6 More Tips on what do to during Cold/Flu Season!

6 More Tips for cold and flu season! 

1) Coconut Oil: Coconut Oil is antibacterial and antiviral (and antifungal)... so make sure you are getting in 3 tablespoons a day to keep your immune system healthy and happy!  It is also what Lori and I use as hand sanitizer because of its antimicrobial properties.  (And ps. antibacterial soaps kill off good and bad bacteria... sounds like something else?)  So lather your hands in coconut oil multiple times a day to keep the sickness away!

2) Tei Fu Essential Oil: This is something we use in a nasal spray but can also be used to help clear and open up sinuses... put a few drops on your fingers and rub under your cheek bones, above your eyebrows and even on your temples if you are getting headaches.  It helps to clear up sinuses and get you breathing better.  (It can be pretty strong so you can mix it with a little coconut oil before you rub it on your skin.)

3) Tei Fu/Silver Shield Nasal Spray: Using the same Tei Fu essential oil... click the link below for info on how to make an amazing nasal spray to open up your nasal passages and help you breath clear!

http://drcarolynmaxfield.blogspot.com/2013/06/allergies-use-this-great-nasal-spray.html

4) Don't take anything to break your fever... it does your body a disservice if you do.  I know having a fever is not the best feeling in the world, especially when your little one is screaming and in pain.  No one wants to watch their kids or loved ones suffer.  However fevers happen for a reason.  Your body naturally raises your body temperature to kill off invaders.  The higher temperatures make is unlivable for the bad guys and in turn kills them off.  Yes it may take a day or two however it is perfectly normal and healthy and should not be interfered with unless the temperature is above 102 (or honestly even higher).  Come in and get tested to see what you have so we can support the body naturally during this time but please do the best you can to not interfere with your bodies natural reaction... I know it is not comfortable at all (and pretty miserable) but your immune system will come out much stronger because of it. 

5) Make this terrible tonic.  Have it on hand when you are sick and drink as much as you can stand.  I actually don't mind the taste because there is honey in it (but my taste buds may be a bit skewed).  Try it and let me tell you it works! 

http://lindsayleighbentley.com/2012/09/17/terrible-tonic-my-favorite-cold-and-flu-remedy-and-prevention/  (Also this is a great blog to follow if you are looking for great info and tips to stay healthy and live and be well... just like the title of the blog.)

6) Get a lymphatic massage.  This helps to drain your sinuses and get the lymphatic tissue moving to help get you feeling better faster.  If the lymphatic system is stagnant (think of stagnant water in the pipes of your houses... not a good situation) things get backed up and infections brew.  The lymphatic system is a large network that plays a huge role in your immune system (when you get those pea sized painful nodules by your throat, neck or even armpits they are enlarged and fighting off invaders).  No matter what it is when you get sick the lymphatic system kicks into gear!

I give my patients simple lymphatic massages all the time that help clear head congestion, chest pressure and colds.  Some massage therapists can even do full body ones.  Let me know and I'll be glad to help get your lymph pumping and teach you a couple things to do at home!