Monday, November 14, 2011

My Favourite Trick for Colds (and it's free!)

I forgot to mention one other souvenir I brought home from Mexico - a wicked cold. It's actually better now and obviously there are a lot worse things I could bring home from Mexico! I really wanted to do this naturopathic trick I picked up from my Naturopathic Doctor a few years ago but I didn't have socks! It sounds so weird but I almost get a little excited if I start to get sick because I love doing this! I don't care how nuts I sound, don't knock it until you try it people!

I think it feels so nice after a few minutes and you feel all warm and tingly and I always have an amazing sleep. Here it is:

 
 
The Wet Sock Treatment (I know, I know. Just trust me okay?)
 
 
Indications: Sore throat or any inflammation or infection of the throat, neck pain, ear infections, headaches, migraines, nasal congestion, upper respiratory infections, coughs, bronchitis, and sinus infections.
Contraindications: Use with caution in diabetes, Raynaud’s phenomenon or syndrome, arterial insufficiency or advanced intermittent claudication. The warming phase is especially important for these patients. Please consult your physician.
 
Supplies
  • 1 pair white cotton socks
  • 1 pair thick wool socks
  • Towel
  • Warm bath or warm foot bath
Directions
 
1.Take a pair of cotton socks and soak them completely with cold water. Be sure to wring the socks out thoroughly so they do not drip.
2.Warm your feet first. This is very important as the treatment will not be as effective and could be harmful if your feet are not warmed first. Soaking your feet in warm water for at least 5-10 minutes or taking a warm bath for 5-10 minutes can accomplish warming.
 3.Dry off feet and body with a dry towel.
 4.Place cold wet socks on feet. Cover with thick wool socks. Go directly to bed. Avoid getting chilled.
 5.Keep the socks on overnight. You will find that the wet cotton socks will be dry in the morning.
 
 Effects of the Wet Sock Treatment: This treatment acts to reflexively increase the circulation and decrease congestion in the upper respiratory passages, head, and throat. It has a sedating action and many patients report that they sleep much better during the treatment. This treatment is also effective for pain relief and increases the healing response during acute infections.The wet sock treatment is best if repeated for three nights in a row, or as instructed by your physician.
(Please note, I got these specific instructions from this site, as I don't have them written down anywhere, I've just done it so many times I do it by memory)
 
Let me know if you are brave enough to try it!
 
xoxo,
Taren

1 comment:

  1. I have never heard of doing that before for colds...might have to try it the next time I have one. Hope you start feeling better soon!

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