Nasal Irrigation

Nasal irrigation with a ceramic gravity-fed neti pot is a time-honored practice that gently flushes the nasal passages, helping to clear mucus, allergens, and irritants while hydrating the mucous membranes. This practice supports respiratory health, eases sinus congestion, and enhances the body’s natural defenses against infections.

Ceramic Neti Pot

Instructions:

Prepare the Solution: Mix ¼ to ½ teaspoon of non-iodized salt (e.g., a premixed solution, sea salt or pharmaceutical-grade saline salt) into warm, sterile or distilled water. Sometimes using a little hot water from a kettle here works best, then add room temp water to finish making the solution a comfortable body adjacent temp. Ensure the solution is body temperature to avoid irritation.
Fill the Neti Pot: Pour the saline solution into the neti pot, ensuring it is not too hot or too cold.
Position Yourself: Stand over a sink and tilt your head slightly to one side, keeping your forehead slightly level or lower than your chin.
Irrigate the Nasal Passages: Insert the spout of the neti pot gently into the upper nostril, creating a seal. Tip the pot so the solution flows into the nostril and out through the lower nostril. Breathe through your mouth during this process, and try to relax your face a bit to allow the water to flow.
Switch Sides: After completing one side, repeat the process on the other nostril.
Clear Excess Water: Gently blow your nose to expel remaining solution and mucus, keeping your mouth slightly open to avoid pressure on the ears.
Clean Your Neti Pot: Rinse the neti pot thoroughly with hot water and allow it to air dry to maintain cleanliness.

Cautions:

Always use sterile, distilled, or previously boiled water to avoid contamination.
Do not perform nasal irrigation if you have a completely blocked nasal passage or an active ear infection.
It is best to be performed after a hot shower or after being warmed via exercise, other movement or sauna. This way the nasal passages have been open/dilated making it easier for the water to pass through.
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience discomfort or persistent symptoms.

This practice is ideal for daily use during allergy season or at the onset of sinus discomfort to maintain clear and healthy airways or fight acute illness onset.