You guessed it, we're using a neti pot for allergies, sinus trouble, and other nasal challenges. 

I am a firm believer in the benefits of the neti pot, a device used with warm, slightly salty water to clean the nasal passages and provide relief from allergic rhinitis, sinus trouble, and other nasal challenges.  The name suggests what it is:  a small pot.  It looks like a teapot for an American Girl doll.

The internal structure of the nose is such that air has to pass through projections called nasal conchae (also called turbinates) before it travels down the trachea and into the lungs.  What seems like a straight pathway from the nose to the lungs is not quite so.  Air will enter the nose and swirl through the nasal conchae much like an eddy before it makes it's way to the lungs.  It is quite easy to have microscopic debris settle in the structure of these nasal conchae.  This is when a neti pot can provide quick and incredible relief.

Fill your neti pot with 1/4 teaspoon sea salt per 8 ounces of luke warm water.  Pour into one nostril and let the water run out of the other nostril.  Close off the back of your throat with your tongue so you don't swallow the water.  It does feel a little awkward at first but you'll get the hang of it.  This is a safe ayurvedic practice that a person can do everyday without the menacing side effects of traditional medications.

Expect to breath better, feel clear-headed, have bright eyes and perhaps less dark under-eye circles with regular use of your neti pot.

In Los Angeles, you may purchase your neti pot at Whole Foods, The Bodhi Tree bookstore, and Yogaworks.  These are just a few of the places I know of that carry neti pots.  I am sure there are more.  

I look forward to your questions and comments.

Thank you for reading.

Tamara ZumMallen