Nasal irrigation may shorten common cold symptoms

Nasal irrigation using a saline solution is an ancient practice that may reduce the duration of common cold symptoms. While there is no cure for the common cold, which lasts an average of nine days, research suggests that rinsing the nasal cavity can shorten the illness, decrease viral transmission to others, and reduce the need for antibiotics.

This inexpensive, non-prescription method is also used by medical professionals to treat allergies, chronic nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, and frequent sinus infections. The practice has roots in Ayurvedic tradition, dating back over 5,000 years, and has been documented in medical literature, including The Lancet, as far back as 1902.

Methods for irrigation include spray bottles, rinsing attachments, or traditional neti pots. The process works mechanically by flushing out mucus, debris, viral particles, and allergens from the nasal passages.