The Neti Pot Cure for Snoring

In 2007 on Oprah, Dr. Mehmet Oz introduced neti, the ancient Indian practice of nasal cleansing with warm salt water using a neti pot. He cited benefits including relief from congestion, allergy and cold symptoms, sinusitis and snoring. Using a neti pot to cure snoring is simple, provided you keep a few precautions in mind.

How It Works

Using a neti pot to cleanse the nasal passages loosens mucus and helps move it out of the body. This relieves pressure and clears congestion, improving clear breathing and alleviating two common causes of snoring.

Procedure

Fill your neti pot with a well-stirred mixture of about 8 ounces lukewarm water (distilled is best, or boil water and wait for it to cool down) and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Lean over the sink; while breathing through your mouth, tilt your head to one side and set the tip of the neti pot's spout on the inside edge of the upper nostril. Carefully tip the neti pot so the water flows gently in through the upper nostril and out the lower one. When completed, switch sides.

Precautions

The nasal passages are tender. Avoid using too much salt in your mixture as this can burn away the cilia, or little hairs in the nose, and irritate nasal membranes. For the same reasons, avoid using water that's too hot or too cold. Do not stick the neti pot's spout too far into the nasal cavity either, as the nasal membranes tear easily.