Whether it’s due to the resilience of the virus or the new strains that keep popping up, Covid is still here and will probably never be completely stamped out. Viruses persist. Thankfully its rampant spread has diminished.

After providing some easy-to-follow advice for lessening symptoms with natural remedies using easy-to-obtain ingredients, I will go over some of the herbal formulas that can lessen duration and severity of symptoms.

Rinses and Rubs

For copious phlegm in the nasal sinuses and/or throat make a saline and baking soda rinse by combining 1 tsp baking soda with 3 tsp sea salt in 1 cup warm water.

Peppermint is used in TCM to open any orifice of the head meaning it can soothe irritated membranes of the nose, mouth and ears. Use peppermint essential oil in a base of coconut or almond oil to rub on the chest and combine with eucalytpus and lemon EO for a stronger effect. Drinking peppermint tea can aromatically steam the tissues and help release congestion.

For sore throat squeeze a lemon and combine with 2 tbsp honey and 1/2 cup water. Warm on stovetop and sip slowly.

Physical Movement

In order to keep the lungs vented and open it is important change positions throughout the day, especially since the lungs are affected by the virus. Studies show that recovery is hastened and aftermath of Covid is less scary if one practices sitting up, walking around and other mild forms of exercise.

In TCM we were taught that the lungs are in a weaker position if lying flat on the back, and this can make breathing more difficult if one is suffering any lung ailment. Propping oneself up with good support like a memory foam or buckwheat hull pillow is helpful. When you can get out of bed walk around and raise the arms up to shoulder height as this stimulates the lungs.

Qi gong exercises for the lung focus on improving the rate and quality of inspiratory and expiratory breathing. Search on YouTube for videos and you will find many to choose from; pick a favorite and practice twice a day.

Herbs for Hastening Recovery from Covid

There are several formulas that address the troublesome symptoms of Covid such as relentless coughing, stubborn phlegm and deep fatigue. If the correct formula is taken at the right time it can make a huge difference in recovery and post-Covid fallout. Herbs have the ability to penetrate into the tissues to bring quick relief without side effects of many over-the-counter remedies. Each formula is a blend of herbs with one or two principal players that foretells its utility. Like ligusticum, chuan xiong, an herb that eases stubborn and painful headaches that persist. For sore throat that is worse than that of a common cold a formula containing andographis, chuan xin lian, is a winner. If you would like to learn how herbs can help you more specifically, book a telehealth appointment or use the contact form for a free 15-minute check up.