Nasal congestion from a cold or allergies can make it difficult to breathe. While nasal decongestant sprays can help relieve congestion, long-term use of sprays can cause a rebound phenomenon that actually causes nasal passages to swell shut, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Using a neti pot to flush the sinuses provides drug-free relief of nasal stuffiness and congestion. The neti pot may also be helpful in removing allergens and dust from nasal passages.
Step 1
Mix non-iodized or kosher salt with 8 oz. of warm tap water, then place the mixture in the neti pot. The Himalayan Institute, an organization devoted to holistic health, suggests using 1/2 teaspoon of salt if the salt is coarse or 1/4 teaspoon if the salt is finely ground.
Step 2
Use a small spoon to stir the mixture in the neti pot. You can use the neti pot when the salt dissolves completely.
Step 3
Tilt your head, keeping the nostril you are treating facing the ceiling. To reduce clean-up and water spots, lean over a sink or bathtub while using the neti pot.
Step 4
Insert the neti pot spout into your nostril, then slowly pour the solution into the nostril. The solution will flow through the first nostril and exit through the second nostril.
Step 5
Gently blow your nose on a tissue to clear excess water or mucus from the nostrils.
Step 6
Refill the neti pot with fresh saltwater mixture and complete the nasal irrigation procedure on the other nostril. Use the neti pot several times throughout the day if you are experiencing sinus congestion.
Tips and Warnings
- Neti pots are available at drugstores and health food stores. HealingDaily.com recommends choosing one with a smoothly tapered conical tip on the spout to accommodate various nostril sizes.
- The Himalayan Institute cautions against using hot water in your neti pot because water that is too warm will irritate the lining of the nose. Water that is too cool is also not recommended because it may increase congestion.
Things You'll Need
- Neti pot
- Non-iodized or kosher salt
- Warm water
- Small spoon
- Tissue
- Bottled water
