Colds and Sinuses

How to Use a Neti Pot

Although it has only been practiced in the Western world for approximately 30-40 years, using a neti pot for nasal irrigation is a traditional Indian allergy remedy. Allegedly traced back to Ayurvedic practices in India, this small pot, which is shaped like a teapot and often ceramic, is used to pour lukewarm water to which a small amount of salt has been added through one’s nasal passages.

Although it takes some getting used to at first, this nasal irrigation system is an allergy remedy that can be quite effective when used daily as an alternative to over-the-counter or prescription medications. Done properly, this allergy remedy flushes mucus, as well as allergens and irritants, out of your nasal passages. It can provide instant relief.

Many people report that it is effective at relieving most minor symptoms of hay fever. Some users report significant improvement on symptoms of the common cold as well, although it will not work if your sinuses are completely clogged.

To use a neti pot, you must first prepare the saline solution. You do not want the solution to be too warm or too salty, or it will feel unpleasant or possibly even make your symptoms worse. Remember, nasal passages are delicate membranes, and you don’t want to do anything to irritate them. A good rule of thumb is to use water that is no hotter than body temperature, or about 98 degrees. Feel the water temperature with your hand, and if it is just right, you should not be able to tell a perceptible difference between it and the temperature of your hand. Add about ¼ teaspoon of salt to 2 cups of water. You can use regular table salt if you like, although check that it does not include anti-caking agents, which could be irritating. Make sure you are leaning over a sink as the solution will need a place to flow after it circulates through your sinuses. Creating a seal between the spout and your nostril, tilt your head forward and slightly to the opposite side. Once you begin pouring, you want the saline solution to flow through your nasal passages and out the opposite nostril. As you pour, breathe slowly through your mouth. If your head is tilted too far back, water will trickle into your throat, which is unpleasant and not as effective.

This allergy remedy may not work for everyone, but it certainly has less side effects than many prescription alternatives.