Naturally Treating Allergies Part 1
By Meghan MacKinnon, ND
Naturopathic Doctor | Aurora, Markham
What Is A Neti Pot?
Neti pots and saline nasal irrigation systems have been used for centuries to help with nasal congestion and sinusitis associated with allergies or other complaints. Using a neti pot helps to clean out the sinuses by increasing the movement of the tiny hairs that we have throughout our nasal passages to help move things along. For people who suffer from chronic sinusitis, daily use of the neti pot can greatly reduce symptoms.
How Do You Use a Neti Pot?
1. Mix about 16 oz of lukewarm water with 1 tsp of salt and ¼ tsp of baking soda. Always use distilled, sterile or previously boiled water to prevent making things worse. Alternatively, your neti pot or irrigation device may come with a pre-packaged saline solution or your naturopathic doctor may also recommend that you add other substances such as probiotics to the water.
2. Fill the neti pot with the solution and tilt your head over the sink at a 45-90 degree angle. Place the sprout into your top nostil and pour the solution into that nostril.
3. The fluid will flow through your nasal cavity and out the other nostril. It may also run into your throat. If this occurs, just spit it out. Blow your nose to get rid of any remaining liquid, then refill the Neti pot and repeat the process on the other side. It’s important to rinse the irrigation device after each use and leave open to air dry.
Are There Any Dangers in Using A Neti Pot?
Speak with your naturopathic doctor prior to using a neti pot if you suffer from chronic nosebleeds or have a deviated septum. It is very important that you clean your neti pot according to the manufactures instructions and always use distilled water to prevent infection caused by contaminated water.
Sources: Nazario, Brunilda- WebMD Medical Reference, Help for Sinus Pain and Pressurehttp://www.webmd.com/allergies/sinus-pain-pressure-11/neti-pots
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