone else to try something new!