Monkey’s been sick with a bit of a cold these last few days. It started with me getting sick with a head cold that ended up in my chest. Because I have asthma, colds usually tend to linger around in my chest, so I’m still fighting off a bit of the cough. I thought Monkey was going to pull through with only a slightly stuffed nose, but two days ago he started coughing. I, of course — being the nervous first-time-mom that I am — called the doctor (naturopath) down the street the minute they opened and they were able to get him in right away. She checked him out and determined that he just has a bit of a cold and prescribed some homeopathic remedies, encouraged us to use a warm wash cloth on his chest to loosen the congestion, and lastly…prescribed the ‘warming sock treatment’.
Huh? We did a double take, too. Well, the doc went on to explain that the ‘warming sock treatment’ is something that’s been used for years and years, and seems to help clear up colds and bring down fevers.
What you need:
+ 1 pair of white cotton socks
+ 1 pair of thick wool socks (must be wool…could probably use a blend, but the majority must be wool)
+ Towel
+ Warm bath or warm foot soak
What to do:
+ Soak the cotton socks thoroughly in COLD water. Must be cold. Ring them out as much as possible so they do not drip.
+ Warm your feet. Do this by either taking a warm bath, or soaking them in warm water for a few minutes. Try to soak them for at least 5 minutes. Keep in mind your feet must be warm for this to work, otherwise the treatment won’t be as effective and may even be harmful.
+ Dry feet off with a towel.
+ Immediately put cold, wet socks over feet. Follow by putting wool socks over the wet socks.
+ Go straight to bed, cover up, and try to avoid getting chilled.
+ Leave the socks on overnight and they should be dry/warm in the morning!
Sounds crazy, I know. But, I figured it was worth a shot! Supposedly, the treatment helps to increase circulation and decrease congestion in the upper respiratory passages, head, and throat. It also helps you to sleep better. I was told that it’s most effective if used 3 days in a row. Last night was night two, and Monkey does seem to be feeling better! (But who knows if it’s the socks, or just the cold running it’s course.)
But won’t it be incredibly uncomfortable to sleep in wet socks? Well, Monkey didn’t seem to mind. But, he’s 4 months old…he can’t really tell me what he’s thinking. So, I decided to try the treatment on myself as well. I’m still a bit congested myself, so it couldn’t hurt right? I’ll admit, it was a bit annoying at first, but after a few minutes, you don’t even realize that your feet are wet and come morning…your feet are dry and warm.
And, what does Monkey think of his homeopathic remedy? He’s not the biggest fan. Check out this video:
Disclaimer: I am not a physician, so please…if you are sick, speak with your physician before trying the warming sock treatment.
February 9, 2012 
This entry was posted in baby, For The Body, Getting Personal, Health and Beauty, Monkey. Bookmark the permalink.
Hi and welcome! I'm Jenny - a green living new momma, adoring wife, and MSU fan.
Jenny, we’ve tried this method before with our sick monkeys and I’m never really sure if it makes any difference BUT it takes kid’s minds off the cold – at temporarily! I also rub “Vick’s Vapor Rub” and then put socks on for a cough. That works but don’t forget the socks or your sheets will look oily for a bit :)
PS I love your new site design. Well done!
Yep, I can definitely see it working as a means of distraction :) I do feel like it helped (or at least I’m telling myself that!)
Thanks for the compliments on the site! I’m loving it, too!
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