What exactly is gargling with saltwater supposed to do?

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I hear it recommended for sore throats everywhere, but all it does for me is make my throat hurt worse.
It also does nothing to decrease the duration of my sore throats or my colds/flus in general.
I just tried it again because I've had a sore throat full almost a month-and-a-half -- even after a full
course of antibiotics -- and, yet again, the supposed benefits of gargling with saltwater remain a mystery.

Any clues?

Typically, it soothes the throat and helps get any "slime coat" (that nasty goop that slimes down from your sinuses washed away. If it is hurting you, perhaps you have either the water too warm or too much salt in the water?

It think it is helpful when there is an infection in the throat. The infection causes swelling (and pain) and irritation. The saltwater helps remove the swelling via osmosis.

If gurgling with salt water is not helpful for your sore throat, try drinking some hot tea with a generous amount of honey added. The honey is a natural antibacterial and is very soothing to a sore throat.

Take care.