NETi

Neti is a traditional yogic cleansing practice that involves rinsing the nasal passages with a saline solution. It is one of the shatkarmas, a set of purification techniques described in classical yogic texts, and is intended to clear nasal passages, improve breathing, and support nasal health. In contemporary use, neti is commonly performed with a small vessel called a neti pot or a squeeze bottle, using a saline solution that matches the body's own fluids.

Two common forms are jala neti and sutra neti. Jala neti uses a gentle flow of warm saline solution poured into one nostril and allowed to drain from the other, with the head tilted to facilitate drainage. Sutra neti employs a thin thread or suture passed through one nostril into the nasopharynx and drawn out through the mouth or another nostril; this method is less common and requires careful instruction to avoid injury.

Preparation involves a saline solution of about 0.9% salt, warmed to roughly body temperature. Use distilled, boiled and cooled, or commercially prepared sterile saline. Clean the neti pot or bottle before and after use. Do not use tap water unless it has been sterilized or treated, and never swallow the rinse. After rinsing, gently blow the nose or exhale through the mouth to clear moisture.

Safety and contraindications include nosebleeds, nasal obstruction, ear infections, or recent nasal surgery. Stop if pain, dizziness, or unusual discharge occurs. People with compromised immune systems should consult a clinician. Non-sterile water used for irrigation carries a risk of serious infection, though such cases are rare.

Evidence on efficacy is mixed; some studies report symptom relief for chronic rhinosinusitis and allergic rhinitis, while others show limited or inconsistent benefit. Neti is generally considered safe when performed correctly and with proper water quality, but it should not replace medical treatment for persistent nasal conditions.