Little teapots with long spouts have become a fixture in many homes for reasons that have nothing to do with tea. Called neti pots, they are used to rinse the nasal passages with a saline (salt-based) solution, and have become popular as a treatment for congested sinuses, colds and allergies, and for moistening nasal passages exposed to dry indoor air...More at Is Rinsing Your Sinuses Safe?
The problem isn’t the Neti pot, it’s that manufacturers aren’t providing clear enough instructions on the dos and don’ts of using their products. Specifically, instructions that come with the products often leave out the all-important requirement that you DO NOT USE TAP WATER in your Neti.
Tap water contains trace amounts of bacteria and protozoa, which is usually not a problem when you drink the water because your stomach acid does its job. But, when you are mainlining those organisms into your nasal passages, exceptionally bad outcomes can result...More at How Not to Die Using a Neti Pot
Himalayan Institute Original Neti Pot
Using Original Neti Pot safely
Use only distilled water or cooled water that has been boiled for one minute.This is perfect for clearing blocked nasal passages. Just fill this little pot add 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt. Tilt your head to one side while the spout is inserted in one nostril. You will be amazed at how freely the nasal blockage flows!
Repeat the process on the other side of your nose. Do this twice a day and you will start to feel the difference! Always empty the neti pot completely after each use. Allow it to completely air-dry. Wash it in the dishwasher periodically. Alternately, wash it with soap and water and allow it to completely air-dry.
I first became aware of this ancient Himalayan health agent on May 22, 2007 when Dr. Oz introduced it on the Oprah! show. I went out and bought mine that same day and already it has made such a good difference for me. I highly recommend it but, you should use it only in dire need.
Himalayan Institute Original Neti Pot (on Amazon)