The Best Ayurvedic Herbs For Neti Kriya

Ayurveda is an ancient healing art form that originates in India. This traditional system of medicine focuses on wellness through integration of the mind, body and spirit. Neti kriya is an Ayurvedic technique using a neti pot, which is used to irrigate and clean the sinuses and nasal passages, according to "Yoga Journal." Using herbs in a neti pot can provide additional health and wellness benefits, although most of these benefits are not backed up by Western scientific research. Always consult your doctor before using herbal remedies.

Indian Holy Basil

Holy basil is a herb frequently used in neti kriya. According to Ayurvedic practitioner David Frawley in his book, "Neti: Healing Secrets of Yoga and Ayurveda," holy basil is one of the best herbs to use in the neti pot to provide benefits to your brain, nerves and heart. It is traditionally used to encourage devotion during meditation. When used in neti kriya, holy basil may potentially alleviate symptoms of colds, flus, sinus problems and allergies.

Ginger

Ginger is one of the most commonly used herbs in Ayurvedic medicine and neti kriya. Ginger is used in traditional herbal healing for a variety of health purposes, including alleviating symptoms of nausea and vomiting, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Frawley recommends using ginger in the neti pot to clear your sinuses, stimulate your senses and promote perceptive activity in your brain.

Brahmi

Brahmi is another popular herb in Ayurvedic healing. It has been used in Ayurveda to improve cognitive processes for thousands of years. According to author Blair Lewis in his book, "Happiness: The Real Medicine And How It Works," brahmi can help to improve your memory, promote clear thinking and possibly help to alleviate anxiety.

Scullcap

Scullcap is a member of the mint family that is used to treat sinus problems in Ayurvedic medicine. According to authors Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa and Michael Tierra in their book, "The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs: The Most Complete Guide to Natural Healing and Health with Traditional Ayurvedic Herbalism," scullcap can help to alleviate clogged sinuses and reduce sinus swelling and inflammation.

Sandalwood

Sandalwood has an aroma you may already be familiar with, as it is commonly used in aromatherapy, incense and bath and body products. In neti kriya, sandalwood has cooling effects that can help to calm frayed nerves and reduce fevers, according to Frawley.