Wet socks is a home remedy I often recommend to patients who come in with acute colds/flus and upper respiratory infections.  This treatment is a great way increase circulation in your body and is best if repeated for three nights in a row.

Indications:  Sore throat or any inflammation or infection of the throat, neck pain, ear infections, headaches, migraines, nasal congestion, upper respiratory infections, coughs, and sinus infections.

Supplies:

• 1 pair of thin white cotton socks
• 1 pair thick wool socks
• Towel
• Ice
• Water
• Warm bath or warm foot bath

Directions:

1. If your feet are cold, warm your feet first.  This is very important as the treatment will not be as effective and could be harmful if your feet are not warmed first.  Warming can be accomplished by soaking your feet in warm water or taking a warm bath for at least 5-10 minutes.
2. Dry off feet and body with a dry towel.
3. Take a pair of thin cotton socks and soak them completely with ice cold water.  Be sure to wring the socks out thoroughly so they do not drip.
4. Place cold wet socks on feet.  Cover with thick wool socks.  Go directly to bed.  Avoid getting chilled.
5. Keep the socks on overnight.  You will find that the wet cotton socks will be dry in the morning.

Effects of the Wet Sock Treatment:  This treatment acts to reflexively increase the circulation and decrease congestion in the upper respiratory passages, head, and throat.  It has a sedating action and many patients report that they sleep much better during the treatment.  This treatment is also effective for pain relief and increases the healing response during acute infections.