[xtypo_dropcap]G[/xtypo_dropcap]argling with salt water can actually help with a cough or cold, according to a new report this week, harking back to advice from old wives’ tales.
Gargling salt-infused water cannot actually cure the cold, but can sure help with the symptoms, according to Dr. Philip T Hagen, chief editor of the book “Mayo Clinic Book of Home Remedies,” the New York Times reported. The book will be released next month.
The saline solution can remove excess fluid from inflamed mucous membranes in the throat, thus reducing pain, according to Dr. Hagen. The gargling action also helps break down thick mucus and release irritating substances like allergens, fungi and bacteria from the throat, which can cause coughing.
A randomized study by the The American Journal of Preventive Medicine in 2005 documented 400 healthy people for 60 days during the cold and flu season. Some were told to gargle three times per day and, compared with the control group, they were almost 40 percent less likely to get an upper respiratory tract infection.
In a full glass of warm water, put a half-teaspoon of salt inside, the Mayo Clinic advises. After that, gargle the water for a few seconds and then spit it out.
Gargling salt-infused water cannot actually cure the cold, but can sure help with the symptoms, according to Dr. Philip T Hagen, chief editor of the book “Mayo Clinic Book of Home Remedies,” the New York Times reported. The book will be released next month.
The saline solution can remove excess fluid from inflamed mucous membranes in the throat, thus reducing pain, according to Dr. Hagen. The gargling action also helps break down thick mucus and release irritating substances like allergens, fungi and bacteria from the throat, which can cause coughing.
A randomized study by the The American Journal of Preventive Medicine in 2005 documented 400 healthy people for 60 days during the cold and flu season. Some were told to gargle three times per day and, compared with the control group, they were almost 40 percent less likely to get an upper respiratory tract infection.
In a full glass of warm water, put a half-teaspoon of salt inside, the Mayo Clinic advises. After that, gargle the water for a few seconds and then spit it out.
