Neti Pots

a ceramic pot that looks like a cross between a small teapot
and Aladdin's magic lamp. Although nasal irrigation using the Neti pot has been
around for centuries, its use is on the rise in the U.S., thanks to a recent
appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show and a fair amount of news coverage. Neti
pot originally comes from the Ayurvedic/yoga
medical tradition.

Does the Neti Pot Really Work?

Ear, nose, and throat surgeons recommend nasal irrigation for their patients
who've undergone sinus surgery, to clear away crusting in the nasal passages.
Many patients with chronic sinus symptoms from bacterial infections, allergies , and environmental irritants also have begun to
regularly use the Neti pot or other nasal irrigation devices, claiming that
these devices alleviate congestion, facial pain and pressure, and reduce the
need for antibiotics and nasal sprays. Research backs up these claims, finding
that nasal irrigation can be an effective way to relieve sinus symptoms when
used along with standard sinus treatments.

The basic explanation of how the Neti pot works is that it thins mucus to
help flush it out of the nasal passages, according to David Rabago, MD,
assistant professor in the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and
Public Health and a leading researcher on nasal irrigation.

A more biological explanation has to do with tiny, hair-like structures
called cilia that line the inside of the nasal and sinus cavities. These cilia
wave back and forth to push mucus either to the back of the throat where it can
be swallowed, or to the nose to be blown out. "Chronic sinus problems cause
the cilia to beat in a slow and uncoordinated way," Rabago explains. Saline
solution can help increase the speed and improve coordination of the cilia so
that they may more effectively remove the bacteria, allergens, and other
irritants that cause sinus problems, he says.

How Do You Use the Neti Pot?

There aren't any official medical guidelines, but Neti pots usually come
with an insert that explains how to use them. You might also want to ask your
family doctor or an ear, nose, and throat specialist to talk you through the
process so you can get comfortable with the Neti pot before trying it on your
own.

Typically, to use the Neti pot you would mix about 16 ounces (1 pint) of
lukewarm water with 1 teaspoon of salt. (Some people add 1/2 teaspoon of baking
soda to buffer the solution and make it gentler on the nose, but there isn't
any real proof that this improves the experience.)

Once you've filled the Neti pot, tilt your head over the sink at about a
45-degree angle. Place the spout into your top nostril, and gently pour the
saline solution into that nostril.

The fluid will flow through your nasal cavity and into 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.

How Often do You Need to Use the Neti Pot?

In studies, people with very severe sinus symptoms found relief from using
the Neti pot or other nasal irrigation system daily. Three times a week was
often enough once symptoms subsided.

Is the Neti Pot Safe?

Research has found that the Neti pot is generally safe. About 10% of regular
users experience mild side effects, such as nasal irritation and stinging.
Nosebleeds can also occur, but they are rare. Reducing the amount of salt in
the solution, adjusting the frequency of Neti pot use, and changing the
temperature of the water appear to reduce side effects.

To prevent infection, it's important to properly care for your nasal
irrigation device. "People use these devices over and over again. They have
to be clean," says Jean Kim, MD, PhD, assistant professor in the Johns
Hopkins University School of Medicin. Either wash the device thoroughly by
hand, or put it in the dishwasher if it's dishwasher-safe. Follow by drying the
device completely after each use.

Where Can I Find a Neti Pot?

Neti pots are available over-the-counter at many drug stores, health food
stores, and online retailers. They cost between $10 and $20.

By
Reviewed by Louise Chang
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