Neti pots clear out a stuffy situation in two different ways. First, bathing the nasal passages in saline solution thins mucus, which often builds up in the nose when the body is fighting off sickness. Second, a nice rinse can clear out gunk like dust, pollen, allergens, and yep, excess mucus that gets stuck on the small hairs (aka cilia) that line the nasal passages
Cleaning out the nose with streams of salt water is a traditional practice in Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian healing system. According to the Ayurvedic tradition, flushing the nasal passages helps restore and maintain balance among the various energy patterns (or doshas) that affect the body throughout the day. It’s important to note that Ayurveda is mainly a spiritual and alternative therapy, and the treatments are not necessarily backed up by scientific research. Although neti pots have been around for a while (as in, several thousand years), the magic lamp-shaped nasal irrigation devices have become more popular as alternative therapies receive more media coverage.
These days, most neti-phytes fill the mini teapots with a dry saline solution mixed with sterile water to rinse out the schnoz
Using a neti pot can clean out areas that are hard reach by simply blowing the nose. Plus, they actually flush out all the gunk, residue, and mucus in the nose, which tissues definitely can’t do. Neti pots and saline solution mix are available over the counter at nearly all drug stores. People with compromised immune systems or chronic sinus problems should talk to a doctor before using a neti pot or other form of nasal irrigation. Also, anyone with questions about the treatment in general should call an MD to get more personalized advice on neti pot usage. Some studies have indicated that frequent nasal irrigation can actually increase the risk of getting a sinus infection.
The Buzz — Why Do People Care Now?
Maintaining good hygiene is essential when using a neti pot — being lax about water quality or cleaning the device between uses could cause a serious infection. In 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported two deaths in Louisiana caused by brain infections due to extremely rare water-borne bacteria that entered the body through use of nasal irrigation devices (fancy speak for a neti pot). The FDA strongly suggests using only sterile water or boiled (and cooled!) tap water and cleaning the neti pot thoroughly after every use. Also, as much as you may love your partner or child, don’t share netis to avoid spreading illness or bacteria. The FDA and doctors alike recommend a one-neti-per-person policy at all times.
The Verdict
So why hasn’t everyone scored some proboscis paraphernalia and started pouring? Many people shy away from neti pots because the idea of flushing water through the nose is truthfully a little scary. Frequent neti pot use can also strip away moisture from the nasal passages, leading to irritation or nosebleeds. And beware: Overusing the neti pot can actually make a sinus infection worse because it flushes out the naturally occuring bacteria, viruses, and fungi that live in the nasal passages and help the immune system ward off disease.
While the neti pot isn’t a cure-all for all sinus ailments, with correct usage and hygiene, it can be a good alternative therapy to check out. As with any substance going into the body, it’s important to take the correct safety precautions when using a neti pot. Make sure to talk to a doctor if you’re unfamiliar with the procedure or have any questions.
Have you ever used a neti pot? How was your experience? Tell us about it in the comments below or tweet the author @SophBreene.
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