Sore throats and mouth sores are common conditions that most people experience. Saltwater gargles can be a cheap, safe, and effective way to ease pain and relieve symptoms from conditions that affect the mouth and throat. While pharmacies and other stores sell medicated mouthwashes and similar products, some people prefer saltwater gargles and other home remedies. In this article, we discuss what saltwater gargles are and what conditions they can help treat and prevent. We also cover how to make and use a saltwater gargle, as well as risks and considerations.

What is it? Share on Pinterest A saltwater gargle is a mixture of salt, water, and baking soda. A saltwater gargle is a home remedy for sore throats and other causes of mouth pain. Saltwater solutions are a simple mix of water and table salt and can be a cheap, safe, and effective alternative to medicated mouthwashes. Saltwater solutions are not well studied. A small study from 2010 of 45 children investigated the effectiveness of a saline saltwater gargle and a mouthwash containing alum. The researchers reported that children who used one of the saltwater gargles twice daily for 21 days had significantly reduced levels of mouth bacteria, compared with children who used a placebo. However, the saltwater gargle was not as effective at reducing bacteria as the alum mouthwash. Alum, which is potassium aluminum sulfate, is an active ingredient in some medicated mouthwashes. Doctors and dentists often recommend saltwater gargles to help alleviate mouth and throat pain.

Does salt water kill bacteria? Salt water may kill some, but does not kill all, mouth and throat bacteria. However, solutions of salt can help bring bacteria to the surface of the gums, teeth, and throat. Once the bacteria is brought to the surface, some of it washes away when a person spits the salt water out.

Recipe Saltwater gargles are easy and cheap to make. The ADA recommend adding half of a teaspoon (tsp) of salt to 8 ounces of warm water, then mixing until they are combined. An alternative recipe involves adding baking soda to the saltwater solution. For example, the ACS recommend combining the following to make a saltwater gargle: 1 qt water

1 tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

How to gargle effectively Share on Pinterest Gargling for as long as possible can help ensure that the mouthwash is effective. To use the saltwater gargle: Take as much of the solution into the mouth as is comfortable. Gargle the salt water around the back of the throat. Rinse around the mouth, teeth, and gums. Spit out the solution. A person should try to gargle the saltwater solution for as long as possible. Although the saltwater solution is generally safe to swallow, it is best to spit it out. For maximum effectiveness, a person should gargle with salt water once or twice a day. People recovering from dental procedures can use a saltwater solution to rinse their mouth. However, for the first few days, they should rinse very gently to prevent scabs from opening up, and follow the directions from their dental professional.

Risks and considerations Gargling with salt water is considered safe for both children and adults. However, people who have trouble gargling should not use a saltwater gargle. Some young children may also not be able gargle effectively. A pediatrician may be able to provide advice on when a child is ready to gargle. Saltwater gargles are safe to use several times a day if desired, and for most, there are no side effects. People with high blood pressure or those with other medical conditions who need to limit their sodium intake should speak with a doctor or dentist before gargling with salt water. People who do not like the taste of saltwater solutions can try adding honey or garlic to help improve the flavor.