I first learned about nasal irrigation 20 years ago when I was battling chronic sinusitis a.k.a sinus infection. My daughter, who was a toddler at the time, was also struggling with sinus infection after sinus infection and I was desperate for relief for both of us!

A friend told me about the Neti Pot and from that point forward, I’ve been able to stave off sinus infections for both of us. I suggest it to EVERYONE as a way to fight allergy season and cold/flu season.

Here are five benefits of a saline nasal wash, such as a neti pot.

1. It’s a simple and effective way to help relieve sinus and nasal congestion. Clear Nasal Passages: Say goodbye to that feeling of being stuffed up like a Thanksgiving turkey! Saline nasal washes can help you clear out all the gunk and junk that's clogging up your nasal passages. It's like giving your nose a power wash!

2. Reduce Inflammation: Are you tired of feeling like your nose is a boxing ring and your sinuses are the fighters? Well, a saline nasal wash can help reduce inflammation in your nasal passages, giving you some much-needed relief from the swelling.

3. Moisturize the Nasal Passages: Do you live in a dry, arid climate where even your nose feels like it's cracking and parched? Saline nasal washes can help moisturize your nasal passages, making them feel as fresh and dewy as a spring morning.

4. Decrease Frequency of Sinus Infections: Sick of getting sinus infections more often than your boss calls meetings? A saline nasal wash can help flush out those pesky bacteria and viruses, reducing the risk of sinus infections and giving you some much-needed breathing room.

5. Reduce Dependence on Medications: Are you relying on more nasal sprays and decongestants than a coffee addict relies on caffeine? Using a saline nasal wash can help reduce your dependence on medications, leaving you feeling like a boss who doesn't need no drugs to conquer the day.

   So, there you have it! Saline nasal washes a.k.a nasal irrigation using a Neti Pot can help you breathe easier and reduce your reliance on medications. Just make sure you use sterile water (I use distilled water you can buy at any grocery store) and follow proper hygiene practices, or you might end up with more problems than just a stuffy nose!

   Here’s what you’ll need:

   • A Neti Pot or large plastic syringe

   Ingredients:

   • Warm distilled or sterilized water

   • Non-iodized salt (such as kosher or sea salt)

   Steps:

   1. Wash your hands thoroughly.

   2. Fill the neti pot with warm water. It's important to use distilled or sterilized water to prevent infections.

   3. Add a 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of non-iodized salt to the water and stir until it dissolves. This creates a saline solution that matches the body's natural fluids.

   4. Lean over a sink and tilt your head to one side, so that one nostril is higher than the other.

   5. Place the spout of the neti pot into your upper nostril, creating a seal.

   6. Slowly pour the saline solution into your upper nostril. The solution will flow through your nasal cavity and out the other nostril. Breathe through your mouth during the process.

   7. Once the neti pot is empty, blow your nose gently to clear any remaining water or mucus.

   8. Repeat the process on the other side by tilting your head the other way and pouring the saline solution into your other nostril.

   It's important to clean your neti pot thoroughly after each use, and to replace it every few months to prevent bacterial growth. If you experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms after using a neti pot, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.