by Laurie Boris

Created on: July 10, 2009   Last Updated: July 11, 2009

Imagine sleeping better, because you're not snuffling and dripping from a day's worth of inhaled pollen, pet dander, mold, or whatever it is that gives you sinus distress. Imagine relief from your chronic sinusitis. Imagine having fewer nasal and sinus symptoms during your allergy season. Imagine that you can do this without expensive prescriptions or dodgy over the counter drugs.

All you need is a Neti pot, some warm water, and a couple of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. And you'll have the recipe for an ancient remedy that flushes out your nasal passages, helping to ease congestion, promote sinus drainage and keep your mucous membranes moist and allergen-free. Here's how to use a Neti pot:

1. Find a style of Neti pot that works best for you and your budget.

You can buy a traditional ceramic pot (it looks like Aladdin's Lamp) at your local health food store or on-line, but these can be expensive. If you want to go with a less expensive plastic version, you can pick one up at any large pharmacy. SinuCleanse and Ayr make nice ones, and they include pre-measured packets of their saline mixture (which is really just salt and baking soda.)

2. Prepare your solution.

If you're using a plastic Neti pot, follow the package directions. Most include pre-measured packets of the salt/baking soda mixture. Make sure the water you use isn't too hot. This could feel very unpleasant in your nasal passages, and could even burn you. (These tissues are more delicate than your skin.) If you're using a traditional Neti pot, mix a cup of warm water with a half-teaspoon of salt and a pinch of baking soda. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are completely dissolved.

3. Flush your nasal passages.

Leaning over a sink, insert the nozzle into your left nostril until you have a firm seal. Bend your head forward and tilt your head toward the right. Then begin to pour the mixture into your left nostril. Do not inhale during this process or the mixture could go down your throat or your air passages. Keep pouring until the mixture comes out of your right nostril. Yes, it feels strange, but that's normal. When you've poured about half of the mixture into your left nostril, repeat the process by inserting the nozzle into your right nostril. (Note: if you can't bend your head forward and tilt at the same time, some manufacturers, like SinuCleanse or Ayr, make a vertical squeeze bottle. This only requires that you bend your head forward. Aim the nozzle toward the back of your head and squeeze until the mixture pours out of the opposite nostril. Repeat on the other side.) When you're done, gently blow your nose.

4. Keep your Neti pot clean.

Wash all parts with warm soapy water and let dry completely before you use it again. To help prevent the spread of germs, it's best not to let anyone else use your Neti pot.

It's a bit of work to use a Neti pot: to create the mixture from scratch, keep the pot clean, and remember to use it. But once you get into the habit, and feel the relief from flushing out the nasties, you won't mind at all. You may even look forward to your daily nasal "shower."

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