Common salt mainly consists of a chemical compound known as sodium chloride, and it is found in nature in the form of mineral crystals known as rock salt or halite.

Table salt is found in abundance in seawater, as it is the main mineral component in it. The ocean contains about 35 grams of salt per liter, which is considered a large group of salts and has a salinity of 3.5%. Salt is essential for animal life, and it is found in animal tissues more than plant tissues.

Therefore, the natural diet of the Bedouins does not need salt or added in small quantities because they depend on their flocks, but the wheat-based diet requires more salt. Salinity is one of the basics senses of taste for a human being. Salt is one of the oldest and most available spices, and salting is one of the most important methods to preserve the food.

Some evidence indicates that salt use dates back to 8,000 years ago when the Romans used to boil spring water to extract the salt. Tools for salt extracting have been found in China dating approximately to the same period of Romans. Salt was prized by the ancient Jews, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Hittites, and Egyptians.

Salt became a valuable commodity, and it was transferred by boat across the Mediterranean via special routes for salt and caravans across the Great Desert. The lack of salt, the countries 'need for it, and their use to increase tax revenues led to wars between countries. Salt is also used in rituals in some religions and some cultures.

The importance of sodium
Sodium is an important mineral for the body, and it interferes with other minerals such as potassium, to regulate many important vital processes in the body.
It plays an important role in regulating fluid and acid balance in the body.
It is necessary for transmitting nerve signals and for muscle contraction.
It regulates the digestive system.
Maintains body temperature and prevents sunstroke.

Caveats

We have always been warned about salt - or what is known by the common scientific name sodium chloride - and the risks to our body and health from overuse.
Excessive consumption of salt and sodium, in particular, may lead to fluid retention in the body or what is known as edema.
High blood pressure.
It may increase the risk of developing heart failure.

Benefits of table salt
Save water and fluids in the cells of the body.
Sodium and potassium work to control and store the water in the body. It is good for nerve action and transmission of the nerve signal. Sodium with other minerals creates the electrical impulses that control many of the body functions.

Sodium is good for the digestive system. Salt contains nutrients necessary for the digestive system, and it plays an essential role in the processes of digestion and absorption.

Other benefits
Tighten muscles and prevent muscle cramps.
Maintaining a heart rate and strengthening the heart.
Salt makes us feel thirsty that led to drinking enough water.
Improving the adrenal gland and stimulating its activity.
It prevents sunstroke.
Some research has proven that salt plays an important role in improving mood and relieving depression.
Salt is a disinfectant for wounds.
Salt helps to absorb protein after digestion.
It stops bleeding, especially bleeding gums, and maintains the health of the mouth and teeth. A lack of salt in the body leads to many problems, such as disturbances in the fluid balance in the tissues and an imbalance in the acid-base balance.

Sources of sodium

1. salt.
2. Manufactured foods.
3. Cheese.
4. Eggs.
5. Hazelnuts.
6. Bread and cereal.
7. Meat and fish.
8. Smoked meats and fish.
9. Pickled.
10. Olives.