Saline Nasal Rinsing Shown to Shorten Cold Duration, Reduce Antibiotic Use
New research published in The Lancet indicates regular nasal irrigation with saline solution can significantly reduce the length of a cold and lessen reliance on antibiotics. The practice, rooted in Ayurvedic medicine dating back 5,000 years and utilized by physicians in Ancient Greece and Rome, gained modern prominence after being featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show in 2012 with Dr. Oz.
A large 2024 study involving over 11,000 participants demonstrated that rinsing the nose six times daily at the onset of symptoms shortened illness duration by approximately two days, with some smaller studies reporting reductions of up to four days.
Separate research on COVID-19 patients revealed that nasal irrigation every four hours reduced viral load by 8.9%, compared to a continued increase in viral load in those not using the method. Meta-analyses also confirm a 62% reduction in medication use for chronic conditions like allergic rhinitis with regular nasal washing, alongside benefits for chronic congestion, postnasal drip, and recurrent sinusitis.
The findings are notably relevant given the estimated 10 million needless antibiotic prescriptions written annually for colds – a practice experts acknowledge provides temporary relief only through the drugs’ anti-inflammatory side effects,an effect safely replicated with medications like ibuprofen or naproxen,and now,potentially,with saline nasal rinsing.
To effectively utilize nasal irrigation, experts recommend dissolving half a teaspoon of non-iodized salt in one glass (250 ml) of distilled or boiled (then cooled) water. A pinch of baking soda can minimize burning. While “saltier” mixtures aren’t more effective, some studies suggest natural seawater may offer additional benefits due to its mineral content. Rinsing multiple times daily, especially morning and evening, is advised, and can be combined with throat gargling. Starting treatment at the first sign of symptoms is crucial for optimal results.
Source: Newspaper Oxygen
