Salt Crystal Lamp -- Debunk?

[luxun2]

So my dad got this Salt Crystal Lamp for a wedding gift that supposedly freshens the air naturally, and I need some help explaining to him why this doesn't actually work. It says on the box: "This lamp is scientifically proven to work like an air purifier. When lit, it can emit negative ions that fight against positively charged particles that cause us to feel stuffy and sluggish."
Paraphrasing here, it also vaguely implies that " A heat source will ionize the air with the help of the Himalayan salt that encompasses it."

In order for particles to be ionized don't you need a particle emitted with a big charge like an alpha particle? Also, since when do positively charged particles cause mal-effects in humans or tissue? Well, if you could help clarify this to me and furthermore my dad I would be very grateful. Even more interesting is how expensive this lamp was, you'd think it would look sharp but no. It looks like rice that went bad, considering its just a misshapen salt block with bulb in it. But I have a feeling you guys are smart enough to know this is a product that is trying to sell you something you didn't know you need. Thanks!

 

[Evo]

I know that negative ion therapy has shown to help alleviate depression in clinical studies, but it was a very high amount of negative ions, the salt lamps and even air purifiers that emit negative ions do not emit enough to produce an effect.

The method does have an interesting precedent, in that many electronic air purifiers utilize negative ion technology. However, don’t expect your air purifier to deliver antidepressant effects—most often, the dose would be far too low, and we are evaluating special apparatus for this purpose.

http://asp.cumc.columbia.edu/psych/asktheexperts/ask_the_experts_inquiry.asp?SI=102

More here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Negative_air_ionization_therapy

 

[wukunlin]

those lamps... we have one in our living room and I feel like throwing it into the bin ever since the moment my parents took it home. It's okay if you like its looks (doesn't look like it from your post), otherwise there are much more fulfilling ways to spend your money. Most of my friends in medical school and doctors I've talked to always shake their heads in disgust when people ask them about that negative ion business.

 

[Evo]

I know someone that has one, it's a nice night light. As a piece of accent furniture, they can be attractive. Do they do anything except put out a bit of light from the light bulb, no.

 

[TumblingDice]

PsychonautQQ got one for Xmas. I wonder if it's been assessed by now or re-gifted?

Himalayan Salt Lamp for Xmas

 

[luxun2]

Thanks for the replies guys.

 

[leroyjenkens]

those lamps... we have one in our living room and I feel like throwing it into the bin ever since the moment my parents took it home. It's okay if you like its looks (doesn't look like it from your post), otherwise there are much more fulfilling ways to spend your money. Most of my friends in medical school and doctors I've talked to always shake their heads in disgust when people ask them about that negative ion business.

Combine it with that wristband that has frequencies inside of it to make you never fall down, and you'll be immortal.