Fighting Cold or a Flu?

It seems we are deep into the season for all kinds of cold viruses.  We hear people sneeze and cough all around us. Either you had a cold or someone  you know had it.
Can acupuncture and herbs help?
And the answer is … yes!  As a matter of fact, a great body of knowledge of Oriental medicine is dedicated to fighting infectious and febrile diseases.
There are acupuncture points on your body that, when stimulated by needles or warmed by moxa, can effectively relieve nasal and sinus congestion, sore throat, headaches, cough and strengthen your immune system.
There are also very many herbal formulas that treat  respiratory diseases in various stages, from common cold with nasal congestion, to pneumonia.

But, there are also things in your kitchen cabinets that can be very helpful. Here is a simple remedy:
Ingredients
1/2 inch of  fresh ginger, cut into small pieces
1 piece of cinnamon bark or 1/2 tsp of cinnamon powder
1 quarter of a small lemon
1 tsp of honey
10 oz of water
Bring water to a boil and add all of the ingredients. Steep at lower temperature for 20 minutes. When done, let is stay for 5-10 minutes, then strain the liquid. Drink slowly.

Chicken soup is also very effective, especially if you add garlic, onions, turmeric and black pepper.

Seasonal colds and flu may be also prevented  by taking herbal formulas and having acupuncture treatments in early Fall, before the start of the flu season.
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