Why Not Try a Neti Pot?

By Heather McCauley

In the United States, sinus related illnesses are the number one reason we visit our doctors. Many healthcare professionals agree that the nose and sinuses are our first line of defense against a multitude of illnesses. Otolaryngology or ENT (ear, nose and throat) is the oldest recorded medical specialty in the United States (entnet.org). Although early medicine recognized the importance of the nose on our health, current studies show that there is a safe and natural alternative to taking a regimen of antibiotics for a sinus infection.

Nasal irrigation, lavage, or Neti is beneficial when nasal passages become inflamed, irritated or blocked. With exposure to chemicals, fragrances and environmental factors such as pollen, our nasal passages can sometimes operate on overload. It then becomes difficult for them to filter out bacteria and viruses – and also to maintain optimum mucus levels and consistency (gross, yes – but we need a certain amount of mucus to keep our nasal passages moisturized). With regular nasal irrigation, a body can experience immediate relief of sinusitis, sinus headaches, nasal congestion, asthma attacks, allergies, some types of insomnia and reduce the effects of MCS (multiple chemical sensitivities). By cleansing the nasal passages regularly, we don’t allow bacteria and viruses to accumulate, thereby keeping us healthy.

Nasal cleansing is for everyone! I have been using a Neti pot for a couple of years and I have turned several of my friends into fans of using one. This is one of the easiest and most precise methods of nasal irrigation. You can find a Neti pot in most drug stores with the sinus remedies. With the necessary saline solution included, a plastic one will cost between $7.00 and $15.00. They are also available in ceramic, copper and other materials in specialty stores or online. Take care to follow the directions that come with your Neti pot, as using water that is too cold or too hot can be painful (it may be helpful to watch a video or reference online instructions on using a Neti pot). The first time can be weird; and the instructions may not warn you about the nasal drainage that can occur – sometimes several hours later. But – that is part of the cleansing process! If you use a Neti pot for the first time and you aren’t immediately hooked, give it another couple of tries. I guarantee you will want to shout from the rooftops, “I love my Neti pot” – or at least wear it on a T-shirt.

**Image is courtesy of http://www.susansmithjones.com/Neti.HTM