The Laryngoscope, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, recently published the results of an American study that surveyed 211 patients with different nasal inflammatory conditions, including allergies. The study concluded that the daily use of nasal cleansing with salt water significantly improved many of the parameters of experienced discomfort. It also revealed that nasal irrigation has the potential to improve overall quality of life and is a cost-effective treatment.

Benefits of Nasal Rinse

Nasal irrigation is a personal hygiene practice that involves flooding the nasal cavity with warm saline solution. The goal of nasal irrigation is to clear out excess mucus and particulates while moisturizing the nasal cavity. Either a fluid-filled syringe such as Nasaline® or a Neti Pot® can be used. Nasaline was developed by a team of Swedish ear, nose, and throat specialists. Neti pots have been used in India and South East Asia for centuries to clear the nasal passages and sinuses, and are still widely used today around the world.

The practice of nasal irrigation/rinse has been subjected to clinical testing and has been found to be safe and beneficial, with no apparent side effects. A nasal rinse will:

Remove mucus and pollution of the nasal passages and sinuses;

Help to prevent respiratory tract diseases;

Relieve allergies, colds and sinusitis;

Help in the treatment of headaches and migraines; and

Remove feelings of drowsiness, making the head feel clear and light.

Nasal Irrigation Treatments

There are several products on the market that profess to clear nasal passages and sinus airways, however, many are prescription drugs or over-the-counter products that are filled with artificial ingredients. Nasaline and neti pots are natural-therapy alternatives. They are gentle and easy-to-use.

Doctors recommend nasal irrigation to treat symptoms associated with colds, the flu, allergies, or other sinus-related infections.

So, how are they used?

Nasaline: The patented silicone tip is designed to fit snugly in most adult nostrils. The tip produces a gentle swirl stream when the saline solution enters the nose washing away harmful, irritating particles. Simply fill the Nasaline syringe with 2-ounces of saline solution and experience drug-free relief from everyday nasal and sinus ailments.

Neti Pot: This is an interesting little pot that looks like a small tea pot. It is used for running a saline solution through nasal passages. It will moisturize, clear nasal passages, and help to prevent infections.

To use the neti pot, simply prepare the saline solution by adding 8-ounces of warm water and a quarter teaspoon of non-iodized salt the pot. Turn your head to the side, and insert the spout into the upper nostril. Raise the neti pot so the saline solution flows into the nose and out of the lower nostril.

“Users can also enhance the benefits of the nasal wash. For neti pot use, neti pot salts and washes are available,” Tom Maroney, CEO of Banner Therapy Products, said. “For Nasaline users, complementing salts are also helpful.”

» Read more: Alternative Health Treatments for Nasal Irrigation