This study demonstrates that using saltwater irrigation helps the body fight colds and viruses.
Saltwater Irrigation Helps the Body Protect It... - CLL Support
Saltwater Irrigation Helps the Body Protect Itself from the Common Cold and Viruses
I am always skeptical of articles like this, but it sounds like a legit study with an understandable mechanism of action. Viruses don’t like chlorine ions.
This one falls into the category of why not for me. What’s the harm in gargling with salt water and using a saline spray?
I will certainly give this a try with my next cold or virus. Might work and can’t hurt.
Hi Cajunjeff, that was my feeling as well. With all of the news and concerns about viruses, it was positive to hear about this seemingly legitimate and empowering approach.
Imagine my surprise to look more carefully at my Sterimar nose spray prescribed to me on the NHS by an expert Rhinologist (nose specialist) and realise that it is actually purified sea water (I knew it was saline). I am meant to rinse my nose twice a day using that and it does seem to help a bit. The whole gargling with salt water thing is also something that makes some sense too. A big part of it is probably around keeping the membranes moist (which keeping dining plenty helps with too)
This is yet another example of science doing trials on a home remedy that has been used for a couple of thousand years (or more).
The ancient yogis used it. Writings describe it in detail. From this we also get the Neti pot, which is like a tiny teapot used for holding salt water to irrigate nasal passages. Still in use today.
Gargling with salt water puts the treatment precisely where the bacteria are. Irrigating the nasal passages likewise. The rhinovirus begins its invasion in the climate of the nasal passages.
I don't use table salt which generally has added iodine. I'm not sure about the Iodine. Common sea salt does the job.
There are also medicinal teas that are easy to make that help turn a cold around in no time.
Home remedies have been tried and tested over the centuries in times before access to doctors was available and before the pharmaceutical companies became the powerful forces they are today. Although they still haven't nailed the common cold.
I know first hand that saltwater works on me anytime I get a scrap or open wounds its a miracle worker. I'll bet it works for other things like colds or viruses. I never thought of it.
It is my experience that saline spray can work to prevent a cold or allergy turning to sinus infection, if applied on a regular basis--I do use it AM and PM and often after having gone for my walk esp. in spring--and spring is early this year in the budding that is part of my allergies. Have begun also spraying after coming home from grocery or eating out---
Thus, my admonition: KEEP YOUR NOSE CLEAN!
Also, use a non-drowsy-making antihistamine!