Colds and flu are often regarded as no big deal, but in the past few years perceptions have changed given the campaigns promoting the flu shot. In the following passage, Conscious Acupuncture offers some very simple ways of beating colds and flu the instant you feel as though you’re coming down with something.
Ear Rub
The vascular network of the ears reaches throughout the body. They also possess an immune regulating function that can be easily accessed through massage. Here’s what you do… At the first signs of coming down with a cold, rapidly rub your ears with the palm of your hands creating enough friction to warm them. Rest three minutes and repeat five or six times.
Usually about 10 strokes is sufficient to create warmth. Don’t exceed 20 strokes per round. You don’t want to burn your ears. You want just enough warmth to kick in the immune response. You should feel some relief within two minutes. Repeat the procedure an hour later if necessary.
White Flower Oil
This extremely effective remedy comprised primarily of eucalyptus can be found in any Chinese pharmacy or online. Besides being a decent mosquito repellant, White Flower is an effective first-line defense against colds and flu. Simply apply at the back of the neck, front chest, crook of arm, and inside wrist– like perfume. Be sure to stay sufficiently bundled up after application.
Iodine
Iodine is an essential nutrient found in shellfish, seaweed, and iodized salt. It can also be found in concentrated solutions of 5, 12.5, and 20%. Iodine has powerful antimicrobial properties. Two drops of the 5% or one of the 12.3 is recommended. Stay away from the 20% unless you have been found to be iodine deficient.
Ginger tea
Take 3T of FRESH ginger and boil for 10 minutes in 2 cups of water. You can add a teaspoon of brown sugar if you want. Drink the whole solution warm over about 1/2 hr. Repeat two or three hours later if symptoms persist.
Wrap Up
Any one or all of these interventions can be used depending on what you have handy. These solutions are for first signs of a cold/flu. These signs include sneezing, sniffles, and slight fatigue. If there is a sore throat then something like Yinqiao or andrographis is in order. If there is cough, it’s already too late. Once a full-blown cold has set in, these remedies won’t work. That’s where Conscious Acupuncture can help.