Read the fine print and you will find that common medications for colds (Tylenol Cold, Dayquil, Mucinex) can only ALLEVIATE the symptoms. By alleviating the symptoms, patients suffer less but the condition does not necessarily resolve. Symptoms of coughing, sneezing and runny nose are the body’s natural way of expelling pathogens. By suppressing symptoms, you may feel better temporarily, but in fact the medicine has trapped the pathogens inside rather than expelling them. World renown Chinese medicine author Giovanni Maciocia said that antibiotics also can lock the pathogen inside the body and that it can emerge later.
Chinese medicine has a more specific and effective approach in treating common cold, flu, and allergies. At our Edina acupuncture clinic we use herbs that expel pathogenic factors through perspiration; as well as antibiotic, antiviral, warming and tonic herbs when appropriate, recognizing that each person has an unique constitution, their own reactions/responses to the same bacteria/virus or allergen.
For initial onset, we generally ask patients to take herbs every 4 hours. A higher dose is recommended because colds often develop and change rapidly and can become more severe very quickly. If the dosage is not high enough, it may be ineffective in bringing the situation under control. It is like chasing a runaway car: you must first speed up to catch up to it, then slow down. Once the symptoms have begun responding, you can reduce the total dosage.
When using these herbs in conjunction with our Acupuncture Immune System Booster that will double the healing process!
What Can You Do at Home For A Cold?
EAT THESE
•Brown rice and millet porridge/congee. This is rice cooked until it’s soft like oatmeal. Alternatively, you can soak brown rice in water, then blend it in a blender and then cook it. Stir often. The finished product will look like glue. Rice and millet in this form strengthens the Spleen and gives the body energy to fight the cold. Also, it warms up your body and will help induce sweating to expel the exterior pathogen.
•Vegetables
•Chicken soup and lots of water – This is what my grandma practiced.
Get Lots Of Sleep. Just like cell phones need to be recharged, so does your body. Take time and let it rest.
If you or our loved ones are suffering from a cold, flu or allergy give us a call today at 952-831-8080 or fill out our contact form.
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P.P.S. Thanks to Tina Chen, L.Ac. for inspiration in this article.
