A neti pot is a small hand-held pot that holds a solution of saltwater and other natural ingredients. The neti pot is made of either porcelain, ceramic or molded plastic and has a handle on one side, a spout on the opposite side and a filling area on the top. The pot is used to clean out nasal passages and help drain the sinus canals. According to Neti-Pot Info, the neti pot began as a cleansing ritual that included an ayurvedic technique called Jala-Neti that was first used in India to cleanse nasal passages and promote better breathing.
Sinus Relief
If you have had sinus problems such as reoccurring sinus infections and nasal inflammation, you may find relief from using a neti pot. When the sinuses are inflamed, cilia in the nasal passages and sinus cavities have difficulty moving mucous through, which leads to congestion and irritation. Treatment with a neti pot will stimulate the cilia to flush out mucous either through the nostrils or back down the throat. The neti pot is generally filled with a saline solution consisting of warm salt water---this helps loosen up mucous and promotes unrestricted air flow.
Debris Removal
The nostrils take in a considerable amount of debris throughout the day as we breathe in air from a variety of sources. Pollutants such as mold, dirt, pet dander and paint fumes can easily be inhaled through the nose and get stuck in the nostrils. Healing Daily reminds readers that their nasal passages can get overloaded with these foreign particles, making the cilia work harder and causing pressure and discomfort. Cleaning the nostrils using a neti pot solution will help to flush out debris and relieve pain and pressure.
Improve Allergies
Using the neti pot may also help you better cope with your allergies. During allergy season, the pollen in the air can end up in nasal passages. The histamines that the body releases to fight the invading pollen are what causes the uncomfortable symptoms, such as itching, runny nose and tearing eyes. If you are allergic to pet dander, dust or pollen you can use the neti pot to help flush out allergens before they enter into your lungs and bloodstream. The Mayo Clinic reports that regular use of a neti pot during allergy season may be more beneficial than just using it when you have a flare up.
