answersLogoWhite

0

There is a natural tendency for a substance to move from a region of high concentration to a region of low concentration (see osmosis). This means that even water moves from its region of abundance to its region of shortage. Since salt water is more concentrated (less water) than the contents in your mouth (including any germs in there), when you gargle with it, it tends to draw water out of bacterial cells (which have more water in them). All cells are over 70% water and require water to function effectively and hence survive. If the salt water is concentrated enough, it will kill most germs in the mouth and some from the throat.

User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

Does gargling salt water help alleviate a cough"?

Yes, gargling salt water can help alleviate a cough by soothing the throat and reducing inflammation.


Will gargling salt water kill infection?

Gargling salt water will not kill or get rid of an infection. It will reduce the symptoms and pain of the infection though and will most likely be recommended by your doctor.


Does salt take away tooth infections?

Gargling with salt water can slow the spread of mouth infections.


How can gargling salt water make my sore throat worse?

Gargling salt water can make a sore throat worse if the solution is too concentrated or if you gargle too frequently. This can irritate the throat lining and cause further inflammation, leading to increased discomfort. It is important to follow recommended guidelines for salt water gargling to avoid exacerbating the sore throat.


How much salt to put to make saline water for gargling?

One to two tea spoons of salt for one cup of water.


What not do with a canker sore?

Don't bite or play with it. Try gargling with salt water to get rid of it.


How do you swelling throat go down?

Try gargling salt water or go to your doctor


How do you help esophagus swollen down?

Try gargling salt water or go to your doctor.


What cures Sore throat?

Slippery Elm lozenges, also gargling with warm salt water.


Does gargling water help a sore throat?

It depends on what you are gargling and the cause for the sore throat. Most sore throats are a result of bacterial or viral infection, and gargling frequently with a salt water solution can be very beneficial.


What will help an earache if you don't have any medicine?

gargling warm salt water (this is what i learned from a friends garandmother)


What good benefits can you get from gargling aspirin?

Gargling with aspirin will stop a cold coming on if you get it in time and it will greatly ease the pain of the throat