A neti pot performs nasal irrigation, or nasal lavage, to eliminate excess mucus in the nasal and sinus cavities. Sinus infection, cold and allergy sufferers may find benefits when using the neti pot, advises MayoClinic.com. The solution washes out pollen, dust, pollutants and other irritants that build up in the sinus cavities. The clinic reports that regular users of a neti pot find the treatment more beneficial than over-the-counter medications. Irrigating the nasal passageways is a technique practiced for thousands of years, with origins in yoga and Ayurvedic medicine. Neti pots are available at most drugstores or pharmacies, and also online.
Step 1
Wash hands. Mix together 2 cups warm water with ¼ tsp. of non-iodized, kosher or sea salt, recommends MayoClinic.com. Stir the solution well until the salt dissolves.
Step 2
Add the solution into the neti pot. Place a towel over the shoulders and stand over a sink at a 45-degree angle. Ensure one nostril is facing upward and insert the nozzle of the neti pot a few centimeters.
Step 3
Pour the solution into the nasal cavity while keeping the mouth open to breathe. Relax; understand the procedure should not be painful, but may be slightly uncomfortable for beginners. Allow the solution to pour out the opposite nostril; be aware the solution may also exit through the mouth.
Step 4
Blow out any excess mucus into a tissue once the neti pot is empty. Refill the neti pot with additional solution. Perform the treatment on the opposite nostril and nasal cavity. Repeat as needed throughout the day.
Tips and Warnings
- According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, using a neti pot decreases antibiotic use as well as reoccurring sinus infections. Use a bulb syringe or even a small glass if a neti pot is unavailable. According to Nasopure.com, ancient yogis also rhythmically snorted saltwater during daily meditation, as well as using neti pots.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Non-iodized kosher or sea salt
- Measuring cup
- Teaspoon
- Neti pot
- Towel
- Tissue
