I use salt water ,honey and some Jack Daniels for my gargling.
I have been gargling with salt water for years....lots of years. Also make my own solution of salt water for my sinus problems [especially during allergy season]. Use a weaker solution to sniff up your nose with cupped hands. Salt is cheap....my hands are free [no need for a neti pot]....just takes a little to get used to sniffing the salt water up your nose thing. But it works great to clear you up! Oh and if I feel really bad, I add a shot of brandy to the mix. lol