While I generally deal with holistic dermatology, I have lots of experience with integrative medicine as it relates to the immune system. During cold and flu season, I tend to avoid flu vaccine. So, over many years of working long hours in my practice, I have perfected my method for cold and flu prevention and care.
The moment I become aware of a lowered resistence–a sneeze, a tired feeling, an ache in my head or neck–is the moment a cold or flu can be prevented with a regimen of natural remedies. If I wait a bit and don’t catch the symptoms until several hours or a day after that moment, I may not be able to prevent the illness, but I can lessen its severity and duration.
Steps to take at the pivotal moment:
- stop whatever you’re doing. Take a nap if possible. If not, rest your eyes for a few minutes.
- take a very hot bath, and when you emerge from the tub, bundle yourself up, climb into bed, and let the body “sweat out the cold.” (Be sure not to do this alone, as hot water can increase chance of fainting)
- take healthy, regular doses of vitamins A, C, and E
- take some echinacea or oregon graperoot
- drink hot tea and keep the body full of fluids
Several hours of focused self-care at the right moment can prevent several days of illness, discomfort, and lost work–and it can keep you from spreading a cold or flu to loved ones.
To your health,
-Dr. Dattner
Holistic Dermatology & Integrative Medicine
New York
__
As always, the content of this blog is for information and education purposes only, and should not be used to diagnose or treat illness; please see your physician for care.
