Spring remedy for the common cold

The following remedy comes from "Food for the Seasons", my favourite book on Traditional Chinese Medicine. It's a great book for both practitioners and patients, easy to read with effective recipes that are easy to make.

When a cold is just starting, it's possible - on the first day - to stop it in its tracks before it gains strength.

3 spring onions, white parts only,
2 slices ginger, 20-cent piece size
2 sprigs mint, or 1 teaspoon dried mint

Finely chop the spring onions and ginger then add both to a saucepan with 1 and 1/2 cups boiling water. Simmer on medium heat for 5 mins then add the mint and continue to simmer for 2 mins. Drink as soon as it's cool enough. Then hop into bed covering yourself warmly to induce sweating. Continue sweating for 5-10 mins, then dry yourself off and put on dry clothes. Take it easy for the rest of the day. Be gentle with yourself for the next few days, including eating well and getting enough sleep.

"Food for the Seasons" by Prof. Wong and Kath Knapsey is available in store at Alchemy in Bellingen or online direct from the publisher at rdog.com.au

New growth in Spring

The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine is the 'Bible' of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and was written about 2500 years ago. There have been some important improvements in the field of TCM since then but most of the concepts and applications contained within the book still hold true today. So what did the Yellow Emperor have to say about creating and sustaining good health during the season of Spring?
"The three months of Spring bring about the revitalization of all things in nature. During this season it is advisable to go to bed early. Wake up early also and go walking in order to absorb the fresh, invigorating energy. Since Spring is when everything begins anew and rejuvenates, one should attempt to correspond to it directly by being open and unsuppressed, both physically and emotionally."
"On the physical level it is a good time to exercise more frequently and wear loose fitting clothing. This is the time to do stretching exercises to loosen up the tendons and muscles. Spring is a time when people are more prone to indulging in frustration, anger, depression and sadness, all of which can impair the function of the central nervous system, liver and gall bladder. Therefore, now is the time to develop the easy going and carefree aspect of your character." (See previous post for advice on developing new good habits)
By following the Yellow Emperor's advice you should feel more relaxed, happy and ready to dive into new projects and opportunities. Of couse you could just ignore the advice and take a chance on being stressed, grumpy and fearful of change but there are just too many beautiful flowers in bloom right now, so go for a walk and start sniffing!