An ancient remedy is finding new popularity among people suffering from a variety of health problems.

For centuries, many Eastern Europeans have believed salt caves are one of the best natural remedies for breathing problems. Salt rooms, spas and caves are popping up all over the United States.

At The Salt Room in Orlando, Fla., an estimated 32,000 pounds of Caribbean sea salt covers the ceiling, walls and floor.

"The salt air stops you from having a really runny nose, and it just makes you feel much better," said visitor Mackenzie Radcliffe.

It's called halotherapy -- breathing in microscopic salt particles to help relieve respiratory problems. A generator blows the particles into the air while people relax in 45 minute, $45 sessions.

The alternative therapy has a growing number of fans, including Jill Hartman.

"My son suffers from a lot of upper respiratory issues, and the days he comes to the salt room are the evenings he goes without coughing at night when he's sleeping, " said Hartman.

Kay Rosenfelt also believes the therapy is effective.

"My allergies seem better. I haven't taken any allergy medicine in two weeks, and I'm not coughing as badly," said Rosenfelt.

"I think people are looking for alternatives. They're looking for some other things to do when their medications don't work anymore, or they're just tired of that," said Marines Hoppes, director of The Salt Room.

People visit The Salt Room looking for relief from mild asthma, allergies, colds, and a variety of other conditions.

There is some research supporting the benefits. A study published in the New England Journal Of Medicine found salt caves are an effective and safe additional therapy for cystic fibrosis patients. Experts said another study found a salt-water rinse is helping in treating the symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis. Researchers believe saline softens mucus, making it easier for the body to remove it.

Doctors said salt therapy shouldn't replace prescribed medicine.

"Nobody should use this as a primary therapy," said Dr. Kirk Voelker, a pulmonologist. "I don't have a problem with it as long as their asthma is under control, and they're doing the right thing, then they can try alternative things."

Robert Gallardo was having trouble breathing at night. The noise forced his wife to find a new place to sleep. After six salt room sessions:

"I no longer cough at night. I don't have phlegm coming up, and she actually moved back into the bedroom, so it's been good," said Gallardo.

To learn more about The Salt Room, click here.