I usually turn to natural remedies at home for cold and flu symptoms whenever possible. One of my go-to methods during cold and flu season is using a neti pot daily, which really makes a difference! This ancient technique for nasal cleansing is super helpful and provides natural relief from colds, allergies, dryness, and more.
Using a neti pot might sound strange at first, but it’s surprisingly refreshing! Here, we’ll dive into the benefits of neti pots and how to use them safely, even for kids.
Originating in ancient India as an Ayurvedic remedy for congestion, a neti pot resembles a small teapot and is designed to clear out sinuses. You fill it with a saltwater solution and gently pour the liquid through your nostrils to cleanse your nasal passages.
Don’t worry — it’s not as uncomfortable as it sounds. Once you try it, you might find yourself wanting to do it regularly. It’s like giving your sinuses a nice, refreshing rinse.
When used correctly, neti pots are a safe way to wash out the nasal passages. The key is to always use sterile water to avoid introducing any harmful germs.
Neti pots are excellent for easing sinus congestion. Research from 2016 showed that nasal irrigation can significantly reduce sinus symptoms, lessen headaches, decrease the need for over-the-counter meds, and even cut down on doctor visits.
They work by flushing out the sinuses with saltwater, much like a saline spray but far more thoroughly. Here are some perks of using a neti pot:
For me personally, using a neti pot really helps relieve congestion, especially when paired with an herbal facial steam.
Neti pots also do a great job of rinsing away allergens in your nose, potentially preventing future issues. During allergy season, I tend to use mine more often, along with other natural allergy treatments.
Basically, a neti pot uses gravity to flow salt water through your nasal passages. It’s pretty straightforward:
You can do nasal irrigation daily (bedtime is a good time). But if daily use dries out your nasal passages, scaling back to once a week might be better.
Though using a neti pot may seem odd, I promise it doesn’t hurt and is actually quite pleasant!
If your child is adventurous and gives it a try, they might even enjoy using a neti pot. It’s kind of neat to have water spraying out of your nose! I prefer a smaller neti pot designed for kids—it’s just the right size for their hands and nostrils.
For kids who are hesitant, you might need to ease them in. Show them how you use yours and explain how it helps you breathe easier. Consider starting with a gentle nasal wash specifically made for kids. This alternative works similarly but uses light pressure for a quicker process and may need frequent replacement.
After they’re comfortable with this step, you can introduce the neti pot.
If you’re new to neti pots, you might have questions. Here are some common ones:
Yes, it can be a bit messy, which is why it’s best to use a neti pot over the sink. But once you get used to it, any potential mess decreases significantly.
While using the neti pot, you can’t breathe through your nose, but you can still use your mouth to breathe.
Although issues are rare, it’s safer to always use sterile water in the neti pot. Also, make sure to thoroughly clean the neti pot and your hands after each use, and let it air dry completely.
Neti pots shouldn’t be shared since they are personal hygiene items. They aren’t costly, so each family member can easily have their own.
Neti pots are not suitable for infants. It’s best only to use them with children who are old enough to understand what the process involves and shouldn’t be forced if they’re apprehensive.
You can find neti pots at most pharmacies or drugstores, often they are made of plastic.
If a neti pot seems too daunting, a saline spray can offer many of the same benefits.
There isn’t really a downside to trying a neti pot if you’re dealing with congestion. There are no side effects when used correctly. I keep one handy throughout the year to help with seasonal congestion, colds, and anything else that makes me feel stuffy.
Before trying a neti pot, it’s always a good idea to discuss it with your doctor. Have you tried using a neti pot? What was it like for you?
