Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Brine, or saltwater, has been traditionally used as a home remedy to alleviate cough and sore throat symptoms. The most common method is gargling with warm saltwater, which is believed to help soothe throat irritation and reduce mucus. The practice is widespread across various cultures and is often recommended in folk medicine and by some healthcare professionals as a simple, low-risk intervention for symptomatic relief of upper respiratory tract infections.

However, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of brine (saltwater gargling) specifically for cough relief is limited. Some small studies suggest that saltwater gargling may help reduce symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, possibly by drawing out fluids from inflamed tissues via osmosis and helping to clear irritants or pathogens from the throat. The effect is more pronounced in relieving sore throat than in directly suppressing cough. Major clinical guidelines sometimes mention saltwater gargling as an adjunctive therapy for symptomatic relief, but do not present it as a primary treatment for cough.

Overall, while the practice is rooted in tradition and carries anecdotal support, rigorous clinical data confirming a direct benefit for cough is lacking. Its use persists mainly due to its safety and ease of use rather than robust scientific validation. People with certain health conditions (e.g., hypertension) should use caution regarding salt intake.

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