I’ve suffered from year-round allergies — indoor and outdoor — for over 20 years. For 20 of those years I made the mistake of using over-the-counter nasal decongestants, and sadly I got seriously addicted to them.
I began using them when I was a teenager because, at that time, when I developed my allergies and as they got steadily worse year after year, it seemed like nothing else could give me the relief I needed. At night was the worst because I couldn’t sleep when my head was plugged up, and sometimes even the Benedryl I took didn’t work, so I resorted to the nasal decongestants.
It wasn’t long before I was using a nasal decongestant on a daily basis.
Back then, people didn’t really know how dangerous over-the-counter nasal decongestants could be, or how they could cause rebound nasal congestion, as well as mess up the inner lining of your nose.
It wasn’t until 2 years ago and after doing a ton of research online that I decided to go cold turkey off my nasal decongestant — and believe me, that was a real eye opener! Fortunately, I’d begun working from home at the time so if I couldn’t sleep because of my allergies I’d just get up and work until I was too tired to care and then I’d go to sleep.
Finally, I was off the nasal decongestant for good, but it took months before my nose felt normal again.
During all that research I did, one of the things I discovered was a neti pot to help eliminate sinus and head colds.
What Is A Neti Pot?
A Neti Pot looks like a smaller version of Aladdin’s magic lamp.
Neti Pots originated in India, and come from the Ayurvedic Yoga tradition.
There are many different types and sizes of Neti Pot, but the most common are ceramic Neti Pots and plastic, non-breakable Neti Pots.
To use a Neti Pot, you simply put a mixture of warm water and non-iodized salt in it and then pour the mixture into your nose. (Don’t worry, it doesn’t go down your throat… because your head it tilted parallel to the ground.)
The theory behind using a Neti Pot to clear your sinuses is that the process thins the mucus and makes it easier for you to get rid of it. It helps to wash away all the gunk that gets stuck in your sinuses too, so you can breathe more freely.
Many people have found Neti Pots to be the best solution for relieving allergies as well as sinus problems.
Advantages Of Using A Neti Pot
1. Neti Pots are non-addicting.
This is one of the biggest advantages for me, after being addicted to nasal decongestants for so long. Trying to find something that is not addicting, but that still gets the job done is a real challenge. A Neti Pot was the answer for me.
2. You can make the mixture for your Neti Pot at home.
Again, a big plus. Sea salt is very inexpensive and lukewarm water of course is easy to come by as well. For many years, I spent big money on those nasal decongestants and knowing how much I’m saving now by using a Neti Pot is so nice.
3. Neti Pots provide lots of types of relief.
A Neti Pot alleviates facial pain, nasal congestion, and pressure.
4. A Neti Pot eliminates the need for other forms of sinus relief.
When you use a Neti Pot, you won’t need nasal decongestant sprays, antibiotics, and even over-the-counter allergy/pain medications any longer. Here are some ways that Neti Pots have made life better for a number of people.
Disadvantages Of Using A Neti Pot
1. The Neti Pot can be fragile and may break easily.
That is, unless you purchase a plastic Neti Pot.
2. It can be somewhat awkward to use a Neti Pot.
You have to twist and bend just right to get the water to go where you want and keep from swallowing it. It may seem uncomfortable at first, but after a few tries, you’ll have the process of using a Neti Pot down pat.
3. Cleaning the Neti Pot can be an issue.
Depending on what your Neti Pot is made of, it can have small pores where bacteria and dirt can get stuck. Just be sure to clean your Neti Pot thoroughly after each use.
How To Properly Use A Neti Pot
As you can tell, I really prefer using a Neti Pot over nasal decongestants. The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages as far as I’m concerned, and anything that keeps my sinuses clear has my full support!
Photos: Before & After Using A Neti Pot
Read Jeff’s description of these photos to see how the Neti Pot made a difference for him… before and after.
Reviews From Others Who Have Used Neti Pots
- Operation Neti Pot
- Neti Pot Instructions
- Benefits Of A Neti Pot
- Using A Neti Pot After Becoming Addicted To Afrin Decongestant
- Neti Pot Adventures
- A Neti Pot As An Alternative To Nasal Sprays
- Video: Using A Neti Pot
My favorite things to write about are topics that have to do with pregnancy, weddings, saving money, living green, and life with dogs. When I’m not writing, I love to spend time with my husband, read, create 3D artwork and Native American beadwork.
