Let’s face it – pushing a small watering can up your nose isn’t the most attractive of gestures, but it might relieve of your allergy symptoms. Tracing back thousands of years, a neti pot continues to help keep your nasal passages clear.
Allergy season has made it’s way upon us, with our itchy, watery eyes, runny noses, congestion, and sneezing, the perfect combination to inconvenience our bodies. But regardless how foolish we may feel using the neti pot, it can be the answer to our “I can barely breathe” prayers.
Origins of the Neti Pot
The word “neti” is Sanskrit for “nasal cleansing,” used in Ayurvedic traditions, which harness a more natural approach to healing and wellness. Also known as a “nose bidet” (although I prefer neti pot, thanks), it essentially provides a way to pour warm water into your nose, which stimulates your sinuses and clears out mucus.
Do we really need it?
Generally, your sinuses are built to be able to clean themselves, and if not, we give it a little help by blowing our nose. But if you experience blockage or sinusitis, the neti pot is an option.
How to use it:
- Fill the neti pot with warm water and add in a quarter teaspoon of non-iodized salt. Stir until dissolved.
- Stand over a sink, and tilt your head to one side.
- Place the end of the spout of the neti pot into your top nostril.
- Be sure to breathe through your mouth.
- Tip it (like pouring tea) until the water flows slowly into your nostril and out the other.
- Let flow for about 20 seconds.
- Switch sides.
- Breathe.
Need a clearer visual? Check out all of the videos on YouTube.
Where to buy
You can buy the Himalayan Institute Neti Pot Starter Kit from Amazon.com
Neti Pot Starter Kit 
Do note, if you have certain nasal or sinus issues, first check with your physician, specialist and naturopath to see if the neti pot is right for you. For more information on the neti pot, explore Jala Neti, a website dedicated to the details.
Images courtesy of thefuntimesguide.com and awholelottastuff.com, green tea
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Discussion Take a look at what is being said about this article.
Peter Hutchens, on August 12th, 2009 says:
This is great, thanks. My allergies are so terrible right now so I was suggested this. So helpful, I am going to get one this week.
Nia, on August 12th, 2009 says:
Where would I get one?
lisa eco-lover, on August 12th, 2009 says:
i got mine at a grocery store
twiggy, on August 12th, 2009 says:
I love my netipot and wouldn’t be able to breathe without it
peter, on August 12th, 2009 says:
This is the cheapest allergy saver….
Laurie, on August 23rd, 2009 says:
It really is a great deal. Its non toxic, takes a few minutes, and really works wonders. We looked all over and decided to recommend people check out the Neti Pot that Oprah Winfrey recommended on her show. Its a great company.