Flushing the sinuses is a traditional Ayurvedic method of treating sinusitis and maintaining clear and healthy sinus cavities. Most sinus flush methods use saline or salt water. Sauerkraut juice certainly is salty, but a sauerkraut juice flush is not going to clear your sinuses better than saline will. In fact, sauerkraut and other fermented foods can trigger the release of histamines in your body, which can cause or worsen a stuffy nose. If you are determined to flush your sinuses with sauerkraut juice, dilute it so you don't irritate your mucus membranes.
Step 1
Fill a clean neti pot two-thirds full with sterile saline. A neti pot looks like a tiny teapot or genie's lamp, with a spout on one side and a handle on the other.
Step 2
Add 1 tsp. each of sauerkraut juice and baking soda. The baking soda helps balance the acidic natures of the salt and sauerkraut juice, making them less irritating to your sinuses.
Step 3
Swirl the neti pot gently to mix the ingredients.
Step 4
Tilt your head sideways over the sink so that one ear faces the sink and the other faces the ceiling.
Step 5
Slowly pour half of the neti pot's contents into the nostril closest to the ceiling. The solution will run out the nostril closer to the sink. This may feel very odd the first time you do it, but that's normal.
Step 6
Blot away any excess solution once it has all drained out of your nostril. Tilt your head the other way.
Step 7
Pour the remaining solution into the nostril that is now closest to the ceiling and let it drain out the other nostril. Blot the excess.
Tips and Warnings
- Use your neti pot two to three times per day to clear clogged sinuses.
- Never put full-strength sauerkraut juice up your nose because it will irritate your sinuses.
Things You'll Need
- Neti pot
- Sterile saline solution
- Baking soda
- Towel or washcloth
Member Comments