Using a Neti Pot

How does it work?

The Neti Pot is filled with tepid water, body temperature is best and non-iodised salt is added and dissolved to create a saline solution (approximately 1% salinity - roughly the same amount of salt found in the blood).
 
Over a sink, bathtub, or outdoors on the ground, the head is held with the forehead and chin at roughly the same level facing downward.
The spout of the Neti Pot is then placed in one nostril and then that same nostril is tilted upward and along with the neti pot to begin pouring the water into that nostril.
Breathing is continued through the mouth. The water flows down and out from the other (lower) nostril.
 
Approximately half of the solution is used for each side. If the water flows freely then it can be done in two passes, one for each side. If the water seems to be blocked, switching back and forth several times may be needed.

Once Jala Neti has been performed, you need to eliminate any remaining water from the nose. The techniques may vary but usually involve bending over and breathing quick breaths out the nose in quick repetition. It is important not to close off one nostril or squeeze the nose in any way as this may cause water to be forced into areas that do not dry easily and may cause infection such as in the ear canal. A tissue may be used but is just held lightly surrounding the nose.

Please view one of the videos on the right from You Tube, to see real people using neti pots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Using a Neti Pot doesn’t sound pleasant, what does it feel like?

It doesn’t sound pleasant but once you try it, you realise just how easy it is - and there should be no discomfort at all. Some people say that it is quite relaxing and enjoyable.

Won’t I suffocate or drown?

Not if you are doing it correctly. The water washes out the nasal cavity and drains out of the other nostril. You can therefore breathe normally through your mouth for the entire time.

How long does it take?

With practice (which may only be after a few sessions), it can take approximately 5 minutes to do both nostrils.

Are Neti Pots expensive?

No. For a stainless steel neti pot, the best type in our view, they cost about £15 (often including postage and packing). This is probably only 4 packets of your chosen decongestant - which won't last as long as a neti pot. In addition they either aren't working or you want a drug free regime and that is why you are exploring what neti pots can do.

Where can I buy a Neti Pot?

Please use the tab at the top of the page to find links to a range of suppliers.

What are the potential problems?

Although Neti Pots have a reported 84% success rates, a small minority of people do not get on with them, or find them beneficial.

Some people may have hardened blockages and these may be eliminated gradually over several attempts, but may be due to a deviated septum which will not be resolved through use of a Neti Pot.

If the water temperature is not correct, or the salinity is not right, some users may experience burning or irritation of the nasal lining. That is why it is important to test it by taking a sip first.

If a user feels sharp pains due to pressure on the sinuses, or for any other reason, they should stop immediately and consult a doctor.