The Neti Pot (or Neti Lota) is the small spouted vessel used for centuries in Ayurvedic tradition for nasal rinsing, a practice called Jala Neti. This guide covers everything you need to get started: how it works, how to use it step by step, which water and how much salt, how to choose between copper and ceramic, and how to clean it.
What a Neti Pot is and what it is used for
A Neti Pot is a small pitcher designed to let a lukewarm saline solution flow from one nostril to the other. In yoga and Ayurveda, nasal rinsing is part of daily hygiene practices (shatkarma): it is used to cleanse the nasal passages of dust and excess mucus and to feel the nose clearer, especially during colds, pollen seasons or in dry, dusty environments.
It is not a medicine: it is a cleansing gesture, like brushing your teeth. If you have frequent or persistent problems, talk to your doctor.
How to use a Neti Pot: step by step
- Prepare the solution. Fill the Neti Pot with about half a litre of lukewarm water and dissolve one level teaspoon of fine, non-iodised salt.
- Stand over the sink with your head tilted slightly forward and to the side.
- Insert the spout into the upper nostril, without forcing, and breathe through your mouth.
- Let the water flow: it will come out of the other nostril. No need to push.
- Repeat on the other side with the same amount of solution.
- Gently blow your nose, one nostril at a time, without force.
The most common habit is to do it in the morning, on waking, as part of the Ayurvedic morning routine with tongue scraper and Neti Pot.
Which water and how much salt
- Water: use distilled water, or tap water that has been boiled and cooled until lukewarm. Never untreated tap water.
- Salt: about 4-5 grams (one level teaspoon) per half litre, a concentration close to that of body fluids (0.9%). Too much or too little salt is uncomfortable.
- Temperature: lukewarm, close to body temperature.
Copper or ceramic Neti Pot: which to choose
Both do the same job; only the material changes.
- Copper Neti Pot: the metal of Ayurvedic tradition, valued for its natural hygiene. Clean it with lukewarm water and lemon, or with water and coarse salt to restore the shine of the copper.
- Ceramic Neti Pot: a natural, hypoallergenic, recyclable material that does not corrode in contact with salt. After use, just wash it with boiling water. It is also the most affordable way to start.
You can find both in the Nasal rinsing Neti Lota category.
How to clean your Neti Pot
After each use, rinse the vessel with hot water and let it dry upside down. For the copper model, now and then rub it with half a lemon and coarse salt, then rinse well: details in the guide how to clean a copper tongue scraper and Neti Pot with natural methods.
Precautions
- Do not use the Neti Pot if your nose is completely blocked, if you have ear pain or an ear infection, or if you have recurrent nosebleeds.
- Not suitable for young children without a paediatrician's advice.
- If you feel a burning sensation, check the amount of salt and the water temperature.
- Prepare a fresh solution each time and do not share the vessel.
Frequently asked questions
How often can I do nasal rinsing?
In traditional practice it is done once a day, in the morning. When needed, some repeat it in the evening. If you notice dryness, reduce the frequency.
Can I use coarse kitchen salt?
Fine non-iodised salt is better because it dissolves well. If you use coarse salt, dissolve it completely before pouring the solution.
Does the Neti Pot hurt?
With the right amount of salt and the right temperature, the passage is gentle and painless. Burning is almost always a sign of too much salt, or water that is too hot or too cold.
How long does a Neti Pot last?
Both copper and ceramic last for years with proper cleaning.
To complete the ritual
Nasal rinsing pairs well with other gestures of daily Ayurvedic care: the copper tongue scraper for tongue cleaning, and all the products in the Wellness and Ayurveda category. If you are interested in traditional practices, also read the guide to sulphur sticks and the guide to Aleppo soap.
Not sure which to choose? Write to us: we are happy to help. Delivery information and timings on the Shipping and delivery page.