If you have a sore throat, a saltwater gargle may be one of the most effective home remedies for your symptoms.
Asore throat occurs when inflammation or irritation in the back of the throat causes discomfort, pain, and scratchiness. Many things can cause sore throats, including cold and flu viruses, allergies, and bacterial infections like strep throat.
Cancer and cancer treatments, including radiation and chemotherapy, can also cause a sore throat.
Some cases of sore throat may warrant medication, but you can often find relief at home. Here's what to know about using a saltwater gargle to help treat sore throat symptoms.
Gargling salt water is an effective home remedy for soothing a sore throat. It might even reduce the need for cold medicine and the risk of passing the illness to others in the house, though more research is needed to say for sure.
One small study found that gargling salt water within 48 hours of getting an upper respiratory tract infection, such as a cold, can potentially reduce the duration of illness by as much as two days. Again, more research is needed to confirm the findings.
Saltwater gargles can benefit more than a sore throat.
Dentists often recommend saltwater gargles and rinses after oral surgery. Researchers found saltwater rinses are as efficient as the standard antimicrobial rinses in reducing inflammation and promoting healing after minimally invasive dental surgeries.
Using a saltwater rinse or gargling with salt water may also soothe canker sores (small, painful ulcers in the mouth), helping them heal more quickly.
How To Make a Saltwater Gargle
It's important to use the appropriate ratio of salt and warm water. A simple recipe to follow at home is to mix half a teaspoon of salt into 1 cup of warm (not hot) water. Stir the salt until it dissolves.
If your sore throat is from chemotherapy or radiation, you can also add baking soda to a saltwater mixture. Try a solution of half a teaspoon of salt, half a teaspoon of baking soda, and 2 cups of warm water.
Gargling with salt water is a simple process:
- Take a small amount of the saltwater solution into your mouth and bring it to the back of your mouth and throat
- Tip your head back and gargle the solution for 10-15 seconds
- Tilt your head forward and spit the rinse into the sink
- Repeat the steps with the remaining salt water
- Repeat 2-3 times per day
Are There Risks?
For most people, gargling salt water is generally safe as long as your healthcare provider gives the go-ahead.
If you have hypertension (high blood pressure) or kidney disease, talk to a healthcare provider before gargling salt water. The excess salt could worsen your symptoms. People with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) should also avoid saltwater gargles due to the risk of choking.
A sore throat usually clears in about 5-7 days. If it lasts longer or you also have a fever, it's a good idea to contact a healthcare provider.
Consider scheduling an appointment if your lymph nodes are swollen or you have a rash with your sore throat. If your sore throat also comes with difficulty breathing, it's important to seek immediate medical attention.
A Quick Review
Healthcare providers often recommend a saltwater gargle to address sore throat symptoms. To gargle with salt water, add half a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water and then gargle.
For most people, it's safe to gargle 2-3 times a day, but talk to a provider first if you have trouble swallowing, high blood pressure, or kidney disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for salt water to cure a sore throat?
Your throat will likely start to feel better right after you begin gargling, but your illness will still need to run its course. A sore throat typically resolves in 7-10 days, often depending on factors like your age and underlying health conditions.
Can you put too much salt in a saltwater gargle?
It's best to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. The general recipe is half a teaspoon of salt mixed into 1 cup of warm water. Adding more salt could cause your mouth and throat to become too dry. You can also upset your electrolyte balance if you gargle with a high-salt rinse too often.
