While many people pack snacks like chips or candies for a journey, Bollywood star Kajol has a unique travel essential rooted in the Indian kitchen: kaala namak, or black salt. The acclaimed actress recently shared this personal quirk, revealing it's a constant companion on her trips, a habit that blends taste with unexpected health benefits.
More Than Just a Flavour Enhancer
In a candid conversation, Kajol explained her fondness for this distinctive salt. She pointed out that sometimes food lacks sufficient seasoning during travel, and kaala namak offers a unique taste profile that regular salt cannot match. "I love to carry kaala namak. That's one thing I always have with me," she stated, adding that its pungent, sulphur-like tang can elevate everything from chips to various favourite dishes.
This preference for a flavour lift is backed by culinary science. Senior Clinical Nutritionist Aditi Prasad Apte from Aster RV Hospital confirms that kaala namak's sharp, tangy profile acts as a powerful taste booster. A small pinch can transform fruits, salads, curd, buttermilk, and chaat, beautifully balancing sweetness and blandness. Its ability to mimic an egg-like taste also makes it a popular ingredient in vegan cooking.
A Natural Remedy for Travel Troubles
Beyond flavour, Kajol's habit touches on a traditional wellness practice. According to Aditi Prasad Apte, kaala namak has long been used as a natural aid for common travel-induced discomforts. During long road trips, issues like nausea, acidity, gas, or vomiting are frequent. Black salt can help improve digestion, reduce bloating, and ease general stomach discomfort.
Its unique salty-sour taste is known to help rapidly control motion sickness and combat loss of appetite. When mixed with water or lemon, it can also support hydration and electrolyte balance, especially in hot weather, presenting an easy-to-carry, drug-free alternative for mild issues.
Mindful Consumption is Key
However, nutritionists emphasise balance and mindful usage. Apte advises using kaala namak as a finishing salt, added after cooking or just before serving, to preserve its aromatic qualities without overpowering the dish. She recommends starting with a tiny pinch, tasting, and then adding more if needed. Proper storage in an airtight container is also crucial to maintain its quality and potency.
While a craving for kaala namak doesn't typically signal a serious mineral deficiency, frequent desire for it during travel could sometimes indicate dehydration, low electrolyte levels, stress, or underlying digestive discomfort. The flip side of overuse must be considered: excessive sodium intake can lead to bloating, water retention, increased blood pressure, or aggravated acidity, particularly if water consumption is low.
For Kajol, it's a matter of flavour and familiar comfort. For health experts, it's a tool that requires thoughtful use. The story of this humble kitchen staple, carried in a celebrity's bag, underscores a simple truth: kaala namak works best when used judiciously—just enough to soothe both the palate and the stomach on the go.
Disclaimer: This article is based on public information and expert insights. Always consult your healthcare practitioner before making any changes to your diet or health routine.
