Log Under Interesting Gadgets - The Neti Pot

If you are one of the few people who hasn't heard of the neti pot (also referred to as the salt lamp or nose bidet), it is an ingenious Indian device used to irrigate nasal passages. A "do it yourself" appliance, the neti pot can give you relief from cold or allergy discomfort without drugs.

The neti pot has a pour spout and handle, and is a little larger than a tea cup. It's a great solution if you want to avoid taking cold medication because of high blood pressure, or want to avoid developing a dependence on nasal spray.

There Are Things You Should Know Before you Buy a Neti Pot

Without being indelicate here, you use a neti pot to pour a small amount of saltwater solution into your nose to irrigate your nasal passages and remove impurities. The goal is to introduce the water into one nostril and tilt your head so the liquid will drain out of the other nostril. As the salt water makes its circuit, it loosens and removes particulates and mucus.

Neti Pots Spike in Popularity

Concentrations of mucus and foreign matter you inadvertently introduce into your system when you inhale, clog your sinus passages, causing headaches, making it harder to breathe, and creating a breeding ground for bacteria.

Sufferers of chronic nasal problems have traditionally used the nose dropper method of saltwater irrigation to find relief, but the neti pot is making the practice of nasal irrigation downright cool. Since its debut on the Oprah Show in 2007, the neti pot has become a popular alternative to over-the-counter nasal remedies. Once consigned to import and health food stores, neti pots are now sold almost everywhere, including a pharmacy near you. They're a pretty natural solution with few interaction or use problems.

Tips on How to Use a Neti Pot

If you're still interested, here are some tips on using this handy tool read on:

• Make sure you follow the package directions, including all cautions.
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• When making your salt solution, use sea salt and/or non-iodized salt.
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• Use distilled, sterilized, warm water (this is important)
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• Dissolve all salt thoroughly. Partially dissolved salt crystals can cut or score your delicate nasal tissues.
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• Go slowly at first. This is a new experience and feels a little strange. Don't rush it.
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• After flushing, be careful to lean forward to avoid swallowing water.
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• Don't let your distaste for the process make you lose sight of the benefits.

• After using, always wash the pot in warm soapy water and let it air dry

You can buy neti pot irrigation solutions at your local market or pharmacy, but it's just as easy and a lot less expensive to make your own. A good basic recipe is: 1/4 teaspoon of of baking soda and 1/4 of sea salt mixed with enough water to fill the pot for each application.