By frequent request, and in time for cold weather, I have compiled my favorite Cold and Flu prevention and treatment tips and created convenient little care packages that are available in my office.
Each package contains the asterisked items below, as well as my Top Ten recommendations, also below.... These little packages could make great gifts, so let me know if you're interested in ordering a few.
*1) HERBS -
Pour contents of 1 silver packet into a mug of hot water & drink (repeat 3xday)
a) if your cold starts with a runny nose, start with the bag marked GZT (Gui Zhi Tang)
b) if your cold starts with a bad sore throat, start with the bag marked YQ (Yin Qiao)
*2) ESSENTIAL OIL -
Drop 3 drops of Eucalyptus EO into a mug of hot water (do not drink). Put a towel over your head, as a tent, with the mug under your nose, and breathe in the steamy vapor. Alternatively, use EO as a chest rub.
*3) LOZENGES -
To soothe a sore throat, or at the first sign of a cold, try a manuka honey and bee pollen lozenge (1-2xday, or as needed, but no more than 5xday; it's medicine, not candy)
4) DRINK HOT LIQUIDS -
Sip throughout the day: herbal teas, hot water with a slice of lemon, miso broth (ideally with chopped scallions), or chicken soup
5) GARGLE WITH SALT WATER -
This old-fashioned technique can soothe a sore throat and cleanse the throat tissues
6) USE A NETI POT -
With slightly salted warm water in order to clear and soothe the nasal passages
7) KEEP YOUR NECK & FEET WARM -
Wear a scarf or turtle-neck shirt and double up on warm socks
8) SWEAT -
Breaking a slight sweat at the early stages of a cold, especially behind the neck, can stop the cold from progressing
a) Take a hot bath (consider adding epsom salts) & make sure to keep hydrated/drink fluids
b) Wear extra clothes & put additional blankets over you
9) SLEEP -
Rest and more rest; getting sick is often an indication to slow down and catch up on self-care
10) GET ACUPUNCTURE -
Make an appointment. Getting a treatment can help stop a cold or help you heal from it faster. (Gua Sa technique can be key. If you have a tool at home, consider this a reminder to use it.)
Plus, there are additional herbs that may be better suited to your specific symptoms, whether a cough, fever, nasal or ear congestion, or laryngitis.
Other things I like:
- Elderberry tincture
- Airborne – includes Chinese herbs, vitamins, minerals and amino acids (it's available almost everywhere)
For questions, appointments, or to share your favorite strategies, call/text: (207) 266-8633.
Be & stay well this season!