As daily exposure to polluted environmental resources and toxic chemicals increases, so do complaints of nasal congestion and other respiratory illnesses---making sinus conditions a rapidly rising problem and one of the most popular reasons for visiting a doctor in the United States today. Neti, the simple practice of nasal cleansing that has been used by holistic health practitioners for thousands of years, offers a painless, inexpensive and effective treatment alternative to pharmaceuticals. Use of a neti pot has no known negative side effects but offers an abundance of healing benefits for a variety of health complaints.
Upper Respiratory Infections and Allergies
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), sinusitis--commonly known as a sinus infection--affects more than 30 million people and is the most common chronic disease in the United States. Because sinusitis and other upper respiratory infections (including the common and pervasive hay fever) are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics, the neti pot provides a safe, simple and powerful method of prevention and treatment. Regularly cleansing the delicate nasal passage and its finely tuned hairs and membranes of the foreign entities frequently inhaled--including dust, fragrances, pollen, air pollution and chemical residue--allows the nasal filters to operate efficiently and prevents toxins from becoming trapped in the sinus cavity or ingested into the body, thus preventing infection. The neti pot is also an effective remedy and prevention tool for allergies.
Sinus Headaches
According to Howard Levine, M.D., at the Mt. Sinai Nasal-Sinus Center in Cleveland, sinus infections are often accompanied by headaches as a result of swollen, irritated nasal turbinates that contract during the day and trap drainage in the sinus cavity, which creates pressure and causes pain in the face and head. This often-chronic condition can cause dangerous infections if not treated, and unfortunately, the nasal sprays often prescribed can only be used for a few days before their effectiveness wanes and they begin to aggravate congestion. However, the neti pot can be safely used daily to treat sinus headaches and their underlying causes, as well as prevent them from returning.
Stress
With time, the practice of using the neti pot itself becomes an important relaxation ritual. The gentle repetitions of pouring warm, soothing water through the sinus cavity not only rids nasal passages of stressful toxins but provides a relaxing physical sensation as well. Additionally, stress---according to Jerald Principato, M.D., an otolaryngologist in private practice in Bethesda, Maryland, and associate clinical professor of otolaryngology at George Washington University School of Medicine---is a principal cause of chronic nasal disease. Incorporating neti pot cleansing into a daily routine will help the nose maintain a healthy lining and temperature, thus helping prevent the nasal lining from over-producing mucus and causing irritation.
Toothache
According to the Mayo Clinic, infection or inflammation of the sinuses can cause a toothache, especially in the upper teeth closest to the sinuses. Consistent use of a neti pot may relieve chronic tooth pain that occurs in conjunction with upper respiratory symptoms.
"Wet" or "Dry" Nose
Regulating the temperature and humidity of incoming air is one of the nose's many functions, so when the nasal cavity is blocked by too many toxins to perform this function, the result can be an overly "wet" or "dry" nose. Those with "dry" noses tend to suffer constant nosebleeds and feel dehydrated and scratchy inside their nasal cavities. Those with "wet" noses often suffer perpetual stuffy or blocked nasal passages and/or constant runny noses. Regular use of a neti pot can help alleviate either condition by restoring the correct balance of temperature and humidity inside the nose.
