Tips for Cold and Flu Season

We are about to enter cold and flu season, so here's some tips to keep you well this fall and winter.

Colds and flu often begin with temperature fluctuations during seasonal changes. The easiest things you can do to protect yourself is to make sure to stay warm when there are cold drafts or windy conditions. In Chinese Medicine, we say that cold winds weaken your system and make it more susceptible to catching something.

If you do get chilled, drink an herbal tea with fresh ginger and a dash of cayenne pepper in it. Then take a really hot shower and be sure not to get exposed to a chill again when your pores are open.

The difference between a cold and a flu
The flu is generally worse than the common cold, and symptoms are much more intense. Colds tend to develop gradually, while the flu tends to come on suddenly. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose and colds generally do not result in pneumonia or bacterial infections. Flu symptoms often include fever, chills, and body aches besides the upper respiratory symptoms.

Herbs make all the difference.
Herbs for colds and flu can be very effective at stopping something before it takes hold, or shortening the length of sickness if you don't catch it soon enough. Herbs can also minimize symptoms and are a great alternative to chemical/over-the-counter products.

These formulas are on "China's Top 14" herbal formulas list: 

1. Yin Chiao is probably the WORLD's best selling cold remedy! Take a double dose at the first sign of a drippy nose or tickle in the throat. You can also take it to prevent catching what people around you have, at work, at home, or even in crowds or on a plane.  
2. Gan Mao Ling is an anti-viral formula good for any stage of cold or flu, it helps with cough, sore throat, and all upper respiratory symptoms. 
3. Zong Gan Ling is for the flu with a fever and body aches; and can ease symptoms and shorten illness duration.

• Receive acupuncture and massage to stay balanced and to calm your nervous system
  
• Eat fresh, organic fruits and veg
  
• Supplement with Vitamin D3 and Vitamin C (use only whole-food based, not ascorbic acid or ester C)
  
• Take time to rest and getting quality sleep
  
• Exercise regularly
  
• Drink green vegetable juices and/or green smoothies several times a week