The next time you have a major sore throat or scratchy cough, try this old remedy that really works. Mix 1 tablespoon table salt with 2 cups hot water and gargle it. The hot water soothes the inflammation in your throat while the salt gets into any potentially infected areas and makes it tough for bacteria to grow there. Gargling gets the saltwater all the way into the back of your throat and ears, where infections usually take root. Do this at least 3 times every day, and you could see your symptoms improve without medication.
