The rain has been falling steadily, and autumn has officially arrived in Seattle.  In Chinese Medicine, autumn is the time to let go.  It’s an introspective time as we adjust to the energy of nature turning inward towards the earth.  It’s a good time to think about things that are unresolved in our lives and what we’ve been holding on to.  In Chinese medicine, autumn is associated with the organ of the lung, and with each breath, we have an opportunity to let go of something that no longer serves us.  The autumn season also brings about many changes.  Leaves have started to fall at an accelerated rate, the sweaters have come out for the cold season, and it was one of the wettest Octobers ever recorded with over 10 inches of rainfall!  You may have already noticed people coughing and sneezing around you.  Yes, the flu season has arrived early in Seattle this year.

There’s a wonderful little inexpensive Chinese herbal formula called Gan Mao Ling that should be on everyone’s shelf as a first line of defense for a cold and flu.  It’s an herbal blend made of up of several herbs including chrysanthemum flower, honeysuckle flower and mint leaf.  It’s safe for both adults and children over four years of age.  It can be used as a preventative during the flu season as well as when you start to feel the symptoms of a cold or flu coming on; chills, fever, headache, red eyes, sore throat, nasal discharge, cough, and general muscle aches associated with cold or flu.

I have Gan Mao Ling available for sale in my office.  I’m happy to give you more information about this potent formula at your next appointment.  Please feel free to ask any additional questions about other herbal blends to keep on hand during this upcoming cold and flu season.