Neti Pot

For years, every Fall I used to get postnasal drip from seasonal allergies that would develop into sinus infections and splitting headaches. I was miserable. My life changed when I was introduced to the neti pot. The neti pot is a small pot made from ceramic or a lightweight plastic. It holds a warm saline solution that pours into and flows in and out of the nostrils. The pot has a handle on the side with a small, narrow spout on the opposite side used to put into the nostril. It looks like a genie’s lamp. Neti pots are used primarily for nasal cleansing, rinsing or nasal irrigation. It also helps remove pollen, pollutants, and allergens, relieves dryness and basically cleans the snot out.

After only a week of using the neti pot I became its champion, telling everyone I knew. I even gifted a couple to my friends in need. I became the neti pot “guru” explaining why, how and when. The neti pot was the only thing I used or needed for my allergies during my pregnancy and while my son was breastfeeding.

If you have pressure around your sinuses or face, sinus headaches, allergies, postnasal drip or just feel like you are coming down with a cold, I encourage you to try a neti pot. You can purchase one at most drug stores, supermarkets, co-ops or health food stores. Some come with a saline solution kit, but simple kosher salt and water works well. Some people suggest sea salt, but I found that sea salt crystals do not dissolve easily and you must be diligent to ensure that all the crystals dissolve, if not, the process could become uncomfortable and irritate your nasal cavity. Kosher salt dissolves easily in warm water.

How to use the Neti Pot:

Step 1                                                                                                                                     Mix ¼ tsp. of non-iodized or kosher salt with a cup of warm water in the neti pot until all the salt crystals have dissolved.  It is important that your water is safe from all pathogens. If you are unsure, boil it and let it cool until it is warm.

Step 2                                                                                                                                   Tilt your head over the sink, keeping the nostril you are treating pointing towards the upper corner of the wall across from you, tuck your chin in a little.

Step 3                                                                                                                              Gently, insert the neti pot spout into your nostril, and then allow the solution to gently flow into the nostril. The solution should flow through the first nostril and exit through the second nostril. If the solution goes down your throat, stop and tilt your head a little (chin in, nostril towards the top portion of the opposite wall), slowly adjust your head until all of the solution has flowed out your second nostril. If your nostril is very clogged, be patient, the solution will eventually trickle through and then eventually flow.

Step 4                                                                                                                                Once you have emptied the neti pot, bend over the sink and blow three times to clear excess water and mucus from nostrils. Wipe with tissue.

Step 5                                                                                                                              Repeat step 1 – 4 on other nostril

Step 6                                                                                                                              When both nostrils are done, bend over as if you are touching your toes and hang your head down for a minute or so to encourage all the liquid to flow out your nostrils, blow gently into a tissue.

All information is shared for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.