Neti Pot

“Neti” is Sanskrit for “nasal cleaning,” and that is just what this saline solution-filled vessel does. Mucus or environmental pollutants like dust can build up in the nasal passage, resulting in congestion which often leads to sinus infections. Proper use of a Neti pot safely flushes out these irritants, thins mucus and can relieve congestion. It can also be used to moisten nasal passages exposed to dry indoor air and ultimately improve breathing.

History: The Neti Pot originated from India and has been practiced for centuries as a discipline of yoga. The ancient hatha masters like Yogi Gorakhnath taught their students a variety of neti practices, from sutra neti (nasal cleansing with a string) to jala neti techniques that flush water, milk, ghee, and other liquids through the nasal passages to prepare the body and mind for pranayama and meditation. Yoga International’s publisher, the Himalayan Institute, introduced the first mass market neti pot to the West in 1972 and its popularity has spread widely.

Benefits:

• Moisten nasal passages
• Removes pollen, dust, and other microorganisms
• Relieves congestion due to cold, flu, sinus infections, and allergies
• Reduces the symptoms of snoring
• It can help reduce middle ear infection and tinnitus
• Clearing the nasal passage improves the sense of smell and digestion

How to use:

Start by making the solution. It is important to use bottle water that has been distilled or sterilized. (Tap water is acceptable only if it has been boiled for several minutes then cooled until lukewarm.

1. Select the right nasal irrigation solution to use:

Isotonic (equal) – best for daily maintenance and regular use. Hypertonic (high salt)- great for rinsing away allergens and moisturizing the nasal cavities. Hypotonic (low salt) – better used when you have more mucus or runny nose. It will help draw fluid and mucus out due to the higher salt content.

2. Buy pre-made packets of salt/baking soda or make your own at home.

Homemade: Add 2-3 teaspoons of non-iodized salt (with no additives) and 1 teaspoon of baking soda to 1 quart of warm water, use only distilled water or boiled water.

3. Add solution to the Neti pot.
4. Tilt your head sideways over the sink
5. Place the spout of the Neti pot in the upper nostril
6. As you are breathing through your open mouth, gently pour the saltwater solution into your upper nostril. The liquid will drain into the sink through the lower nostril.
7. Repeat on the other side.

*Be sure to rinse the neti pot after each use with similarly distilled/sterile water and leave open to air-dry. References:

1. James T C Li, M.D. “Can a Neti Pot Relieve Your Cold and Sinus Symptoms?” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 7 Feb. 2020, mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/expert-answers/neti-pot/faq-20058305#:~:text=A%20neti%20pot%20is%20a%20container%20designed%20to,bottled%20water%20that%20has%20been%20distilled%20or%20sterilized.
2. “The Magic of Neti Pot.” Allergy Mix, 15 May 2018, allergymix.com/general-topics/the-magic-of-neti-pot/.
3. “Nasal Irrigation with a Neti Pot.” com, 27 Aug. 2020, mdhealthonline.com/nasal-irrigation-with-a-neti-pot/
4. Sexton, Shannon. “The History & Science of the Nasal Wash.” com, Yoga International, 20 May 2013, yogainternational.com/article/view/the-history-science-of-the-nasal-wash.