Gargle with Salt Water

Tried to avoid it, but to no avail. Some little virus or bacteria found its way inside of me and then kicked my ass, and left me wandering between my couch and bed for three days.  Most of it was in my respiratory system with accompanying throat pain, coughing and phlegm. The occasional headaches and muscle pains were just bonuses. 
     
The generic OTC cold and flu medication in my cupboard that expired six months ago can attest that I do not get sick often. Probably not the flu, but I will never know. Because like any good nurse I will try to avoid a doctor or urgent care visit, and self treat first. FYI, hermetically sealed expired medications still work fine. So I prescribed alternating acetaminophen, NSAIDS and Robitussin DM that seemed to keep things tolerable. 
 
However let’s be honest, the true secret weapon was gargling with warm salt water. Why does this always work so well on a throat that feels and probably looks like ground beef?

The holistic approach is still the best, because besides my salt water gargling, drinking hot tea with fresh lemon and honey was a good thing. Sympathy from others was appreciated, but not as much as a comforter on the couch, time and the occasional bowl of warm chicken soup with saltine crackers. Those things probably helped me as much as any over the counter medications. Chicken soup and saltine crackers no lack of sodium there.