Oh, The Common Cold

Despite the countless topics I could write to you about today, I’ve decided I’ll keep with the theme of the immune system which has found itself among the last few letters I’ve written.

Although the immune system is a complex system and topic to explore, today I’m zooming in on the common cold and the many variations it can take.

The “common cold” is something we can all understand, it is common afterall. Even those who take impeccable care of themselves- by managing stress levels, getting enough and quality sleep, eating nourishing foods, and tending to themselves however their system may prefer/need - know the common cold. No one is exempt from sickness entirely.

I don’t write on this subject to be negative or critical in any way, but rather I write to bring awareness to the topic. So let’s dive in…

A healthy functioning immune system is always on alert behind the scenes as it is constantly responding to pathogens and other signals of danger. The majority of the time when the immune system is alerted of a pathogen or other danger, we don’t even realize it. The immune system simply does its job and no symptoms or sickness unfold.

On occasion though, we are exposed to a pathogen or other danger that our immune system doesn’t yet know or have a memory of. In this case, we will likely have some symptoms of sickness while the immune system is working hard to eliminate the pathogen/danger. The sickness isn’t for nothing though, as the immune system will now have a memory of the pathogen/danger and will be able to respond much more quickly the next time, when or if there is a next time.

Now, this doesn’t mean that when you’re exposed to a new pathogen/danger that you’ll be completely wiped out and unable to carry on basic life tasks for days or weeks. Hopefully not!

And, it also doesn’t mean that we should be sick/symptomatic frequently.

Instead, once or twice per year when you do get sick you might have some drainage/congestion, a mild headache, a slight fever, a scratchy throat, and/or experience a bit of fatigue. It is just enough of a signal that we (ideally) slow down and rest but it doesn’t necessarily keep us from going to work or tending to our or our family’s basic needs.

Having a healthy functioning immune system is ideal, of course, but what happens if the immune system isn’t functioning optimally?

Generally speaking, I see two other ways in which the immune system might be operating:

1. Over-functioning

2. Under-functioning

In the case of an over-functioning immune system, the immune system is on high alert and is triggered by not only the pathogens and dangers we would expect it to be alerted by but also many common substances - anything from pollen, dander, foods, and even to some of our own cells or tissues. Allergies (environmental, food, etc.) and autoimmune conditions would be two examples of how an over-active immune system might present.

On the other hand, an under-functioning immune system is one that is dormant and isn’t performing its normal duties and functions. It allows pathogens and other dangers to enter at a greater rate and isn’t nearly as responsive. I most commonly see this present one of two ways: the person who very rarely gets sick or the person who experiences severe illnesses that tend to recur.

I will stop myself from diving any further for today but just know, getting 1 or 2 common colds each year is a good sign of an alert and active immune system.

*And * supporting the immune system when sickness does eventually come, is so very helpful! Here are a few of my personal herbal go-tos (especially for the head cold):

• Elderberry Tincture: all of elderberry’s immune support in a bottle I can keep in my pocket for frequent dosing when I feel sickness starting. Elderberry has a way of helping the immune system take defense while also decreasing the severity and length of sickness.

• Ginger & Jujube Tea (Simmer for 20 minutes): warming and slightly sweet tea that helps to keep hydrated while also supporting digestion and the immune system.

• Red Clover & Elderflower Tea (Steeped as long as you might like): a beautifully supportive and delicious combination aiding the lymphatic system (major player in the immune system) and the circulatory system.

• Herbal Facial Steams: bring a small pot of water to a simmer, add desired aromatic herbs, lid and let steep for about 10+ minutes. Using a towel, tent your head over the pot of water (trapping the steam in), breathe in the steam through your nose with your eyes closed. Have some tissues nearby ;) Experiment with which herbs work best for you/ your symptom pattern: rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano, star anise, etc.

Do you have your own list of personal go-tos when sickness makes an appearance? I would love to hear!

If you are feeling like you would like some guidance in your wellness journey - whether it is supporting your immune system or something different, I would be honored to partner with you 💜

~ Kara