is it really safe to use aquarium salt in fresh water tank ?

Question
I changed my water and after 2 days it started to get cloudy, I was told to add some aquarium salt to my fresh water tank with the stress coat, I have hard water where I live.  I have parrot fish 2,and a loach left.  I didn't think this was good advise but after talking to this sales person I bought it and added it.  My fish were at the top of the tank within 30 minutes gasping for air. I took 75% of water out thinking I made a big mistake.  My fish are better now.  Is it even safe to use this type of salt in fresh water fish..or was I fed a line of bad information.

Answer
Hi Randi,
 There is no reason to add salt to a freshwater tank, particularly one with parrot cichlids in it.  It is a common myth that adding salt does some good. It typically does not, and can create problems.

-- Ron Coleman
  rcoleman@cichlidresearch.com
  Cichlid Research Home Page <http://cichlidresearch.com>