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Neti Pot Use: How To Help Sinus Infections Naturally

How To Use A Neti Pot (Without Getting Grossed Out)

Those who use a neti pot really love their neti pot. And those who don't, well, think they're pretty disgusting.

In case you aren't familiar with the term, a neti pot is a container that looks like a small teapot, only it's used to clean out your nose. Literally. An essential tool for the practice called "nasal irrigation," as shown in the video above, a neti pot uses a solution of water and saline to clear mucus and debris from nasal passages and help with a variety of ailments.

The actual process is quite simple, once you wrap your head around it. Pour distilled or previously boiled water that has cooled into the neti pot (for safety's sake, never use tap water), then mix in either the saline solution provided, or one teaspoon of salt for every two cups of water used. Shake the pot slightly to mix, then over a sink, lean your head forward and to the side. Insert the spout of the pot into one nostril and pour, allowing the liquid to come out the other nostril. Keep your mouth open to help ensure the solution doesn't go down your throat. When you're done, blow your nose softly, then repeat the process on the other nostril.

A slight warning: you will initially get the same feeling you have when you accidentally inhale water while swimming, but once you get used to using a neti pot, that stops. It's the saline solution, rather than the actual neti pot that soothes and cleans the nose, Dr. John DelGaudio, chief of rhinology and sinus surgery at Emory University School of Medicine explained to CNN. The neti pot simply allows for an easier way of getting the solution in.

For those who find the notion of releasing everything via their nostril completely vile, let us assure you, you aren't suddenly inundated with booger gushing out of your nose. Instead, it's more like a gentle stream of water with a slight hint of mucus. Once you blow your nose, however, you'll be amazed (and relieved) at how much comes out.

Of course, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention the fear factor. In 2012, two people in Louisiana died after using neti pots filled with water that contained an amoeba called Naegleria fowleri, as the New York Times reported. Though the FDA issued a warning concerning rinsing your sinuses, the real culprit was the water source, which is why you should always use distilled or boiled water in your neti pot.

Still willing to try it? Check out the many ways a neti pot can help clean out your body:

Sinus Problems

Neti Pot Use

Sinus Problems

Whether it's a one-time sinus infection or chronic sinusitis, using a neti pot with a saline solution can help thin out mucus and promote healing.

Safe For Pregnancy

There are many medications women can't take when they're pregnant, and these include cold medications. Having the option of nasal irrigation can help with colds, as well as general stuffiness if you're pregnant.

Congestion

The nose has a natural defense against bacteria and other infections, called cilia, which are tiny hairs that 'sweep' out harmful agents. But when mucus gets thick, they can't do their job — and that's where a neti pot comes in.

Snoring

Snoring has many causes, and one of those is congestion. So a bonus for those feeling better thanks to using a neti pot — a better sleep too!

Nose Bleeds

Dry noses are one of the unfortunate side effects of dry air in the home, but a regular nasal irrigation can help keep the membranes of the nose moist.

Taste And Smell Better

Funny how when you can't smell, you don't really feel like eating, isn't it? Clearing up your nose means food will suddenly become appealing again.

Allergies

Once the pollen gets going in the air, it goes up your nose too, making seasonal allergies even worse. Try using a neti pot to clean out your nose, and clean out the allergens too.

Stop Using Medication

Relying on drugs is never a great solution for illness, and when it comes to sinuses, decongestants can only be used for a limited time (if at all). You want to make sure you don't dry out your sinuses further with meds, so try out the neti pot to see how it works for you.

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