AN ALTERNATIVE health treatment which claims to offer a cure for asthma has been launched in Hove.

The first Salt Cave in the city offers a natural treatment for various health conditions including cystic fibrosis.

Salt therapy was used by the Ancient Greeks and the practice has more recently enjoyed a revival in America.

But critics say there is no scientific evidence the alternative treatment is effective.

Julie Dunn, of Hove, was inspired to launch the business after she said it helped a friend.

She said: “I knew someone with chronic asthma who had to give up walking because of the condition.

"She visited the Edinburgh Salt Cave, which opened a few years ago, and within five or six sessions she’d discarded one of the two inhalers she was using and had begun walking again.”

The cave recreates the 'healing micro climate' of a natural salt cave.

Julie explained: “We have a machine that releases tiny particles of salt into the lungs. They’re so small that they can go deep into the lungs and clear blockages.”

It is thought to help to treat conditions ranging from asthma to cystic fibrosis.

Julie explained the benefits of the treatment: “The salt is anti inflammatory and reduces inflamed tubes, and it also loosens mucus, which can be a problem for cystic fibrosis sufferers who can’t lodge the mucus themselves, because it can get inflamed.”

The cave provides separate environments for adults and children. Adults are given a quiet cave with soothing music, while children are provided with a separate cave filled with activities such as toys, books and TV.

Julie said that the response from the public has been positive.

“It’s been very good because it’s helped people who struggle on a daily basis with their condition and they’ve seen the results very quickly. We’re also NHS approved and help COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) sufferers.

Hove MP Peter Kyle, who opened the cave, added: "It's fantastic to have such a unique centre here.

"It's a great example of the diverse and wide range of businesses that are increasingly choosing to locate in Hove and Portslade."