Nose rinsing

Nasal irrigation is a hygiene practice where you rinse warm salt water through your nostrils.

The practice has been around for centuries and is even documented in ancient history.

My neti pot travels with me everywhere.

Why

My parents made me rinse my nose as a child when I got sinusitis, which happened almost every month during the winter. Bad headaches, not being able to breathe or smell properly, really depressed me. Even then, I felt that nose rinsing worked well, but not necessarily after I was already sick. So, I started doing it daily as prevention, and it was a game-changer.

Nasal irrigation is known for:

Washing out particles, pollutants, and allergens from the nose

Preventing the buildup of these substances in the sinuses

Preventing inflammation or sinusitis

My personal reasons for nasal irrigation:

Preventing sinusitis

Having a clean feeling in my nose

Improving my overall well-being

How

There are many ways to do it. 

I used rinse bottles at first, but switched to a neti pot a few years ago. I find it more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean.

I take a pinch of organic salt (half a teaspoon), add it to the neti pot, and mix it with warm tap water. If I'm somewhere with unsafe tap water, I use warm bottled water. You can also buy pre-filled saline mixes at drugstores.

I rinse my nose twice daily, morning and evening.

My experience

I started regular nasal irrigation over 10 years ago. At first it felt unusual, but I kept doing it, and it became part of my routine. Now, I automatically rinse after brushing my teeth without even thinking about it.

I've completely gotten rid of sinusitis and even believe daily rinsing strengthens my immune system. I especially appreciate it when traveling to places with higher smog or pollution levels.

For example, I was in Australia during the heavy bushfires in 2019/2020, and nasal irrigation literally saved my respiratory system many times.

Disclaimer: This information is based on personal experience and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have concerns, consult with a healthcare professional.