Natural Help for Sinuses: Using a Neti Pot

Nasal congestion is a common health complaint, but a natural remedy exists. Using a neti pot removes all the dirt and bacteria-filled mucus from within the nose. It also helps to drain the sinus cavities.

It is quite common for our nasal passages to become clogged or blocked, especially with all of today’s pollutants and any other chemical irritants we may come in contact with. Even pollen and dust can be sources of irritation for many people. With all these irritants in our daily lives, it’s no wonder that nasal congestion is a major health complaint.

Among the many indications of nasal congestion, two of the most debilitating symptoms are headaches and pressure behind the eyes, which may indicate sinusitis. Sinusitis is a condition in which the lining of the sinus passages become inflamed due to bacteria inside the nasal cavities. Normally the tiny hairs inside the nasal passages clean out all the unwanted bacteria-causing pollutants; however, when congestion occurs, proper drainage cannot, thus allowing bacteria to grow. Read more

Turmeric and Neti Pots Help Sinus Infections and Chronic Sinusitis

Sinus infection, or sinusitis, is an inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages. A sinus infection can cause a headache or pressure in the eyes, nose, cheek area, or on one side of the head. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology reports that sinusitis causes a loss of four workdays per year, causing employers to list sinusitis as one of the top ten medical conditions. Fortunately, there are simple, inexpensive natural remedies for sinusitis.

Using turmeric or salt inhalation with a neti pot and using simple steam inhalation can treat sinus infections.

Sinusitis, also known as rhinosinusitis, is an infection or inflammation of the lining of the sinus cavities in the nose. This condition affects more than 40 million Americans annually. Sinusitis can be caused by colds, flu or allergies. Diseases such as bacterial infections also cause sinusitis, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Sinus infections can be painful, leading to headaches and work impairment. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology reports that sinusitis causes a loss of four workdays per year, causing employers to list sinusitis as one of the top ten medical conditions. Read more

Allergies? Neti Pot Clears Congestion

New York Times “Really?” columnist Anahad O’Connor explores the claims and the science behindthe neti pot. Does it really clear congestion?

The Remedy: The Neti Pot

The Claim: It clears congestion.

The Science: Pills and nasal sprays are the obvious choice for allergies and congested sinuses. But both can have side effects, and some sprays in particular can lead to dependence and nasal irritation. For a quick home remedy, doctors recommend irrigating the sinus cavity with a mild saline solution. One option is to snort warm salt water from cupped hands. But a more convenient approach is to use a neti pot, which resembles a small teapot and sells in most stores for about $10, usually with packets of dry saline solution included. Read more