Trend Setting

What is the neti pot?

It may look like a gravy boat, but you won’t see this during your Thanksgiving feast! The neti pot, a type of nasal irrigation system, is sweeping the nation. It was recently featured on the Oprah Winfrey show, and its popularity seemed to take off from there. So what is the big deal about this funny little pot and how do you use it?

The neti pot is a container used to rinse the nasal cavity. It can be used to treat colds, sinus problems and allergies. According to the Himalayan Institute, the neti pot naturally cleanses, refreshes and protects the nasal passages, one of our body’s first lines of defense against illness. It gently washes away excess mucous, bacteria, pollen, allergens and viruses from the sinuses.

This may seem like just a new health craze, but the neti pot has been around for many years. According to the article, Neti pot for sinus health, the practice of nasal cleansing—known as Neti—has been used in India for thousands of years.

A neti pot can be found at most health food stores and drug stores with prices ranging from $12-$30. Got a cold or pesky sinus pressure? Why not give neti pot a try?

Instructions for neti pot use:

1. Make sure your neti pot is clean. Rinse out the pot with water and dish detergent and clean thoroughly.
2. Prepare the saline solution with lukewarm water and fill the neti pot.
3. Tilt your head to the side.
4. Insert spout of neti pot gently into the raised nostril creating a seal between the neti pot and the nostril. If it drains out of your mouth, lower you forehead.
5. Raise the neti pot slowly to develop a steady flow of saline solution. through the upper nostril and out the lower.
6. During the process do not hold your breath. Breathe through your mouth.
7. When you’re done, exhale firmly several times to clear the nasal passages.
8. Reverse the tilt of your head and repeat the process on the other side.

Have you tried the neti pot? How did it work for you?