Neti Pot

Although several methods of nasal irrigation exist, one of the most popular is the Neti pot. Nasal irrigation, or nasal lavage is a personal hygiene practice in which the nasal cavity is washed to flush out mucus and debris from the nose and sinuses. The Neti Pot naturally cleanses, refreshes, and protects the nasal passages, one of our body’s first lines of defense against illness. Recommended today by doctors and pharmacists worldwide, the Neti Pot has been used for thousands of years in ayurvedic medicine to alleviate sinus and allergy problems.

To use the Neti pot or other nasal irrigation device you would mix about 480 ml (16 ounces / 1 pint) of lukewarm water (distilled, sterile, or previously boiled) with 1 teaspoon of salt. Some people add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to buffer the solution and make it gentler on the nose, but there isn't any real proof that this improves the experience. Premixed sinus rinse solutions are also a good choice. Be sure to use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water to make up the irrigation solution. Tap water is not safe for irrigating your nose.

Once you've filled the Neti pot, tilt your head over the sink at about a 45-degree angle. Place the spout into your top nostril, and gently pour the saline solution into that nostril. The fluid will flow through your nasal cavity and out the other nostril. It may also run into your throat. If this occurs, just spit it out. Blow your nose to get rid of any remaining liquid, then refill the Neti pot and repeat the process on the other side. It's important to rinse the irrigation device after each use and leave open to air dry.

Research has found that the Neti pot is generally safe. About 10% of regular users experience mild side effects, such as nasal irritation and stinging. Nosebleeds can also occur, but they are rare. Reducing the amount of salt in the solution, adjusting the frequency of Neti pot use, and changing the temperature of the water appear to reduce side effects.

To prevent infection, always use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water. Also, it's important to properly care for your nasal irrigation device. Either wash the device thoroughly by hand, or put it in the dishwasher if it's dishwasher-safe. Follow by drying the device completely after each use.

You can order Neti Pots and Sinus Rinse from the links below (Amazon.Com)

Ceramic Neti Pot

Plastic Neti Pot

NeilMed Sinus Rinse Premixed Refill Packets