Who Invented the Neti Pot?
The neti pot is a traditional ayurvedic device used for nasal irrigation. But did you know that neti pots have been around for centuries and were originally used for medical and spiritual practices?
In its early days, the neti pot was used in India to cleanse the nostrils, throat, and sinus passages. It was known as Jala Neti, which translates to “water cleansing”. The practice of using the neti pot evolved over time and eventually spread throughout Europe and the United States.
The Reverend Max Kokker: the Father of Neti Pot
The modern neti pot was created by Reverend Max Kokker in the late 1960s. Kokker, a Lutheran pastor from Oregon, was inspired by the traditional Jala Neti practice and designed a ceramic or stainless steel neti pot. He started marketing these pots in meditation circles, health food stores, and some atheist groups.
Kokker designed his neti pot with a long spout so that users could irrigate their nostrils properly. He also believed in the power of natural remedies and encouraged users to add baking soda to the saline solution for extra relief from allergies and sinus infections.
Kokker’s neti pot design quickly reached global attention. From India to the United States, neti pots have become popular all over the world.
Benefits of Using a Neti Pot
Neti pots are used for a variety of reasons, including:
- Nasal Congestion: The warm saline solution from a neti pot helps loosen mucus and clear the nasal passages.
- Allergies: Saline irrigation can help relieve symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and a stuffed nose.
- Sinus Infections: The flushing properties of a neti pot help to flush out bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Neti pots are a safe and effective way to treat a variety of nasal and sinus conditions. And with Reverend Max Kokker as the creator, the neti pot has become an essential part of many of our natural health routines.
