How Much Salt To Put In a Neti Pot?
Nasal irrigation, which is also known as “neti potting” or “sinus rinsing,” involves pouring a saline solution into the nasal passages to help clear out mucus, allergens, and other irritants from the sinuses. Salt is a necessary component of any neti pot solution; however, it is important to understand the right amount of salt needed — too little or too much can be harmful.
What Type of Salt?
It is important to use non-iodized salt for neti pot solutions, so that the iodine in iodized salt does not irritate the nose. It is also a good idea to use a form of salt specifically marketed for use in neti pots, as this will have the proper concentration of salt for safety.
How Much Salt To Use?
For a neti pot solution, use 1/4 teaspoon of salt per 8 ounces of distilled or sterile water. You can use a measuring spoon to measure out the salt, and be sure to dissolve the salt completely in the water before pouring it into the neti pot.
Do not use more than 1/4 teaspoon of salt per 8 ounces of water, as this can cause discomfort.
It is also not recommended to use less than 1/4 teaspoon of salt per 8 ounces of water, as this can leave the nasal passages too dry.
Tips For Safely Making a Neti Pot Solution
To safely make a neti pot solution:
- Use only distilled or sterile water. Tap water may contain microorganisms that can cause serious infections. It’s also important to use only filtered water that does not contain any added fluoride or chlorine.
- Only use a 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Too much salt can cause irritation in the nose, while too little can leave the nasal passages too dry.
- Dissolve the salt completely before using. The salt should dissolve completely in the water before it is poured into the neti pot.
- Clean your neti pot. Be sure to clean your neti pot after each use with soap and warm water.
Neti potting can be an effective way to clear out the sinus passages. However, to avoid irritation or infection, it is important to follow the guidelines listed above when making the saline solution.
