How to Use a Neti Pot for Asthma and Allergy Relief
If you are familiar with the world of alternative and complementary medicine, you may have heard of a neti pot. A neti pot originates from the ancient Indian healing system called Ayurveda.1 It is one of the oldest forms of cleansing the nasal passages with warm saltwater.
Today, this process is also referred to as nasal rinse or hypertonic saline nasal irrigation. Yogis have been using neti pots to cleanse their bodies for thousands of years. More recently, studies show that using a neti pot for asthma and allergies may provide significant relief from symptoms. A neti pot may clear mucus and allergens and help with related conditions.2
What exactly is a neti pot?
A neti pot is a small teapot with a long spout. I have used my standard teapot as a neti pot before; although the spout felt slightly too large for my nostrils, it still worked.
Neti pots are typically ceramic, but some are plastic or glass. You can purchase one from your local health food store or at a pharmacy such as CVS. There are also many options if you are looking to buy a neti pot online!
I have used only a neti pot, but there are other methods for nasal rinsing, such as bulb syringes, spray bottles, and battery-powered systems.3
How a neti pot can help with asthma symptoms
In my research, I found evidence that a neti pot helps with comorbidities of asthma, such as allergies, allergic rhinitis, and rhinosinusitis.2 Using a neti pot for asthma may help clear the sinuses, prevent the spread of sinus infection, and moisten the mucous membranes.4
I read a study that tested the benefits of nasal irrigation for certain conditions; 7 of the participants had asthma. One participant shared, "Whereas I use the Flovent after the first couple of weeks, I was also using it [nasal irrigation] as needed, and I use it twice a day now. That may be making some difference. I noticed the neti pot helps with the breathing."2
The same study concluded that patients with frequent sinus symptoms may experience improvements in asthma or polyposis by using this type of nasal rinse. While these results are promising, more studies are needed to confirm the full benefits of a neti pot for asthma.2
How a nasal rinse helps allergies
If you have allergic asthma, there is evidence showing the benefits of nasal irrigation. A neti pot cleans the nasal passages, thereby helping thin mucus and clear buildup.
Certain environmental triggers, such as pollen or dander, can become trapped in nasal mucus. Clearing the mucus out could help you find long-awaited sinus relief. If you are someone who showers and changes clothes on a high-pollen-count day, you might also want to consider cleaning your nose.
How to use a neti pot
To use a neti pot, you will need distilled water and salt without additives. Table salt typically contains added anticaking agents; therefore, avoid using it.
Additionally, some instructions specify baking soda, but it is optional. Pre-mixed saline packets can be purchased online or at the same store where you buy your neti pot. The University of Michigan has excellent instructions on how to use a neti pot correctly.4
Warnings regarding nasal irrigation
When using a neti pot for asthma or allergies, it is VERY important to use distilled water. A small organism found in some freshwater environments, Naegleria fowleri, can cause a serious brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).3
There have been cases in which individuals did not use distilled water, and this organism traveled via the nose to the brain. To stay safe, always use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water.3
Talk to your doctor before using a neti pot
Most importantly, before trying something new for your asthma or allergies, consult with your doctor! Discuss how often to perform a nasal rinse, as using a neti pot too frequently can dry the nasal membranes.
Have you tried nasal irrigation before? If so, how was your experience?
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