A Neti pot is used to perform the Yoga practice of Jala (literally: "water") Neti. Jala Neti is a form of nasal irrigation. The neti pot looks like a small teapot, with a spout attached near the bottom, and often a handle on the opposite side. It can be made from clay, glass, various metals, plastic, or ceramic. The most durable kinds are made out of metal.

Historically, Neti pots were used in Yoga to assist in clearing the nasal passages, since controlled breathing plays a central role in Yoga.

Using a neti pot

The "spout" is placed against one nostril while slightly tilting the head to one side, allowing the warm salt water to flow in. Once the water fills the nasal cavities, it pours out the other nostril and washes out dried mucus, dust, etc. The gravity pulling down on the water creates a slight negative pressure within the nose which further assists in this process.

The water should feel comfortable in one's sinuses. If it stings, there is likely too much or too little salt in it, or it is too hot or too cold. These conditions should be avoided, as they tend to cause inflammation and symptoms similar to colds or allergies. Once the Neti pot is empty, one should also snort any remaining water out of one's nose with one quick, forceful breath.