Guide To Using A Neti Pot Correctly

A neti pot is a small teapot-shaped medical device used to wash mucus and other debris from an individual's sinuses and nasal cavities. The neti pot first originated in the ancient medical system of India commonly referred to as Ayurveda and is described as nasal irrigation. Western medicine adopted the use of the neti pot in the early 1900s. A neti pot is a non-invasive, medication-free, and inexpensive means of treating nasal symptoms in an affected individual. 

Neti pots are generally made out of materials such as ceramic, copper, stainless steel, or plastic. Most neti pots resemble the shape of a traditional teapot with a large, round body and long spout. Neti pots can be found in health food stores, online stores, and drug stores.

Why They're Used

Individuals may use a neti pot for many different benefits it can provide when they are affected by certain conditions or symptoms. When an individual inhales pollution, allergens, and other irritating materials, their production of mucus in their nasal channels and sinuses can increase. This increased production of mucus sets a favorable precedent for further congestion and the development of an infection. When an individual uses a neti pot to rinse these irritants from the nasal channels before these processes can occur, they effectively avoid the symptoms associated with common colds, sinus infections, and other illnesses. 

A neti pot can help clear a patient's nostrils if they are having trouble breathing, reduce snoring, ease sinus headaches, reduce the need for decongestants and antibiotics, relieve facial pain, ease sinus pressure, reduce nasal dryness, and relieve allergy symptoms. Neti pots are used the most by patients affected by chronic rhinosinusitis, repeated viral upper respiratory infections, and seasonal allergic rhinitis.