Wet Sock Treatment for the Common Cold and Sinus Congestion

The Wet Sock Treatment

Please, if you are suffering from a cold or flu here is a treatment prescribed by physicians at Bastyr Center for Natural Health that you absolutely must give a try. It may seem strange, but it is based on principles of hydrotherapy that have stood the test of time. It involves putting on ice-cold socks and … are you ready for this? … sleeping in them! The process rallies the body’s defenses.

This sort of treatment is known as a "heating compress,” meaning that it's up to the body to heat the cold, wet socks. The body reacts to the cold socks by increasing blood circulation to the head as well as the feet. It acts to reflexively increase the circulation in the head and it also can decrease congestion in the upper respiratory passages, sinuses, and throat.

The wet sock treatment also has a sedating action, and many patients report that they sleep much better during the treatment.

It’s best to start the wet sock treatment on the first day of an illness, ideally repeating it for three nights in a row if necessary.

Supplies:

·       1 pair of very thin socks, liner socks or polypropylene socks

·       1 pair of thick wool socks or thick polypropylene socks

·       2 sets of sweats or pajamas

·       1 bowl of ice water

Directions:

1.      Soak the pair of thin socks in the bowl of ice water. Then wring the socks out thoroughly so they do not drip.

2.      Take a hot bath for 5-10 minutes. This is very important for the effectiveness of the treatment. In fact, it could be harmful if your feet are not warmed first.

3.      Dry off feet and body with a dry towel.

4.      Place ice-cold wet socks on feet. Then cover with thick wool socks. Put on the first set of pajamas. Go directly to bed. Place the second set of pajamas next to the bed. Avoid getting chilled.

5.      Wear the socks overnight. During the night, you may wake up with your whole body wet from sweat. If so, change into the dry pajamas, but leave on the socks. You will find that the wet cotton socks will be dry in the morning and your airways noticeably improved.