Using a Neti Pot is Beneficial for Nasal Congestion and Other Respiratory Ailments

Using a neti pot is common practice in Southeast Asia and India. It originated in India and has been practiced in Ayurvedic medicine and among Yogi's for thousands of years. Neti means Jala Net in Sanskrit which translates to water cleansing. It is not only a ritual but promotes nasal and respiratory health.

The neti pot itself is small, usually genie shaped pot. The pots can be made from ceramic, metal or plastic. You can also use an ear bulb syringe or your hands as well, so no equipment is actually necessary. But it is easier to do with a pot. Neti pots usually cost between $10-$30 and can be found in most health food stores and are also usually available where yoga equipment is sold.

The neti pot works in a way that it irrigates the nasal passages. It is typically used with warm water with salt added. This can help with a wide variety of respiratory ailments. Such as chronic sinusitis, allergies and post nasal drip. It can also shorten the duration of a cold and promote prevention and maintenance of nasal health. Using a neti pot can also improve vision, taste, smell and promotes easier breathing. It has not yet been studied but it is also reported to help those with sleep apnea.

Many doctor's agree that the nasal passage is the 'doorway to disease'. Many in western society are discovering the wonders of the Neti pot and recommending it to their patients.

Salt

A salt solution is recommended in using a neti. This is called an isotonic salt solution and has the same salt content of blood and tears so it is ideal to use in the neti. Though just plain water can be used, it's more effective with salt.

Sea salt and kosher salt are proffered as table salt has added iodine and can irritate the nasal passages. You can also purchase commercially made solutions as well. With more advanced neti techniques oils can also be used, but it's is not recommended for a beginner. Baking soda can also be used in the place of salt or in conjunction with it.

The basic formula for the neti pot is 1 1/2 tsp. of salt per liter of water. You will want to use as close to body temperature water as possible. be sure to mix well and dilute the salts completely.

How to Use the Neti

To use the neti you will want to do so over your sink or bathtub. You will then tilt your head as horizontal as possible and pour the water through the top nostril with the neti, letting in flow through the bottom nostril and run into the sink or tub. This should be repeated on the opposite side. Eight ounces of water is standard per session, though you can do it more often if indicated. Blowing your nose afterwards is highly recommended. If your nasal passages are blocked you may have to repeat this process more than once initially.

Using the neti pot is usually done in the mornings, but it can also be done in the evenings too and is great for people who are in polluted environments during the day times. It can be used up to 4x a day in treating respiratory problems such as sinusitis.

Side Effects

There are generally little side effects caused by using the neti. Sometimes it can cause burning and irritation in the nasal passages if the water is not the correct temperature or the salinity of your salt solution is too high.

If you experience sharp pains in your sinuses or ears discontinue use and visit your doctor immediately. In cases of deviated septum it will likely prove ineffective.

Overall the neti pot can help promote nasal and respiratory health. It is a great practice to be used in prevention as well. With the rise of pollution and chemicals in our daily environments it is a useful tool.