What is a Neti Pot®?

Neti Pots® are a safe alternative to treat clogged sinuses and nasal congestion for people of all ages.

How it Works

In addition to last week’s recommendations on alternative treatments for cough and cold symptoms; our Rio pharmacist, Ryan, wanted to add an additional treatment for clogged sinuses and nasal congestion. Ryan is a big proponent of using Neti Pots®. Neti Pots® are ceramic pots that are shaped like miniature tea pots. A mixture of salt and warm water is placed in the pot. Using the spout on the Neti Pot®, the water is then dumped into one nostril before it moves through the nasal passage into the other nostril, where it drains out. That saline water rinse passes through the nasal cavities and rinses out excess mucous while it moisturizes the nasal passages.

 

 

<Photo courtesy of yogalifestyle.com>

I know, I know…it doesn’t sound appealing to me either – pouring salt water up your nose. However, Ryan assured me it isn’t as bad as it sounds.

“It sounds uncomfortable and it sounds disgusting, but actually it really isn’t either. It does not feel like water up your nose when you’re swimming, because the salt makes it what is called an isotonic solution; it has the same salinity as our bodies, so it doesn’t sting. I wouldn’t say it feels great, but I wouldn’t even say it feels uncomfortable.”

Neti Pots® vs. Sudafed®

Neti Pots® will often take place of pseudoephedrine – containing medicines, such as Sudafed®. In Ryan’s opinion, Neti Pots® are just as effective as Sudafed® when it is used twice a day when you are congested. It’s not a bad idea to use your Neti Pot® once a day when healthy, as a preventative to keep nasal passages open. Another benefit this treatment has over pseudoephedrine; anyone can use it, no matter the age.

Our Hometown pharmacies sell Neti Pots® and the associated salt packets; however, you can also use standard non-iodized table salt at the rate of ¼ teaspoon per cup of warm water.

Nasal congestion is no fun, with the use of Neti Pots®, you can ease your suffering and speed your recovery.

Have a safe and wonderful New Year from all of us at Hometown Pharmacy!