Although becoming popular, not everyone is familiar with the ways of using a neti pot. The following information will show how it is prepared and used.
Required Materials
Warm water
Neti Pot
Baking soda
Saline solution
1/4 tsp of salt (not iodized)
Instructions
Put the warm water in the neti pot. Mix in the saline solution. If you bought the solution, you can just add it in the mix. To make your own, mix 1/4 tsp of salt (not iodized) with a pinch of baking soda.
Mix this into the warm water. Hold the neti pot and stand over a sink. Hold the pot with your right hand. Put the hole in your right nostril.
To continue using a neti pot, move your head slowly to the left side. Lift the pot. The liquid will go to the right nostril. Eventually the solution will come out of your left nose. Hold the neti pot with your left hand.
Tilt your head in the opposite direction and repeat the process. When you’re finished, wash the pot with running water and soap. Clean the sink of any remaining saline solutions.
Using the Neti Pot Correctly
You can mix the saline solution in the pot or in a separate bowl. It’s up to you. To achieve the best results when using a neti pot, your head should be parallel to the ground.
Whether you start with the left or right nostril, always pour in the nose that is up (i.e., near the roof). Press the pot to the nostril so it is shut. You’ve got to wait for the sinus to get filled. If necessary, move a bit so you can feel more at ease.
Always keep your chin lower than your forehead. Not doing so will cause the liquid to spill into your mouth. When you’re done with the first nostril, blow your nose. Now you can orient your head the other way.
It’s vital you breathe from the mouth when flushing. People using a Neti pot sprinkle for about 15 seconds for each nostril. You can add or remove a few seconds, depending on your preferences.
Tips and Warnings
Only use warm water. Pouring hot water in your nostrils may cause burns. Even when your sinus condition improves, you should continue to use the pot regularly to keep it from coming back. A neti pot isn’t just for sinus; it can be used for dust or pollen allergies.
This process is messy so do it only on the sink or a basin. Make sure you have towels or tissues with you. Never share a neti pot with another individual. Keep in mind that this is a remedy for typical sinus cases.
If your case is severe or there’s water in your nose, consult a doctor. People with nosebleeds should never use this pot. Children shouldn’t use it unless they are supervised and trained by a qualified adult.
The initial resistance that people have when it comes to using a neti pot is removed when they see the results. If your nasal blockages are really irritating, you can give this a try.
