Natural Remedy to Relieve Congestion

Dr. Pete, November 2013

 

It's that time of year again and many of us will find ourselves facing a case of the sniffles and being out of commission for a while.  Your first inclination might be to reach for OTC medicines that promise to stop your suffering but I have a safer and more natural option. 

 

Warming sock treatments are an effective method to draw heat, moisture and congestion away from the upper part of the body, where it is in abundance.

 

Here's how it works:

Step 1: Find a pair of cotton socks (Polyester blends don't work as well because they retain less water).

Step 2: Find a pair of wool socks.

Step 3: Saturate the foot portion of the cotton socks ONLY with very cold water.  Squeeze out excess water but avoid heavy wringing to ensure enough water remains in the socks.

Step 4: Bring the wet socks to bed.  It is important not to walk around with them on.  Sitting on your bed, put on the wet cotton socks (brace yourself) and cover immediately with the wool socks.  It may feel odd at first but you will soon acclimatize.

Step 5: Quickly put your feet and body under the sheets and blankets to ensure you remain warm and don't chill yourself too much.

Step 6: Sleep well :)

 

Once the socks have dried (usually takes a few hours) the treatment is done.  It can be repeated throughout the day or night and works great!