**Doctor Oscar Duke Reveals Common Kitchen Staple That Can Ease Cold and Flu Symptoms**

BBC Morning Live’s resident doctor, Oscar Duke, has shared a simple and effective kitchen cupboard item that could help soothe those pesky cold and flu symptoms — and you probably already have it at home.

Speaking with TV presenters Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton, Dr Duke revealed how everyday items from your kitchen can help you feel better without the need for expensive over-the-counter medications.

### The Power of Saltwater for Instant Relief

Hailing the humble table salt, Dr Duke explained that a simple mixture of salt and water can offer “instant relief” from cold symptoms. Table salt is cheap and widely available, with supermarkets like Tesco selling a bottle for as little as 45p, and Lidl and Aldi offering it for under £1.

He cautioned viewers that there’s no magic cure for the viruses responsible for the common cold. Instead, treatment focuses on easing discomfort while the illness runs its course.

> “Most treatments focus on easing discomfort as the virus runs its course,” Dr Duke said. “It is crucial to understand that current remedies do not eliminate the virus but may assist in symptom relief.”

However, he shared a handy tip: “Saltwater drops can reduce symptom duration by about two days.”

### How to Make Your Own Saltwater Solution

To prepare the remedy, mix three teaspoons of table salt and one teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda into a bowl of cooled boiled water. Then, combine one teaspoon of this mixture with 250ml (about one cup) of water. This homemade solution can provide soothing relief when used regularly.

### Scientific Backing for Saltwater Drops

Dr Duke referenced a recent study conducted in Edinburgh involving around 400 children, which found that saltwater drops could reduce the duration of cold symptoms by approximately two days. It’s important to note, however, that while the saltwater may help clear mucus and ease discomfort, the virus itself is likely still present in the body.

### Recognizing Cold Symptoms

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), cold symptoms typically develop slowly over two to three days and include:

– A blocked or runny nose
– Sneezing
– A sore throat
– A hoarse voice
– Coughing
– Feeling tired and unwell
– A high temperature
– Aching muscles
– Loss of taste and smell
– A feeling of pressure in the ears and face

### Additional Natural Remedies: Honey and Chicken Soup

Beyond saltwater rinses, Dr Duke recommends honey — a treatment supported by national guidelines for cold symptom relief. Research shows that taking honey before bedtime can ease symptoms. It can also be mixed into warm beverages such as tea.

The BBC doctor also highlighted chicken soup as a time-honored remedy backed by considerable research. Studies suggest that chicken soup may help clear mucus from the respiratory airways, with homemade versions believed to be more effective than store-bought varieties.

### Nourish to Heal

Eating nourishing and comforting foods like chicken soup can be one of the most beneficial approaches to managing cold symptoms naturally while supporting your body’s recovery.

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By using simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, you can ease the discomfort of colds and flu naturally, potentially shortening the duration of symptoms and sparing a trip to the pharmacy.
https://www.irishmirror.ie/lifestyle/health-expert-reveals-common-45c-35961403