Nasal Irrigation: The Natural Solution to Sinus Problems, Allergies, Colds, and More

The nose is one of the body's main filters. The thin layer of mucus that lines the nasal cavity is there to trap an array of airborne particles including dust, pollen and dirt. If those little invaders aren't nabbed, they travel through the nasal passages, to the throat and on down into the stomach.

The nasal membranes need to be in tip-top shape. If they get too thick and dry, or even too thin and runny, bacteria will find an environment to call home. Hence, we end up with a cold or even a sinus inflammation. Anyone who's had a sinus problem knows how annoying and uncomfortable they can be, as well as how stubborn they can be to get rid of, once and for all. It's much easier to practice some natural preventative medicine than it is to treat an existing inflammation.

Salt water has not only been widely used in folk medicine over the years, but for centuries it's been a popular remedy among practitioners of Eastern Medicine. Think about how a swim in the ocean clears out your sinuses. A wonderful product called the Neti Pot basically works on the same principles. It is a small, plastic or ceramic container that resembles the lamp from which a genie rises. It is no bigger than your hand, travels and stores easily, and works it's magic with ease. All you need is the pot itself and a bag of fine salt; both should be easily obtainable at your local health food store.

The process is clearly described in the written materials that come with the Neti Pot. It involves filling the pot with warm water and about 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. I usually use a clean finger to swish it around. Be sure the salt is dissolved before tilting your head, inserting the pot's tip into one nostril, and gently pouring the solution up through the nasal cavity, and into the sinuses where it rinses out bacteria, mucus, etc. It will then run out the other nostril. At that point, the pot gets refilled and the process is repeated through the other nostril. The whole thing takes less than three minutes once you get the hang of it the first time.

You can do it as often as you like. I try to do it every evening. If I feel sinus pressure starting to build, I do it then,too. It instantly relieves the pressure. It leaves me with a refreshing, clean feeling and helps me to breathe easily through my nose. As an allergy sufferer, I can attest to the difference it has made during the months I most suffer the annoying sneezing, running, and blowing side effects. I'd also recommend it after plane travel, exposure to smoke and soot, or even after house cleaning.

Using my Neti Pot has become as much of a routine for me as brushing my teeth. I do it at the same time and know that I'm doing something great, and natural, for the only body I'll ever get.