Wet Sock Therapy
Wet sock therapy (which is commonly prescribed by physicians at Bastyr Center for Natural Health) is used to stimulate the immune system and increase blood circulation. It may sound strange, but it works because it rallies the body’s defenses, according to Jamey Wallace, ND.
It's best to use the wet sock treatment on the first day of symptoms and continue treatment for a few nights in a row. This natural remedy can be used as a replacement for fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen or NSAIDS. Artificially bringing down your child's fever can actually increase your child's chances of getting a secondary infection. It's also important to note that frequent use of acetaminophen in children has been linked to an increased risk of asthma and autoimmune disease.
Wet sock therapy is used in conjunction with other modalities to treat inflammation, infection or soreness of the throat, headaches, migraines, nasal congestion, upper respiratory infections, coughs, bronchitis and sinus infections.
Wet sock therapy
Supplies:
1 pair of very thin socks
1 pair of thick wool socks
1 bowl of ice water
Directions:
Soak the pair of thin socks in a bowl of ice water. Wring socks out thoroughly.
Soak feet for 5-10 minutes in hot water.
Dry off feet with a dry towel.
Place ice-cold wet socks on feet. Then cover with thick wool socks.
Wear the socks overnight. You will find that the wet cotton socks will be dry in the morning.
Please note: This information is for educational purposes only. Consultation with a licensed health care practitioner is recommended for anyone suffering from a health ailment.