Winter is almost here! With this change in season we begin to welcome the colder weather. For some, this is the worst time of year. It feels as if the cold creeps in and settles into the bones. All the aches and pains appear and do not really seem to go away until late Spring with the warmer weather. 

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) we call this a Cold Invasion. The body is not as capable as it once was to hold onto the heat from the summer. Now, in preparation for deep winter, is a perfect time for taking Ginger Baths. Sheng Jiang (fresh ginger) is a warming herb to release the exterior Wind and Cold.

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How to Prepare your Ginger Bath

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What you need:

• 1 lb of fresh ginger

• 1 gallon of water

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Cooking Method:

1. Bring a gallon of water to a boil.

2. Add the cut chunks of ginger to the boiling water and cover with a lid.

3. Let it boil on Medium-High for 15 min or until the water is a golden yellow.

4. Draw your bath.

5. Strain out the chunks of ginger.

6. Drink one cup of the ginger tea.

7. Pour the rest into your bath water.

8. Enjoy your bath for 15-20 min. (note: Stop your bath if you feel dizzy, sick or your skin is having a reaction to the ginger).

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When you take a ginger bath, it is important only to stay in as long as you are comfortable. You should develop a mild sweat. Take water with you into the bath and drink plenty of water after the bath. It is very important to stay hydrated. You will continue to sweat for a while after your bath so wear loose comfortable clothing. If you have to go outside, make sure to bundle up and wear a scarf to protect your neck.

 

Some Contraindications to taking a Ginger Bath:

1. Pregnancy

2. You already sweat easily (you never want to lose too many body fluids)

3. You are hot in nature or feel warm (this will just add heat to your body)

4. You get lightheaded or have a tendency to faint. 

5. You have weak constitution or are already sick.

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If you have any questions about taking a Ginger bath or are wondering if a Ginger Bath is right for you, you can contact me via email tallgrassacupuncture@gmail.com , or by phone 918.861.0544.