Five Tips to Prevent Colds and Flu
Even though the Fall’s cold and flu season has passed, school has started up again and this brings about the need to change how we prepare our self care activities to preserve and enhance our energy for the coming months.
In traditional Chinese medicine the fall is the time of harvesting, saving and storing what the abundant summer has produced. This principal applies to the human condition in that we have built strength and muscle and vitamin D stores to serve us through the less active winter months. This is the time to build up the immune system in preparation for the cold and flu season.
5 Strategies for Self Care
First think of all the things you can do to promote your health during the fall season, like:
1. seeing an acupuncturist to boost your body’s immune system
2. make sure you’re taking the right mix and dosage of vitamins
3. throughout the day eat well and at regular times
4. regular exercise will help reduce stress and strengthen your body
5. get enough rest to increase mental focus and generate more energy
I’ve found in my practice that my clients start reporting colds about one to two weeks after school opens. These activities all enhance your immune systems and make you less susceptible to the colds and flu’s that will be circulating.
I use 2 different types of Chinese herbal formulas to prevent colds and flu. The first formula should be started in late Summer/Fall and be taken for two to three months. This will help protect you from catching colds. This formula is a Chinese traditional compound, called “Jade Wind-Screen” and is used for strengthening the immune system. It is very effective and has been in use for thousands of years.
The second formula I use is based on Yin Qiao Formula which I call “Prevent a Cold”. This formula can stop a cold from progressing into the lungs. It is used at the first signs of a cold such as sore throat, runny nose, slight fever or chills and body aches. It is taken 3-4 times per day for several days to chase the cold away. If you wake in the early morning with a scratchy throat or runny nose start taking the herbs and monitor symptoms throughout the day while continuing to take the formula. If the symptoms go away stop the formula but be ready to start the formula again at the first signs of a cold coming back. You can do this for several days but if symptoms do progress to a full blown cold then a more individualized formula will be necessary. Whenever you take herbs pay attention to how it effects your digestion. If you have any digestive upset should discontinue the formula.
If you are worried about the H1N1 influenza virus that has been reported in the news the most important first step is being as healthy as you can. Using the Jade Wind-Screen formula will help as well as getting proper rest and nutrition. If you think you have come down with the flu you should also call your doctor.
Looking to find out how to use acupuncture and herbs to improve your health , then visit Susan’s website to find the best advice on colds and flu prevention.
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