Echinacea And Acupuncture For Colds
December 15th, 2009
Taking an echinacea herbal product can reduce your chances of catching a cold by nearly 50 percent. Echinacea can also reduce a cold’s duration by 1-4 days. When echinacea is combined with vitamin C, cold incidence can be reduced by 80 percent.
With over 200 viruses capable of causing the common cold, echinacea can protect against the rhinovirus as well as have an effect against other viruses.
A collection of nine related plant species indigenous to North America, echinacea is the most commonly used nutraceutical, found in herbal products, foods and supplements. Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea pallida and are the most common species recognized for their medicinal values.
Echinacea products utilize different parts of the plant, including the root, stem and flower. The three components found in echinacea (alkamides, chicoric acid and polysaccharides) can promote immunostimulation, or an immune system boost.
Key points for a speedy recovery from a cold:
- Resting frees up your body’s energy and allows it to fight pathogens more effectively.
- Stay well hydrated. Avoid sugary drinks which can compromise your immune system.
- Eat bland, lightly salted foods rather than sugary or spicy foods.
- If symptoms persist, consult your acupuncture physician.
In addition to echinacea, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can effectively treat the common cold without the use of over-the-counter medications, which can cause drowsiness and fatigue.
For those who already have a cold and have not received acupuncture earlier, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can strengthen the immune system and reduce symptom discomfort.
Be certain to get regular acupuncture maintenance treatments at the changing of the seasons and especially during the flu season.
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are particularly effective for treating the common cold preventively and are especially suited to individuals who catch colds often. Acupuncture can aid in prevention of worsening of the cold if treated in its early stages.
For information about Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture for cold prevention and treatment call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500.
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