Have you ever heard of a neti pot?
Becoming more and more popular around the world and in the US, this Ayurvedic traditional therapy dates back thousands of years. It is an excellent option for those not wanting to use western medication for issues like allergies and sinus problems. Over the counter medications can cause many unpleasant side effects, which is why using a neti pot is on the rise!
Your nasal passage hold a very important function – being the body’s first defense against irritants, allergens and even pollution. Using a neti pot helps flush mucus out and keeps your nasal passage healthy.
The neti pot is an affordable and quick solution to all your nasal issues, so why not give it a try?
A neti pot can be made from various materials, such as plastic or steel or even copper. It looks like a long spouted teapot.
Filling the pot with a saline solution, you poor it into your nostril, this is a form of nasal saline irrigation therapy. The solution flushes out mucus and toxins by flowing through your nasal passage, it then exists the opposite nostril. The process is repeated by pouring into your other nostril.
Many neti pots are available with pre-packaged saline solution, however you can easily make your own, just add a half teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water.
Every day we breathe in allergens, irritants and pollution, this can cause allergies and increased mucus production. Allowing your nasal passage to stay congested can increase the chance of infection.
When we use a neti pot to rinse out our nasal passages we can relieve symptoms, and if done early enough we can prevent horrible sinus infections and colds.
Using a neti pot will also help open your nasal passage while reducing inflammation of irritated mucus membranes in your nose.
What benefits does the natural nasal therapy offer?
Reduced snoring- Cleared nostrils resulting in improved breathing
- Reducing dryness in your nose
- Helping with sinus headaches
- Improved sense of taste and smell
- For Allergy relief
- Allowing deeper breathing
- Prevention of a cold
- Reducing the need for over the counter medications
The University of Wisconsin recently did a study on nasal irrigation for relief of symptoms. They looked at saline irrigation to seeing if it did in fact improved sinus issues, quality of life and whether or not it could decrease medication use in those with a history of sinusitis.
For 6 months, test subjects used a saline and baking soda solution for nasal irrigation. Not only did the results show a symptom decrease, but the subjects reported an increase in quality of life and a definite decrease in the need for harsh medications for those who suffer from chronic sinus problems.
Using a Neti Pot
Tilt your head back at about a 45 degree angle over a sink or bathtub, place the neti pot spout into your left nostril and only breathe through your mouth as you start to tip the pot very slightly, allowing the solution of saline to enter your nasal passage and then out the right nostril into the sink. If any of the solution runs into your throat just spit it out and blow your nose to ride it of any leftover solution and/or mucus. Repeat the process with your right nostril.
You can use this method daily while you are suffering with sinus problems and symptoms.
Remember to clean your hands before using your neti pot, you also want to use the cleanest and purist water you have available, filtered, and sterile or distilled. Don’t use iodized salt as it can cause stinging, also make sure your salt is dissolved before use.
Make sure you clean your neti pot well after each and ever use and then allow it to dry.
NB: Those with a history of nosebleeds should avoid nasal irrigation and a small percentage of people experience nasal irritation from the treatment.
The information in this article is not intended to replace the advice, treatment and recommendation of your doctor or healthcare provider. Before trying nasal irrigation always speak to your health care professional first.
by Jade Small