Magic Wet Socks for Cold and Flu?

In Naturopathy we are taught a theory that if you slip on cold, wet socks before bed on a night where you feel you may be coming down with a cold or flu that you will stimulate your immune system and BAM!  No more cold and flu!

Sounds nutsy, but according to Jamey Wallace, ND, Clinic Medical Director at Bastyr Center for Natural Health.

               ''The treatment is known as a “heating compress,” meaning that it’s up to the body to heat the cold, wet socks, says Dr. Wallace. The body reacts to the cold socks by increasing blood circulation, which also stimulates the immune system. You have to ‘rev up’ the immune system, so it’s ready for battle against the affliction or condition. This treatment acts to reflexively increase the circulation and decrease congestion in the upper respiratory passages, head and throat. It also has a sedating action, and many patients report that they sleep much better during the treatment. The treatment is also effective for pain relief and increases the healing response during acute infections.''

​When I was studying Naturopathic Hydrotherapy we had to try this; which I was sure would be a gross feeling remedy.  True to my nature I was very doubtful it would work.  Seeing as I was not sick at the time, nor did I have a lab at my beck and call, I have no way of being a 100% sure that it does work on our immune system.
HOWEVER...oddly enough, it was not disgusting, or uncomfortable for that matter. 
After the experience we decided as a class that the name WET SOCK treatment was probably HORRIBLE marketing. 
So, time for a re-brand you soggy socks!

LUMBERJACK SOCKS
Cool and Cozy
​
​I can attest to you that my Lumberjack often has wet socks.
I know correlation does not imply causation, but the boy is as healthy as an ox!

​So what did I discover the night I had to try these sopping socks?
  I slept like a LOG (hehe, log, get it?)
AND when I woke up, the socks were dry!

​Seeing as this is a very inexpensive remedy (FREE!) and it helps with sleep, I would highly recommend you give it a try.  Won't hurt, might help.  Sounds good.

​I would also encourage you to consider the role that proper hydration, eating a diet of whole unprocessed foods and the use of targeted supplementation, such as optimizing vitamin D levels, have in keeping your immune system ready for the challenges it will face during cold and flu season.
​
​If these approaches fail, slip on your LUMBERJACK SOCKS

 It’s best to start the wet sock treatment on first day of an illness, ideally repeating it for three nights in a row.
Supplies: 
1 pair of very thin socks
1 pair of thick Lumberjack wool socks
2 sets of sweats or pajamas
1 bowl of ice water
Directions:  Soak the pair of thin socks in the bowl of ice water. Then wring the socks out thoroughly so they do not drip. 
Take a hot bath for 5-10 minutes. This is very important for the effectiveness of the treatment. In fact, it could be harmful if your feet are not warmed first. 
Dry off feet and body with a dry towel. 
Place ice-cold wet socks on feet.
Then cover with thick wool socks.
Put on the first set of pajamas.
Go directly to bed.
Place the second set of pajamas next to the bed.
Avoid getting chilled. 
Wear the socks overnight. During the night, you may wake up with your whole body wet from sweat. If so, change into the dry pajamas, but leave on the socks. You will find that the wet cotton socks will be dry in the morning. 

***I'm not a doctor and this information is for educational purposes only. A consultation with a naturopath is recommended for anyone who wishes to develop a  comprehensive immunity-boosting plan. If your symptoms persist or worsen,  please consult your primary care practitioner.