Common Cold & Flu
In Chinese medicine viral infections that cause seasonal sickness are described as wind invasions of external pathogens. Whether or not you will get the latest bug going around has to do with both the strength of your body’s wei qi (or immune system) as well as the strength of the pathogen (virus) itself. If you frequently get colds and flus, this may be an indication that your immune system is not functioning optimally. In addition to treating your immediate illness, your acupuncturist will assess the condition of your body’s defense mechanism and treat you with herbs and acupuncture to help boost your overall health and ability to fight off future infections. Here are a few tips that will help prevent you from catching a cold:
Releasing Your Exterior First, make a hot cup of strong ginger tea by boiling several slices of fresh ginger root in water for 10 minutes. Then draw a very hot bath and get in for about 15 minutes while you drink your tea. Wear a warm winter hat and possibly a scarf to keep your head and neck warm. You should soon begin to sweat. After about 15 minutes, get out of the bath and immediately bundle up in many layers of warm clothing, go to bed and sweat for another 5-10 minutes. Then have a warm shower and dry off. Now stay covered and rest remembering to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. |