Rubber Sutra Neti

Sutra is a Sanskrit term which literally translates into ‘Thread‘ and Neti is used here for ‘Nasal Cleaning‘

Sutra neti, a type of neti, is one of Shatkarma which uses a cotton thread or rubber catheter to clean the nasal passages. It’s also called Thread Neti. Anciently this technique was described in Hatha Yoga Pradipika & Gheranda Samhita in a detailed manner.

In sutra neti, A cotton thread or a rubber catheter is inserted into the nostril in a way that it comes out of the mouth. In this way, mucus and debris are removed and hence nasal passages opened to their fullest capacity. It is also proved to be beneficial in nasal polyps.

Thread used in Sutra Neti

Either you can use cotton thread having 4mm width and around 36 cm long (long enough to pass down the nose and reach out through the mouth) or a thin rubber catheter. 

For beginners using a thin rubber catheter is preferred as it’s more lubricated as compare to a cotton thread, so it easily slides through nasal passages.

While using cotton thread for Sutra neti, make sure to lubricate it using beeswax (or any other agent) otherwise it can produce a sense of nausea.

Anatomy of the Nasal Cavity

Beginners performing sutra neti should have clear knowledge about the anatomy of the nasal cavity and the structures from where the thread is passed.

The nasal cavity resembles a long cave. The roof is narrow and the floor is wide. There lies a valve near the root of the nose into the upper back of the throat.

It is important to keep the thread pointed toward the back of the throat. Move it downward and inward. It should easily slide down inside the back opening of the nose.

The entire procedure should be completely pain-free. If pain is experienced, the method needs to be checked and string should be inserted again and in proper direction and speed.