Normal saline is a sterile mixture of salt and water. It is called normal because its salt concentration is similar to tears, blood, and other body fluids (0.9% saline). It is also called isotonic solution. Normal saline is soothing and unlike straight water, will not burn or sting when applied.
How to make normal saline solution at home 
Saline solution is easy to make at home. You will need:
- 1 clean glass bottle or jar with lid
- table salt
- pot with lid
- Put two cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt into the pot. Put the lid on.
- Boil for 15 minutes with the lid on (set a timer).
- Set the pan aside until cooled to a room temperature.
- Carefully pour the salt and water (normal saline) from the pan into the jar or bottle and put the lid on.
Normal saline solution: A few important points
- It is very important to use only fresh normal saline. Bacteria can grow in saline and cause infections
- Use a clean glass jar or bottle is that has been recently washed in a dishwasher with very hot soapy water
- Do not drink solution
- Throw away the solution if it grows cloudy or looks dirty
- Keep the saline in a bottle or a glass for a maximum of 24 hours. Throw away any unused solution, wash the container, and make a new solution.
Debbie is the founder of My Horse Supplies. She has had a lifelong love affair with horses. She currently runs an agistment centre, as well as caring for nearly 20 of her own horses.