In a recent revelation, a health expert has shared a simple, 15-second technique to alleviate a sore throat, all without needing a trip to the pharmacy.

Known for his informative presence on social media, Doctor Sooj offers health advice to his followers and suggests an easy method to complement the use of medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol.

He advises: “I’ve found that gargling with salt water can be incredibly effective. Simply take half a teaspoon of salt and dissolve it in some warm water—about half a glass should do. Gargle this mixture at the back of your throat for 10 to 15 seconds and then spit it out.”

He continues, “This process helps rinse away bacteria, viruses, and pus, which can significantly ease your sore throat discomfort.”

The NHS concurs with this advice, noting, “Sore throats are quite common and usually not a cause for concern. They typically resolve on their own within a week.”

In response to Doctor Sooj’s post, one user shared their experience: “I dealt with this for two months and tried three different antibiotics.”

“I feel better when taking antibiotics and once I’m off it I’m back to the same, also white blood cells are high, had enough.”

Another user contributed: “I been on antibiotics since October goes away comes back chest infection. All the time cough and headache and sore throat.”

A third user suggested: “Best thing I found is having two or three cloves on your mouth and keep them there until the go fully soft. Then lightly bite them and swallow all the juice.”

Someone else queried: “What about a constant cough I’ve had one for two weeks now, especially worse at night, waking both of us. The majority of my colleagues also have it.”

How to treat a sore throat

To help soothe a sore throat and shorten how long it lasts, you can:

• Gargle with warm, salty water (children should not try this)
• Drink plenty of water
• Eat cool or soft foods
• Avoid smoking or smoky places
• Suck ice cubes, ice lollies or hard sweets – but do not give young children anything small and hard to suck because of the risk of choking
• Rest

Sore throat symptoms:

If you have a sore throat you might have:

• A painful throat, especially when swallowing
• A dry, scratchy throat
• Redness in the back of your mouth
• Bad breath
• A mild cough
• Swollen neck glands

The symptoms are similar for children, but children can also get a high temperature and appear less active.