Warming Socks Treatment

It feels so good to be back at home in the Pacific Northwest. I spent 10 days this month traveling in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan visiting family and friends. During my trip, I got to talk a lot about acupuncture and naturopathic medicine as these therapies are not so common there. We’re really lucky to have a naturopathic school in Portland and have so much access to powerful, natural remedies. One of the treatments I found myself describing often was the Warming Sock Treatment.

I prescribe the Warming Sock Treatment or the Warming Throat Compress fairly often for common colds, head and/or chest colds, sinus infections, sore throat, insomnia or circulation problems and sometimes even as a tonifying treatment. For colds and flu, this treatment will often help me feel better in one night, although it is recommended to repeat the treatment several nights in a row for best results. This treatment increases circulation, bringing immune system cells into contact with infectious antigens and often increasing the body’s temperature to fight infection thermogenically.

When I feel the first signs of a cold coming on, I often do this treatment in conjunction with immune boosting herbs and vitamins and don’t end up getting sick. Try it the next time you’re feeling a seasonal bug and see how it works for you.

Warming Sock Treatment Instructions

1. Be Warm

You should be warm, dry and comfortable before doing this treatment. Some people take a warm shower or warm foot bath before starting their treatment. This is especially important if your feet feel cold or you tend to be chilly. A warm cup of tea, soup or broth will also help from the inside out.

2. Wet Cotton Socks

Wet a pair of thin cotton socks and wring out excess liquid. I suggest using anklets so that only the foot is wet or wetting only the foot portion of a longer sock. When you first start this treatment, you may like to use tepid water to wet the socks, but as you get used to it, you can use cooler water temperatures for a more intense experience. Put the damp socks on.

3. Dry Wool Socks

Put on a pair of wool socks over the damp cotton socks. Thick hiking socks of other fibers also work, but breathability is very important.

4. Go to Bed – Stay Warm

Put on your warm pajamas and get into bed. Use plenty of blankets so that you stay warm and do not get chilled during this treatment.

In the morning, you should note that your socks are dry and hopefully that you feel a bit better! If you have a sore throat from illness, exposure or even too much speaking, try this modification:

Warming Throat Compress

1. Be Warm
2. Dampen a bandanna – wrap around neck.
3. Wrap a dry scarf around neck, covering bandanna.
4. Go to bed – Stay Warm.

Feel free to share your experiences with the Warming Sock Treatment or Warming Throat Compress in the comments section!