Neti Pots

What is a Neti Pot?

Neti pots have been used for thousands of years by practitioners of Ayurvedic medicine. Also known as nasal irrigation or lavage, Neti pots are used largely for infection and blockage in the nasal cavities due to congested mucus that manifests as allergies, head colds and sinus infections. Traditionally, Neti pots are used with warm water and non-iodized salt to help cleanse and open up the nasal passages. This safely, gently and effectively rinses small particles and debris from the sensitive mucosal lining of the sinuses. Salt is astrigent and helps dry up excessive mucus production.

At first glance, many people are intimidated by using Neti pots. One too many experiences getting water up their nose at the beach, and the thought of purposefully pouring water up there is a total turn off! Once they try it, though, they are sold. Here at The Herbalist, we have heard many success stories from customers with perpetually clogged noses breathing freely once again!

Neti pots look like little tea pots or "Aladdin's lamps". They usually have a round base that holds 8-10 ounces of liquid and a long tapered, rounded spout that should fit easily into the nostril. Some Neti pots have a handle, and some have a base that is easy to grip. Neti pots come in either ceramic or plastic. Many people like the plastic kind for traveling. Both kinds work equally well.

Using a Neti pot is easy, but can be tricky to get the hang of. Here are step-by-step instructions for use:

1. Fill the Neti pot with lukewarm water and 1/4-1/8 teaspoon of non-iodized salt. Allow salt to dissolve.

2. While standing over a sink, bend forward slightly and insert the Neti pot spout into one nostril (from the side, not the front) and gently tip your head to the opposite side. For example, if you have the Neti pot spout in your right nostril, tip your head to the left.

3. Relax, breathe through your mouth and allow half the water to flow through your sinuses and out the other nostril. The water will not go down your throat. If your sinuses are clogged, then the water will not flow out, but the contact with the salt water will help astringe and reduce the blockage. When you are done, gently blow your nose.

4. Repeat with the other nostril.

5. Thoroughly wash and dry your Neti pot before putting it away.

Here are some suggestions of other things to put in Neti pots besides salt:

Sinutone or Herbal Biotic: 5-10 drops per 8 ounces of water. These tinctures  can also be taken internally for allergies. They may burn if too much is used.

Yarrow tea: Cooled to room temperature, Yarrow is an astringent herb that is very effective at reducing swelling.

Baking soda: increases the mucus-thinning action of the rinsing solution, add 1/2 teaspoon in addition to salt.

Order a neti pot in either porcelain or plastic.