My favorite immune boosting secret weapon is actually an old school hydrotherapy treatment called ‘The Warming Socks’ treatment. I learned about this treatment ages ago in naturopathic medical school. This treatment is utterly amazing at halting a cold in its tracks -by giving your immune system a boost. I recommend it all the time for folks, because it works wonders.
The warming socks treatment works best if it’s repeated for 3 nights in a row.
Supplies:
1 pair white cotton socks
1 pair thick wool socks
Towel
Warm bath or warm footbath
Directions:
•Warm feet first. Warming can be accomplished by soaking in warm water for 5-10 minutes or by taking a warm bath or shower.
•Take the pair of cotton socks and get them wet with cold water only up to the ankle of the sock. Be sure to wring the socks out thoroughly so that they do not drip. Place in the freezer for 3-5 minutes.
•Place cold wet socks on feet. Cover with thick dry wool socks. Go to bed. Avoid getting chilled.
•Keep the socks on overnight. The wet cotton socks will be dry in the morning.
Effects of the warming socks treatment:
This treatment works to decrease congestion in the upper respiratory passages, head and throat by reflexively increasing the circulation to the feet. It has a sedating action and many patients report that they sleep much better during the treatment. This treatment is also effective for pain relief and increases the healing response during acute infections. I find it also has a ‘grounding’ effect.