Evidence supporting the use of: Sodium Bicarbonate
For the health condition: Sore Throat

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) has traditionally been used as a home remedy to help soothe sore throat symptoms. The typical method involves dissolving a small amount of sodium bicarbonate in warm water and using it as a gargle. The rationale is that sodium bicarbonate may help neutralize acids in the throat and oral cavity, potentially reducing irritation. Additionally, it is thought to have mild antiseptic properties, which could help limit bacterial growth.

However, scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate gargles for sore throat relief is limited. Most support comes from anecdotal reports and longstanding traditional use rather than controlled clinical studies. Some guidelines for supportive care in upper respiratory tract infections mention saline or saltwater gargles (sometimes with sodium bicarbonate included), but these recommendations are generally based on expert opinion rather than high-quality evidence.

Overall, while sodium bicarbonate is considered safe for most people when used as a gargle in low concentrations, its use for sore throat is primarily justified by tradition. Evidence from scientific studies remains sparse, and the effect is likely modest and symptomatic rather than curative.

More about Sodium Bicarbonate
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