Here we are starting a New Year! We’ve celebrated, we’ve had fun, we’ve eaten way too much, and now it’s time to get back in shape, and fast.

This Post Holiday Edition follows on from the prior article about boosting your immune system and now focuses on how to get rid of the bugs and get back in shape

How to Recover from the Holidays: Immune Boosters versus Bug Busters

Tips from the Private Practice of Drs. Julian and Susan Lange, OMD, L.Ac, Doctors of Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture

If the after effects of the holidays have left you feeling sluggish and bloated, you’re not alone. Have you gained a few pounds or do you feel all bloated?

Lots of people have got colds and flu. This year colds seem to be leaving people feeling absolutely exhausted – unless they are following the right tips.

Studies have shown that after all those parties and watching TV, some people are actually very glad to get back to work and into a more normal routine. The holidays can be super stressful to our immune systems especially after all that sugar and alcohol.

Also, we might have had erratic sleep patterns, not enough rest, and family stress if kids are around for the holidays. No wonder you’re more susceptible to colds during this season.

So, back to wholesome eating, more rest to allow your immune system to catch up with itself, and funny movies!

In our last article we touched on some of the issues that affect the immune system. Do you remember that 70% -80% of our immune power comes from the digestive tract?

We also made an important clarification between Immune boosters and Bug Busters.

Immune Boosters and tonics have a very different affect on your body than the

Bug Busters which you would take when you actually have a cold or flu.

So what are these Bug Busters?

Internet Bug Busters

We looked on the internet and found a lot of home remedies recommended for colds and flu’s that are much too generalized, are ineffective and that can actually confuse your immune system. They don’t kill the bugs.

For example: salt gargles will dry you out. Do NOT use cooked cinnamon, or cooked ginger.

Astragalus and Schizandra are only okay as immune tonics; do not use them for bug busting.

Real Bug Busters:

Chinese Medicine includes a very sophisticated herbal system and a lot of research has been done in China on some of the following herbs:

• Lonicera
• Chrysanthemum – has anti-inflammatory and anti pyretic effects
• Andrographis
• Isatis for viral conditions
• Echinacea is best at the beginning of a cold
• Goldenseal is another good bug buster

There are many Chinese herbal formulas for various stages of the flu which a qualified Chinese Herbal Practitioner can help you with.

If you’re usually pretty healthy then try the simple formula Yin Chiao (honeysuckle and forsythia) at the beginning stages of a flu.

Remember a lot of the bug busters should be taken only for the short term as they can be harsh on the digestion.

Simple home remedies include: raw ginger, cinnamon twigs, raw scallions, raw garlic, all to be taken at the beginning of a cold and of course remember to help your digestion with high quality pre and probiotics.

You can go back to your immune boosters after your cold has ended and if you would like more simple tips and in depth information check out our FREE audio recording on How to Recover from the Holidays: Immune Boosters Versus Bug Busters at http://www.meridianholistic.com/holidayrecovery.html

The information contained in this article has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. All material provided by us is for educational purposes only. We always suggest that one seeks the advice of their physician, or other qualified healthcare provider, with any questions they may have regarding a medical condition or taking any diet, exercise, or other health program – especially with health challenges or a weak immune system