Can Saltwater Drops Help Shorten Colds?

As we enter cooler weather, we know we’re going to see an uptick in cold and flu symptoms. Don’t be alarmed! Colds are a common occurrence in every family, especially when it comes to kids. However, a new study brings hope for a quick, natural remedy that could help shorten the duration of colds in children: saltwater nose drops.

Shorter Colds with Saltwater Drops

A recent study led by Dr. Steve Cunningham, a professor of pediatric respiratory medicine at the University of Edinburgh, found that saltwater nose drops could reduce cold symptoms in children by two days. On average, children using these drops experienced cold symptoms for six days, while those receiving usual care suffered for eight days. Not only did these kids recover faster, but they also needed fewer medications during their illness. This discovery is significant because children typically catch 10 to 12 colds each year, which can have a substantial impact on both the children and their families.

How the Study Was Conducted

The researchers recruited over 400 children, aged 6 years or younger, who were prone to catching colds. Half of the children received homemade saltwater nasal drops, while the other half received standard care without the drops. Parents were instructed to administer three drops per nostril, at least four times daily, using a solution made with sea salt.

The results were striking: children treated with saltwater drops not only got better faster, but they also spread fewer colds to other family members. In households using saltwater drops, only 46% of family members caught the cold, compared to 61% in the usual care group.

Parents overwhelmingly supported the treatment, with 82% saying the saltwater drops helped their child recover more quickly, and 81% indicating they would use the drops again in the future.

Why Saltwater Works

So, how exactly do saltwater drops work to reduce cold symptoms?

According to Dr. Cunningham, the magic lies in chloride, one of the components of salt. Chloride is used by the cells in the nose and airways to produce hypochlorous acid, a natural defense mechanism against viruses. By providing the body with extra chloride, the saltwater helps the cells produce more of this acid, which suppresses viral replication and reduces the duration of the cold.

How to Make Saltwater Drops

Making saltwater nose drops at home is simple and only requires a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s how you can make a saline solution for nasal drops:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 ml) of distilled or boiled water
• 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt (non-iodized)
• A pinch of baking soda (optional, to prevent stinging)

 

Instructions:

1. Boil the Water: If you’re using tap water, make sure to boil it first to ensure it’s sterile. Let it cool to lukewarm before use. If you have distilled or sterile water, you can skip this step.
2. Mix the Solution: In a clean container, combine the water, salt, and baking soda (if using). Stir until the salt is completely dissolved.
3. Store the Solution: Pour the solution into a sterile dropper bottle or a clean, airtight container. If using a container, you can use a clean dropper or syringe to administer the drops.
4. How to Use: Administer 2-3 drops per nostril, 3 to 4 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. For young children, ensure they are in a comfortable position (lying down with their head slightly tilted back) when applying the drops.

 

Tips for Safety:

• Always use clean, sterilized equipment when preparing and administering the drops.
• Make a fresh batch of saline solution every 24 hours to prevent contamination.
• If your child has a persistent cold or symptoms worsen, consult with a healthcare provider.

This DIY saline solution is gentle, safe, and effective in helping clear nasal passages and shorten the duration of colds. The next time your child catches a cold, consider reaching for a saltwater solution—it could make all the difference in their recovery.

 

For questions or any other concerns, Augusta Pediatrics can be reached at (706) 868-0389. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only.