Written By: IJCP Editorial Team

Published On: 23 Aug, 2024 12:32 PM | Updated On: 23 Aug, 2024 4:41 PM

Step-By-Step Guide To Proper Gargling: Role In Preventing Respiratory Tract Infections

• Gargling helps prevent and treat infections of the respiratory tract.¹
• It is a simple and cost-effective method to prevent upper respiratory infections and serves as an additional layer of protection against respiratory illnesses.^1,2
• Gargling with an antiseptic mouthwash like povidone iodine helps prevent the spread of throat viruses, unlike salt water, which hasn't been proven effective.³
• Gargling with Povidone iodine reduces the occurrences of influenza and the common cold.¹
• Povidone iodine mouthwash is effective against various bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.^1,2
• Povidone Iodine gargling is better than normal saline gargling, even after mild dental procedures, as it aids in the rapid healing of wounds and keeps infections at bay.⁴
• Povidone iodine oral care products are safe to use (even long-term).²
• Patients with thyroid dysfunction should use it under medical supervision.²

Here is a Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Gargling-

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Gargling Cup

Select a clean glass that ensures a hygienic method of using your gargling liquid.5

Step 2: Fill Your Gargling Cup

Pour 5 ml Betadine Gargle into your cup and dilute it with 5 ml of water.6

Step 3: Swish the Liquid in Your Mouth

Take a small sip of the liquid and gently swish it around inside your mouth; also, move your cheeks in and out to ensure the gargling liquid reaches all areas.5

Step 4: Tilt Your Head Back and Gargle

Tilt your head back slightly, and while keeping the liquid in your mouth, open your mouth to make an "ahhh" sound to ensure thorough coverage.5

Step 5: Spit Out the Gargling Liquid

After gargling for 10-15 seconds, expel the gargling liquid into the sink.⁶

Following this, continue with your regular oral hygiene routine by brushing your teeth or flossing for overall mouth cleanliness.⁵

Tips to remember:

It is recommended to Gargle 3 to 4 times a day with Betadine Gargle.

Avoid eating/drinking anything till 30 minutes after gargling.

Gargling, preferably with povidone-iodine, should be a part of your regular oral care routine to prevent and treat oral and respiratory tract infections proactively.

 Source-

1. Ahmad L. Impact of gargling on respiratory infections. All Life. 2021;14(1): 147-158. DOI: 10.1080/26895293.2021.1893834
2. Eggers M, Koburger-Janssen T, Eickmann M, Zorn J. In Vitro Bactericidal and Virucidal Efficacy of Povidone-Iodine Gargle/Mouthwash Against Respiratory and Oral Tract Pathogens. Infect Dis Ther. 2018 Jun;7(2):249-259. doi: 10.1007/s40121-018-0200-7. Epub 2018 Apr 9. PMID: 29633177; PMCID: PMC5986684.
3. Tiong V, Hassandarvish P, Bakar S. et al. The effectiveness of various gargle formulations and saltwater against SARS CoV 2. Nature. Scientific Reports. 2021;11:20502. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-99866-w
4. Amtha R, Kanagalingam L. Povidone-Iodine in Dental and Oral Health: A Narrative Review. Journal of International Oral Health. 2020;12(5):p 407-412. DOI: 10.4103/jioh.jioh_89_20 
5. Wiki How[Internet]. How to Gargle; updated on Mar 12, 2023; cited on Oct 16, 2023. Available from: https://www.wikihow.com/Gargle
6. aqvi SHS, Citardi MJ, Cattano D. et al. Povidone-iodine solution as SARS-CoV-2 prophylaxis for procedures of the upper aerodigestive tract a theoretical framework. J of Otolaryngol - Head & Neck Surg.2020; 49. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40463-020-00474-x