1 - Take Herbs - the Right Way
Echinacea is a powerful tool in fighting colds. As with all tools, it is only effective if you know the right way to use it. According to David Winston, a New Jersey based herbalist, a much higher dose than is printed on the product label is often needed. David recommends taking 3/4 teaspoon, 2-3 times per day as soon as you start feeling cold symptoms. It is important to continue this routine for at least a few days after your symptoms subside to ensure your cold doesn't return.
For another added boost - David suggests pairing echinacea with the herb amla (aka - Indian gooseberry). This is an adaptogen that will build your resistance to stressors. Take two 250 mg capsules twice daily during cold season.
For general health maintenance see our Cosmedix Balance containing 44 fruits and vegetables along with 67 amino acids and essential fatty acids.
2 - Put the Kettle On
Perhaps it's instinct that draws us to hot tea when we don't feel well. Whatever it is, it works. Hot tea moistens mucous membranes thereby bringing relief to cold symptoms. Green tea is especially powerful with its antioxidants known to kill or inhibit the growth of certain viruses. Studies have shown that drinking 3 cups of green tea per day is an effective method to fend off a cold.
For some tasty tea options, see our Pure Inventions Blueberry with White Tea or Pure Inventions Flavored Green Tea Extracts.
3 - Pop Some Probiotics
Probiotics are infamous for taming tummy troubles. However, they are also effective in lessening the length and severity of colds. Probiotics help stimulate white blood cells thereby strengthening your defenses against a cold. A study noted in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that taking probiotic supplements on a daily basis led to a major decrease in cold symptoms among a group of athletes. Suzanne Tang, a naturopathic doctor in Costa Mesa, California, recommends taking the refrigerated capsule form of probitic supplements containing 10 billion Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifodabacterium longum, and Bifidobacterium bifdum bacteria per day during cold season.
One source of probiotics can be found in our Cosmedix Restore designed to help improve immunity and nutrient absorption resulting in increase energy and healthy glowing skin.
4 - Don't Ditch Your Workout
Fight the urge to go into a state of complete inactivity. According to Tang, moderate exercise can enhance immunity and shorten the duration of a cold. As soon as you feel cold symptoms arising, adjust your exercise routine to 1/2 hour of moderate intensity exercise such as a brisk walk or bike ride. Tai Chi can also be a gentle yet effective method of warding off viral infections. Just be sure to not overdo it. Balance your routine with ample rest. Go to bed early and get your full 8 hours of sleep each night.
Check out our list of energy immunity and energy boosting exercises here.