Recent studies prove the ancient practice of nasal irrigation is effective at fighting the common cold

Nasal irrigation has been used to treat the common cold for thousands of years, and modern science shows that it works.

By: Mary J. Scourboutakos, Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: November 14, 2025

Words: 1,286

Last Updated: 4 months ago

By Mary J. Scourboutakos, Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University

It starts with a slight scratchiness at the back of your throat.

Then, a sneeze.

Then coughing, sniffling and full-on congestion, with or without fever, for a few insufferable days.

Viral upper respiratory tract infections – also known as the common cold – afflict everyone, typically three times per year, lasting, on average, nine days.

Colds don’t respond to …

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