Nasal irrigation is recommended for rhinitis and sinusitis as it significantly diminishes the nasal congestion and obstruction associated to these conditions. As it is a non-pharmacological treatment it can be applied in acute and chronic conditions or when the use of medical drugs is not advisable, for example during pregnancy or sports. Nasal irrigation is best applied before nasal spray applications because, as it eliminates secretions, the action of the spray on the mucosa is enhanced.

Nasal irrigation is particularly useful in breathing allergies as the nose is the gateway for allergens. Pollen allergy patients find a nasal wash three times a day during the flowering period very useful to remove allergens as well as inflammatory secretions produced by the allergic reaction.

In addition, nasal irrigation is very useful for counteracting post-nasal dripping which causes retention of thick secretions in the throat and frequently causes chronic coughing in patients.

Nasal irrigation is also utilized as a hygienic measure under environmental pollution situations or when the ambient air is contaminated by irritating agents. This irrigation prevents inflammation of the nasal mucosa, improves breathing and restores the mucocilliary function, which is generally depressed in these situations. It is also done as a hygienic measure after nasal endoscopic surgery as it removes crusts and clots which could produce adherences.