Neti, or nasal irrigation, is an ancient Ayurvedic and yogic practice of cleaning the nose with water. This is an important part of the Ayurvedic healthy lifestyle routine.
What is Neti?
Neti is a nasal cleansing technique performed to clear the nasal passages. There are two types of neti: Jala neti (water neti) and Sutra neti (thread neti). A neti pot is used to perform water neti, while thread neti is performed using a soft rubber catheter or a rolled cotton string that’s been dipped in melted beeswax.
What is a Neti Pot?
A neti pot is a medium for performing nasal irrigation. It can be made from plastic, ceramic, stainless steel or copper. It looks like a teapot but has a longer spout.
As an Ayurvedic practitioner, I love to use copper neti pots. Copper has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine — it is an antimicrobial metal, and people used to store water in copper vessels overnight in ancient days to enhance their wellbeing. This is known as ‘Tamara jal’ in Ayurvedic medicine, and is also the reason copper water bottles and jugs are becoming popular today. That said, pots in other materials are also widely available.
Copper neti pots are available at AyuNature Wellness at a very affordable price. Contact the clinic if you are interested in purchasing one.
Why Do Neti?
Nasal rinse, or jala neti, is an effective method to help with a variety of symptoms such as nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, runny nose or facial pain and pressure. This has been a practice for thousands of years, and more recently the clinical benefits of saline rinses have been recognised. Studies on nasal rinses such as Saline nasal irrigation for upper respiratory conditions and A review on the therapeutic effects of Neti have found Neti to be an effective adjunctive care for upper respiratory tract concerns.
When we breathe, we take in allergens, pollution and many other forms of irritants. This can lead to increased mucus production and nasal or sinus congestion and/or infections. By performing nasal rinses, one can:
- Prevent this accumulation
- Flush out mucus and other particles, helping to thin out mucus
- Open up nasal passages
- Reduce inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes
- Maintain a healthy nasal and sinus lining
- Help prevent nasal dryness
- Support a healthy upper respiratory system
Important Tips for Neti
- Always wash your hands and neti pot thoroughly before using.
- After use, ensure your neti pot is completely dry.
- You can use non-iodised salt to help with stinging if it occurs.
- Make sure the salt is completely dissolved in the water.
- If you are new to it, limit your time to 2–3 minutes a day on each nostril.
- Visit your doctor if you notice discoloured mucus or any related concerns.
Dr Aseem Gautam
AyuNature Wellness
