#783 Olfactory Direct

So I was reading a magazine the other day and there was an interesting article about allergies. Actually it was about a new, natural and effective, millennial old method for treating same.
It involved cleansing the nasal passages of microscopic allergens. The cleaning method employs an isotonic solution of saline and water. It is called by some nasal irrigation.
Yes, nasal irrigation.
I know I know. Sounds like you’re trying to grow your nose. What’s next, nasal fertilization?
And, although the theory is a good one, cleaning the inside of your nasal passages with a flow of warm fluid, the practical implementation means pouring water in your nose.
A shiver goes down my spine just thinking of it. Visions of the discomfort of swimming and diving in the pool and getting nasal burn. Or accidentally laughing while drinking and getting the dread searing snort of Coca-Cola.
And they’re telling us to do it on purpose?
There’s even a little device for it called a neti pot that has purportedly been used by people in India for ages. It looks like a tiny teapot, so if you’re at someone’s house in India, be careful of being offered tea. They use it as part if their daily routine; shaving, brushing their teeth, irrigating their noses...
If you’re into a more olfactory direct method, the article suggests you use a turkey baster. The American turkey baster, such a versatile household tool. From artificial insemination to nasal irrigation, who has time for turkey?
Anyhow, the article inspired me to look up the practice on the web. I found that the stinging sensation of accidental water-snorting need not occur if you have the proper balance of salt to water and you make sure the water is at room temperature. They recommend kosher salt too, as most American table salt has iodine in it, which contributes to stinging.
Simply squirt or pour into one nostril and let drain out. I’m guessing it’s messier than it sounds.
Oh, by the way, I teased about the term nasal irrigation. I’ve decided I can live with it.
The other term used by insiders is nasal douching.
America, ya gotta love it.