BBC Morning Live’s in-house doctor, Dr. Oscar Duke, shared a cost-effective kitchen essential that could assist in combating symptoms of covid, colds, and flu. His suggested remedy offers a budget-friendly alternative to expensive over-the-counter medications.
As October arrives, viruses tend to spread rapidly due to increased indoor activities in humid environments, providing ideal conditions for germs to flourish. Aside from the typical cold and flu viruses, the latest strains of covid making the rounds this month are known as Stratus (XFG) and Nimbus (NB.1.8.1).
While some symptoms of the Stratus variant overlap with other strains, two distinct indicators are a hoarse or raspy voice and fatigue. On the other hand, Nimbus is characterized by a severely sore throat, often described as a “razor-blade sensation,” along with difficulty swallowing, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea and bloating. Reports suggest that Nimbus is highly contagious.
It is important to note that many symptoms of both strains mirror those of other variants and common colds, including coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion, fever, headache, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
Since a sore throat is a prevalent symptom of covid, including the latest strains, the common cold, and flu, a simple kitchen item can offer relief. Dr. Oscar Duke highlighted the effectiveness of using table salt mixed with water for instant relief. He emphasized that while there is no miracle cure for these viruses, symptom management is crucial as the virus runs its course.
Dr. Duke recommended a homemade saltwater solution made by combining three teaspoons of salt and one teaspoon of bicarbonate in a bowl of cooled boiled water. This mixture can be diluted in 250 ml of water and administered using a spray, dropper, or inhalation method to help dissolve mucus.
Table salt is readily available at most supermarkets for a nominal cost, with Aldi selling a 750g bottle for just 65p, equating to roughly 1p per 10 grams. Dr. Oscar advised using three teaspoons of salt, costing less than 2p in total.
Citing a recent study conducted in Edinburgh, Dr. Duke highlighted the benefits of saltwater drops in reducing symptom duration by approximately two days. Although the virus remains present, saltwater may aid in clearing mucus and alleviating discomfort.
Gargling with saltwater helps reduce throat swelling, clears mucus, and removes bacteria and irritants from the mouth and throat. Additionally, consuming honey, as recommended in national guidelines, can provide relief from cold symptoms. Chicken soup, a subject of extensive research, is believed to assist in clearing respiratory airways and is more effective when homemade.
Incorporating nourishing foods like chicken soup into the diet can be a beneficial approach to managing cold symptoms effectively.