Drinking warm salt water relieves sore throats caused by colds and allergies. But there is much more! We all need a small amount of sodium or salt to maintain proper fluid function and electrolyte levels in the body. So, mixing salt in water and drinking it promotes hydration, electrolyte balance and digestion. Drinking salt water can also help you strengthen the immune system.
Salt water is good for overall health, says Dr Sumol Ratna, a general practitioner at the International Institute of Medical Sciences, Noida.
7 health benefits of hot salt water
1. Rehydration and electrolyte balance
Drinking water in any form helps you stay hydrated, but salt water also helps maintain the proper electrolyte balance. Dr Ratna says: “To function at its best, the human body requires a precise balance of electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. So when you consume salt water in moderation, it can help replenish those essential electrolytes lost during physical activity, in hot weather, or during illness. Your muscles, nerves and body systems will work more efficiently if you drink salt water.
2. Promotes Digestive Health
Consumed in moderation, salt water can help promote better digestion. A 2010 study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that salt water can make bowel movements easier. It can increase the secretion of digestive fluids, which will facilitate the breakdown of food in the stomach and improve the absorption of nutrients. Additionally, it helps keep the pH of the stomach regulated, which is necessary for the best possible digestion.
3. Detoxification
Drinking salt water may have detoxifying properties, which can help remove toxic compounds from your body via sweat. Additionally, salt water can activate the kidneys and liver, which helps the body eliminate waste. This can lead to improved overall health and well-being.

4. Good for the skin
Salt water can also improve the health of your skin. When applied topically, salt water can help exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin, reducing the symptoms of acne, psoriasis and eczema. But when you drink salt water, it can contribute to clearer, healthier skin by helping to balance the body’s pH levels, reducing inflammation and flushing out toxins.
Read also : Getting smooth skin is very easy when you wash your face with salt water
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5. Prevents respiratory problems
When our throat is a little irritated, our moms always suggest gargling with warm salt water and drinking it. According to an in vivo study, salt water blocks immunoglobulin E (IgE), histamine, and pro-inflammatory cytokine responses, which can also cause an allergic reaction. Dr. Ratna also says, “Salt water helps break down mucus, reduce inflammation, and reduce discomfort, which improves overall lung and respiratory function, making it a potential home remedy for the common cold.” , allergies and other respiratory illnesses.
6. Stimulates weight loss
Not directly, but drinking salt water in moderation can indirectly help with weight management. It can help cleanse your digestive system and eliminate toxins and waste, which can help maintain a healthy weight.

7. Stress reduction
The soothing and calming effects of salt water are well known. It helps promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. Dr Ratna explains: “Minerals in salt water, such as magnesium, have a calming effect on the nervous system, helping you feel more at ease and improving your mental wellbeing. »
Is warm salt water better than normal salt water?
Drinking salt water is generally good for your health. However, warm salt water is often recommended for its soothing and therapeutic effects. It can help with digestion, respiratory problems and stress reduction. It can be used as a home remedy to treat sore throats and irritations due to allergies or colds. Make sure the salt is completely dissolved before drinking to avoid any discomfort or irritation. Also, drink it in moderation.
Although consuming seawater has several health benefits, moderation is key. Drinking too much salt can lead to many health problems, such as high blood pressure and reduced kidney function.