Feeling Cold and Under the Weather?

Here in my home state the weather had started to feel deep in autumn; pretty cold and rainy. Honestly, it's quite drizzly and dreary, but I like it. This is my favorite time of year; when things turn cold and it's time for some internal reflections.

When the weather drops in your area, how does it make you feel?

Unfortunately, this weather can sometimes cause our bodies to react negatively. With the weather drop fairly sudden, my system went into shock. I woke up this morning full of nasal congestion, sneezing fits, and a runny nose. My poor nose already needs a break; so natural medicine here we come!

First thing I recommend would be to take a hot steam shower or a steamy bubble bath. I would leave the door closed to trap the steam and add a few drops of essential oils to the bath or hang dried herbs in the shower. The fragrant herbs should help to relieve some congestion, especially if you pick the right herbs.

Which Herbs to use for inhalation to relieve sinuses: Eucalyptus is great for opening up your sinuses, relieve cold symptoms such as congestion pressure, and aiding in relaxation. Best used at room temperature, heating up eucalyptus and tea tree oils can make them very strong. Tea tree oil will also help to relieve nasal congestion from mucus and also help to alleviate inflammation from the nasal passages. Cinnamon contains antibacterial properties so it may help to relieve some unknown irritants. Lavender has been known help reduce the pain and swelling associated with sinuses, and of course is super relaxing.

Speaking of inhalations, I do recommend running a humidifier. It will help to put moisture back in the air and help to relive some coughing. Again, this is another place to incorporate herbs or oils in the air.

After the nice relaxing bath, try to remember to stay hydrated during this time. You need to make sure to take in liquids such as water, teas, fruit juices, and broths. I do recommend warm beverages to loosen the mucus for movement and also for warm comfort.

Mucus Relief Tea

This tea is intended to give the sipper some relief from mucus build up, nasal/chest congestion, sneezes and runny nose, cold chills and aches. This muscus relief elixir is made with cold relieving ingredients such as ginger, thyme, rosemary, and garlic; added in black pepper and cayenne pepper for additional phlegm expelling; and then the warming spices of cinnamon and allspice.

Sweetening with local honey is recommended for taste; also local honey is great for lessening allergens.

~ Another two great options for nasal congestion is face massages and warm compresses. For the face massages, gently rub the nasal passages, forehead, and cheeks. Gently rub your fingers along the bridge of the nose, move up to the forehead; then down and out towards the cheeks.. Focus your attention where you can feel the most pressure. Be sure to use light pressure; you are encouraging movement of mucus, not forcing it into a mold. Be nice to your face.

Then there is also the warm compress method, you can use this for chest or nasal congestion. Simply dampen a gentle towel and you may add essential oils but be careful as they will be hearted and much more intense. Then warm the towel in the microwave, usually less than 30 seconds depending on the size of your towel. Lay the compress over your nose or chest, allow it to sit for about 10 minutes or until the towel has cooled to the touch. You may repeat as many times as needed. However, if you added oils to the towel, you could get a headache from too much exposure. Please take that into considerations as we do not want you to feel worse.

~ Quick helpful tips

Sore throat - Steep rose petals in a cup of hot water, sweeten with local raw honey. This will help inflammation and soothe your throat. Honey is also great for a cough.

Cough - (mucus filled) drink all natural pineapple juice; the enzymes rid our bodies of the bacteria, dissolves mucus, and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe the cough.

Cough Soother shot (for intense cough, be warned it does not taste good) - mash together 1/8 tsp raw mashed onion and 1/8 tsp mashed raw garlic, and a pinch of salt. Combine with 1 tbsp raw local honey.

For swollen and irritated eyes, brew some chamomile tea and soak cotton pads. Wring out the excess tea and place over eyes. Lay back, relax, and wait 10 minutes. Remove cotton pads and your eyes should be refreshed.