Gargling with salt water to soothe a sore throat is a home remedy as old as time. Many question these types of methods but the truth is that this one works. There are a few things you need to know about how to effectively use it.
What Does Salt Water Do?
A good saltwater gargle has a multitude of benefits for oral health. The most immediate is that it eases inflammation, which is the primary reason a throat is sore. It also kills harmful bacteria, which can heal wounds. Salt kills germs and can knock mucus loose. It also creates a barrier that keeps water and bacteria from your mouth and throat.
Yet, there are more lesser-known benefits of a saltwater gargle.
Helps Allergy Symptoms
Salt water can reduce the effects of allergy symptoms like coughing and nasal congestion. It flushes out allergens from the throat, and that provides relief.
Prevents Upper Respiratory Infections
An American Journal of Preventive Medicine study showed those gargling with salt water three times a week were at less risk for upper respiratory infections like colds and flu.
What Is So Great About Salt?
Salt is a natural healing agent because it has antibacterial properties that fight bacteria. It can stop bacteria from growing, preventing issues like gum disease or infections. It can also help in preventing tooth decay and heal mouth sores.
Salt has always been a preservative because of its properties. Just as it preserves food, a saltwater gargle can help protect teeth when used regularly in a saltwater gargle.
How to Make a Saltwater Gargle for a Sore Throat
The formula for a saltwater gargle is 1/2 teaspoon of salt to 8 ounces, or one cup, of warm water. Thoroughly mix the salt in the water and then take a bit into the mouth. Tilt your head back and gargle for up to 15 seconds. Spit out out.
You will need to repeat this several times with your remaining water. You can do this up to three times a day until you get some sore throat relief. It should offer some immediate pain relief.
Does the Type of Salt Matter?
It doesn’t matter what type of salt you use. Many people like Himalayan salt because they believe it’s healthier, but plain table salt works just as well in a gargle. Pink and white salt have the same components that protect the throat from water and bacteria and offer soothing relief.
Salts don’t have special properties that are medicinally better than other salts. Cheaper salt is fine to use compared to a more expensive version.
The Risks of Using a Saltwater Gargle
Saltwater gargles are a low-risk way to ease a sore throat. Saltwater is a safe gargle to use up to three times a week to add to your oral health care routine. Using it more than that can harm tooth enamel. Those doing a gargle need to be reminded not to swallow it. Salt can raise blood pressure when ingested, and that is unhealthy.
Saltwater gargles shouldn’t be used by those with swallowing problems or small children because they may choke.
Make sure to use slightly warm water. It should never be hot.
Those considering using saltwater gargles regularly should understand this isn’t a good substitute for fluoride antibacterial mouth rinses. Those are also beneficial in killing bacteria. Saltwater gargles can help specific issues, such as providing relief for those dealing with mouth sores and inflamed gums and reducing overall infections.
Be sure to talk to your dentist about using a saltwater gargle. They can provide more insight.
