A problem of dryness

For late-fall/early-winter allergy sufferers, or anyone who catches a cold this time of year, the problem can feel very wet. Lots and lots of snot and phlegm.

But, more often than not, upper respiratory issues in this season are a problem of dryness.

The outside environment has turned dry and cold, while inside buildings, central heating dries things out further. In the body, the fluid pathways dry out. Fluids become stickier and can’t move smoothly through the body anymore, and so pockets of accumulation form, especially in the head and chest. From there they pour out or obstruct.

The way to be sure it's a dryness problem is to check lips, skin, and hair. If these areas feel dry, bingo.

Zyrtec, Sudafed, and other similar medications make the problem worse by drying things out more. Don’t do it.

Here's a few dryness-specific remedies we use in our home:

1. Use a humidifier for the season.

2. Do a sinus steam 2-3 times a day (be careful not to lose more fluids in the process through sweating).

3. Poach a pear - sliced down the middle and de-seeded - in a cup of water until soft. Eat the pear and drink the water while warm. Do this 1-2 times a day. Add a couple pieces of rock sugar or a few goji berries to the pot if you’ve been sick for a while (or often).