- The swelling of the throat that makes it difficult and painful to swallow is caused by an infection trapping water in the throat's moist tissues. Salt draws the water out and dries the membranes to relieve the swelling and pain.
- Salt is a great alternative remedy for sore throats because it is a natural disinfectant. It is powerful in combating infections. Its drying agents also help draw the infection out of moist tissues. Salt also helps to destroy the germs that cause infections.
- A salt water wash also improves circulation in the affected areas. Increased blood supply provides more oxygen and faster healing, and also brings antibodies to the area more quickly and efficiently.
- Routine gargling with salt water can also help prevent a sore throat from occurring in the first place by stopping infections before they can take hold. Gargling with a mix of ½ to 1 teaspoon salt to 1 cup warm water once a day will greatly reduce the chances of developing a painful sore throat caused by staph infections.
- While sea salt is often touted as a better alternative than table salt, according to Dr. Zeratsky on the Mayo Clinic website, it is virtually the same. Plain table salt will work just fine for a sore throat.
