Sea Salt Gargle for Sore Throat Relief: Benefits & Instructions

Sea salt is salt obtained by the evaporation of seawater. Common uses for sea salt include cooking, cosmetics and health care. Sea salt, when mixed with water, can be gargled to relieve a sore throat. This works because the salt content in the water is higher than that of your cells. According to the editors of Prevention Health Books, authors of "Doctor's Book of Home Remedies," the higher saline content helps draw out the inflammation of the tissue, providing temporary pain relief. The method for gargling sea salt takes only a minute and a few simple supplies.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Glass

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Stir 1 teaspoon of sea salt into an 8 ounce glass of water for one minute.

• 2

  Take a sip of the salt water without swallowing, filling your mouth halfway with the salt water.

• 3

  Tilt your head back and gargle with the salt water for five to 10 seconds before spitting it out into a sink.

• 4

  Repeat the gargling process once more to ensure you have relieved as much swelling from the throat and mouth as possible.

• 5

  Store the unused salt mixture in a sealed container in the refrigerator for later use. Stir the mixture before using to ensure the salt and water are thoroughly combined.