Nasal cleansing has a history dating back thousands of years. Cleansing the nasal passage ways is performed to clear dirt and debris. Regular cleansing may relieve the sinuses of mucous accumulation that has built up in the ears, nose and throat. Some people choose to cleanse the nasal cavity several times a day, while others only rinse the passageways when they are sick with a cold or flu. A variety of methods are used to cleanse the nasal passageways.
Neti Pot
A neti pot can be used to pour lukewarm salt water through one nostril while tilting the head to the side. The fluid will cleans the nasal cavity and flow out of the opposite nostril. The pot looks very similar to a teapot, with a large body or base, and a spout. Using a neti pot should not be painful; however, the sensation of irrigating your sinuses may be slightly uncomfortable at first. Net Wellness, a health website, suggests using boiled or distilled water, and not tap water to avoid infection. Neti pots can be purchased at many pharmacies and health care stores, as well as online.
Shot Glass Method
When a neti pot is not available, a shot glass may also work. Again, use distilled or water that has been boiled. Allow the water to cool prior to use. Mix 2 cups of lukewarm water with 1 teaspoon noniodized salt or sea salt; add a pinch of baking soda. Wrap a towel around the neck and shoulder and lean over a sink. Pinch one nostril closed. Inhale the contents of the shot glass in one nostril. If the nostril is congested, inhale as much as possible and then blow the nose. Repeat on the opposite side.
Steam Inhalation
Use steam therapy to moisten and clear nasal passages. Boil water in a pot; add several drops of eucalyptus or lavender oil for aromatherapy. Place the pot on a table, and bend over the top of the pot. Place your head under a towel to keep steam focused. Slowly breathe steam in through the nose. Steam the face for about 10 minutes.
