The Benefits of Jala Neti
In the U.S., sinus problems is the #1 reason people see a doctor. With increasing pollution and chemicals in our environment, there is an enormous rise in the number of people who suffer various forms of nasal congestion and respiratory illnesses. Alternative health practitioners throughout the world recommend the regular practice of nasal cleansing using a saline solution as part of a regular regimen of health and wellness, a basic health-maintenance activity equal to flossing your teeth. Neti is a gentle, safe, efficient way to deliver a good cleansing dose of saline to the nose.
Although the practice of nasal irrigation originated in India, today there are numerous people in Europe and the United States who use this simple technique as part of their daily routine.
Proponents claim that jala neti has numerous benefits including:
* reduction of allergy problems
* improvement to breathing
* elimination of post-nasal drip
* elimination of sinusitis or chronic sinus infections
* moistening of dry nasal passages
* temporarily reduces symptoms of phantosmia
* common colds are either avoided or the duration greatly shortened
* general improvement to sinus health.
Yogic breathing practices known as pranayama are greatly enhanced by the practice of jala neti since many of them involve deep breathing through the nostrils.
Other benefits practitioners may notice:
* vision is clearer. Jala neti will clean the tear ducts, enabling better cleaning and moistening of the eyes.
* improved sense of smell
* improved sense of taste
* deeper more relaxed breathing
Though no research has been done, jala neti may help some people with sleep apnea.