The neti pot is used for nasal irrigation. Your nasal passages are exposed to many small particles every day. These include dust, microorganisms, pollen, hair and insects. When these tiny particles enter your nasal passages, your immune system releases antibodies to counteract them. This process causes runny nose, post-nasal drip, itchy nose and excessive sneezing. Nasal irrigation involves flushing out your nasal passages with a mild salt solution to help clean the passageways and make your breathing easier. Using a neti pot is recommended to facilitate this process.
Step 1
Purchase a prepared saline solution or make your own. In a clean bowl, mix two cups of warm tap water with 1/2 tsp. of non-iodized salt, and add a pinch of baking soda to soften the effect of the salt. Stir the solution until it dissolves. If you choose to use a prepared saline solution, skip this step.
Step 2
Lean forward over a sink and turn your head sideways at about a 45-degree angle so that one nostril is pointing down at the sink. Insert the tip of the neti pot about half an inch into the nostril that is pointed upward. Open your mouth and slowly pour the saline solution into your nostril. Make sure to use your mouth to breath and not your nose.
Step 3
Spit out any saline solution that drips into your mouth. The saline solution will run through your nasal passages and pour out of your other nostril and your mouth. The solution is harmless, so don't worry if you swallow some.
Step 4
Remove the neti pot and blow your nose gently to remove any remaining solution in your nasal cavities. Repeat the steps for your other nostril. Discard any remaining saline solution, and clean the neti pot with dishwashing liquid and water.
Things You'll Need
- Neti pot
- Non-iodized salt
- Baking soda
References
- "The Neti Pot for Better Health"; Warren Jefferson; 2005
- "The Sinus Cure: 7 Simple Steps to Relieve Sinusitis and Other Ear, Nose, and Throat Conditions"; Debra Fulghum Bruce, Ph.D, and Murray Grossan, M.D.; 2007
