A neti pot is a small ceramic, glass, or plastic container designed to rinse the nasal cavity. Nasal irrigation is a personal hygiene practice used to flush out mucus and debris from the nose and sinuses. Yogis in India have been using a neti pot for centuries. You can use a neti pot to treat allergies and the common cold, but regular use helps to clear the nose for unobstructed breathing. In yoga (jala neti), it is considered a cleansing and purifying ritual to allow the breath to flow easily, therefore giving life to the practice. The Mayo Clinic’s website states “some neti pot enthusiasts say that regular use of a neti pot is more effective for nasal allergy and sinus symptoms than over-the-counter medications.”
The neti pot works by using gravity to flush saline through the nasal cavity. I use warm water combined with one spoonful of salt. (It's also fun to mix it up by adding essential oils to the salt, such as lavender or tea tree oil to create a nice fragrance). To use the neti pot, tilt your head so that one nostril is up, and lean forward over a sink. Pour the salt water in one nostril and wait until it flows out of the nostril (this might take a few seconds), while keeping the mouth open to breathe.
During a recent cold I didn’t take a single pill but instead neti-ed regulary. The relief of pressure I experienced afterwards was unbelievable– my ears, nose, and throat all instantly felt better. I strongly encourage anyone with allergy or general common cold problems to invest in a neti pot (you can find them now at Walgreens). I think a problem in America is the rising use of pills, both over the counter and prescription. This is an all natural remedy that truly treats the symptom– congestion. I can attest: the neti pot has changed my life!
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