A neti pot is used to fight off flu and colds and to aid in maintaining nasal health. Neti, or nasal cleaning, is a common Ayurvedic practice. It is becoming increasingly popular among Westerners, many of whom are starting to practice jala neti, or water neti, using the neti pot. This may be because, with the problem of air pollution growing year by year, sinusitis and allergies are on the rise, according to "The Neti Pot for Better Health," by Warren Jefferson. Using a neti pot is effective, especially when people suffer only mild symptoms, reports the Baltimore Sun.
Step 1
Prepare your saline solution with kosher sea salt because it is pure with no pollutants, advises the Jala Neti Pot website. Mix a teaspoon of sea salt into one pint of warm purified water, advises Yoga Journal. Stir until the salt dissolves. Avoid hot or cold water.
Step 2
Fill your pot with the solution. Test the temperature on your wrist to ensure it's not too hot.
Step 3
Tilt your head to one side. Place the pot's spout into the upper nostril and create a seal, advises Neti-Pot.com. Tip the pot slowly to create a steady water flow that will go through the upper nostril and come out of the lower nostril. Breathe through your mouth.
Step 4
Exhale into a tissue to clear your nasal passages. Refill your pot, switch the tilt of your head and pour the solution into your other nostril. Do not close off either nostril when you blow your nose.
Step 5
Clean your pot with warm water and dish soap. Check the manufacturer's instructions if you prefer to use your dishwasher--some pots may only be washed by hand.
Things You'll Need
- Kosher sea salt
- Purified water
- Neti pot
