Nasal irrigation: Using a neti pot

Using a neti pot offers daily relief from various sinus issues
(photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mookies/90547700)

Nasal irrigation via a neti pot has been a part of yoga practitioners' routines for thousands of years. While the ancient Ayurvedic practice of washing the nasal cavities provides sinus relief for millions of people around the world, the question remains whether or not the neti pot can be overused. As with just about everything in life, moderation is the best answer.

Recommended usage of a neti pot is once or twice daily, or on an as-needed basis for maintenance (e.g., two or three times per week). If suffering from a common cold, mild sinus issues or allergies, using a neti pot as many as four times per day is recommended.

Water source
Where the water comes from can make the difference between a pleasant and uncomfortable neti pot experience. If tap water comes from a clean, clear source (i.e., without added chlorine or other impurities), tap water is fine to use. However, many areas add chlorine into the water in order to kill bacterias, which is hard on body tissues. Boiled water that is cooled to body temperature or slightly warmer is sufficient, or distilled water can be used without fear of discomfort.

Water temperature
The water's temperature affects the comfort level of the user. If the water is too cold, memories of pool water up the nose can be off-putting. If the water is too warm or hot, the delicate tissues inside the nose will be, at the minimum, uncomfortable and possibly burned. Ensure that the temperature of the water is at body temperature or slightly warm.

Saline solution
Too much salt in the neti pot solution may impart a burning sensation in the nose. Conversely, too little salt in the water will also leave the nose feeling uncomfortable because water entering the nasal cavities should be similar in salt content to that of the body's natural fluids. Follow the directions that come with the neti pot and/or the saline packets for the optimum sodium-to-water ratio.

Packets of saline—and usually sodium bicarbonate (i.e., baking soda)—are available for purchase. These packets are handy and great for taking along on trips.

To save money, the packet contents can be duplicated at home: James T. Li, M.D. of the Mayo Clinic suggests adding 1/8 tsp. (non-iodized) table salt to 8 oz. distilled water  or boiled (and cooled) tap water. Mix the solution well to ensure that the salt has completely dissolved. If the salt solution leaves the nose feeling a little uncomfortable, try adding 14/ tsp. baking soda to the solution; baking soda acts as a buffer by adjusting the pH balance of the solution.

Some practitioners believe that 8 oz. of saline solution is good enough—for one nostril. They suggest using 16 oz. (with 1/4 tsp. salt) for each neti pot use. For example, 8 oz. of water should flow through the left nostril and 8 oz. should flow through the right nostril. There is no evidence stating that 16 oz. is too much; try 16 oz. and adjust accordingly.

Neti pot tip insertion
How far the tip of the neti pot is inserted into the nostril can alter how well the water flows through the nasal cavities. Pushing the tip of the pot too far into the nostril can force the tip against the inside of the nose, thereby blocking the flow of water. A gentle push is all that is needed to close off the nostril and create the vacuum needed to allow for proper water flow.

Blowing the nose
Blowing the nose after the last drops of the neti pot flow through the nasal cavities and into the sink is the last step in a successful neti pot process. However, many people blow their nose too forcefully. Blowing too hard actually forces the mucus back into the sinus cavities, which is counterproductive. Make sure to blow gently, one nostril at a time, after using a neti pot.

For more info: Does a Neti Pot Work Well for Colds & Sinuses?