As a result of increased exposure to polluted environmental resources and toxic chemicals, more and more people find themselves suffering from respiratory complications, including allergies, sinusitis and sinus headaches. Incorporating the neti pot into a daily cleansing routine is a safe, economical and effective way to help relieve these symptoms. While there are no known negative side effects associated with this several-thousand-year-old practice, there are considerations that will increase safety and comfort levels while using it.
Neti Pot Shape, Construction and Storage
It is imperative to start with a high-quality neti pot that best suits the needs of the user; not all pots are created equally. For the most comfortable and precise fit, choose a neti pot that has a smooth, tapered conical spout. This will minimize solution spillage by creating a seal in the nostril and facilitate support from nostril walls of varying sizes. The pot should also be large enough to hold at least 15 oz. of water, as a smaller pot will not be large enough to thoroughly cleanse the sinus cavities. Lastly, it is very important to choose a pot made of light, nontoxic, unbreakable material like stainless steel. Since incorporating the use of the neti pot into a daily cleansing ritual will likely require traveling with it, it is important not to use a fragile or overly heavy pot. In order to avoid contamination, always rinse the pot with fresh water before and after use, wash it only with chemical and irritant-free soap---never toxic solvents---before and after use, and store it upside down to prevent dust and insects from getting inside. Lastly, do not share a neti pot with others.
Irrigating Solution Content and Temperature
There are many commercial irrigating solutions available, but when making homemade solution, it is very important to use clean, pure water that is free of chemical pollutants. Tank water and town water---depending on their origins---sometimes have a chemical content high enough to cause an unpleasant tingling or stinging in the nasal cavity. When in doubt, boil the water prior to use or use water from a purifier. It is also important to use the correct ratio of salt to water, thereby imitating the body's natural fluid content and preventing a stinging sensation. For the typical, healthy user, the correct recipe is one level teaspoon of salt per half liter of water. It is essential to ensure that the solution is lukewarm, rather than hot or cold, as these conditions may irritate the nasal cavity and cause contractions in the nasal passages.
Practice and Technique
It is important to relax and allow ample time to learn and adjust to using a neti pot. Rushing or holding fear and tension in the body during this practice can cause unnecessary headaches, water running onto the face or into the throat, coughing, or gagging. To treat a nasal blockage---that is, if irrigation solution does not flow from the outgoing nostril within 10 seconds of pouring it in---relax the nose and face, make sure the solution is not leaking out of the pot, make sure it is not being inhaled into the throat, make sure the water is not too cold, and check to see whether the pot is tilted at an appropriate angle for the water to flow down toward the nasal cavity.
Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds can occasionally occur while using a neti pot in those with high blood pressure; high stress levels; or overly sensitive, raw or irritated nasal passages. In the event of a nosebleed, stop using the neti pot and seek medical guidance before continuing.
