Move your cheeks in and out, and your tongue back and forth, to swish the gargling liquid back and forth in your mouth. Some people enjoy warming the gargling liquid up a bit before gargling. While it probably won’t be pleasant if you’re using mouthwash, warm water and a little bit of salt feels nice in the back of the mouth.
This may take a bit of time to get used to, but when done correctly, the vibrations in the back of your mouth will cause the gargling liquid to move about, almost as if the liquid were boiling. Gargling will coat the back of the mouth with whatever liquid you choose, eliminating some bacteria and soothing a sore throat.
One study found that people who gargled a simple salt solution 3 times a day had a 40% decrease in upper respiratory tract infections. [1] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Not only does the saltwater gargle appear to ease cold symptoms, but it also keeps you healthier during cold and flu season. [2] X Research source Other studies point to evidence that saline solutions help fight against sore throats and congestion. [3] X Research source
Mouthwashes with alcohol tend to be more potent but carry the risk of several adverse side effects, including mouth ulcers, corroded fillings, and even the elevated threat of cancer. [4] X Trustworthy Source Go Ask Alice Medical advice site with content written by health promotion specialists affiliated with Columbia University Go to source Use them sparingly. You can also make your own mouthwash if you’d like. In fact, it’s quite easy. Here are some quick and refreshing recipes: Peppermint and tea tree mouthwash Angelica mouthwash A host of other simple mouthwashes
Studies show that a baking soda rinse can help balance the pH in your mouth and make it less friendly to acid-loving bacteria. [6] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source It’s also great for soothing the pain of canker sores and other mouth ulcers.
Chamomile tea is especially helpful for lubricating your throat if you’re hoarse. Other kinds of herbal teas, such as peppermint and raspberry, are also soothing when your throat is sore or inflamed.
