I understand that the Himalayan salt has 70-80 different trace elements. The salt I use, Redmond Real Salt says it has over 50. These are raw mined salts from ancient sea beds that were formed before our industrialized and polluted society came into play. Sea salts may be mineral rich, but the salts may also be contaminated with petroleum and other pollutants found in the sea water. Much research convinced me that mined raw salt is better. I have not tried the Himalayan salt yet, but hope to some day. I love the taste of Real Salt, common table salt cannot begin to compare in taste or benefits. However, avoid refined sea salt that is found in many supermarkets, it might have a little magnesium chloride in it, but refined sea salt is really no better than common table salt. Make sure your salt is raw and unrefined.