You do not have to buy the saline packets - here are the instructions for making your own solution - This came in my Nasal Saline Irrigation Pamphlet my Doctor gave me. Whatever you do - don't use just regular water - you have to have the saline (buffered) .

Homemade Saline Mix

1 ½ tsp - Salt - Use Sea Salt or Pickling Salt (Do not use table salt)
½ tsp - Baking Soda

Mix with 2 cups warm water until well dissolved (Tap water is fine)

"The amount of salt added will depend on your tolerance. However, the more salt that is added the greater the decongestant effect. Bicarbonate is a buffer and will allow the saltwater to be less irritating."

You can cut this in half if you only need one cup.

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Mary