Do you remember when you were growing up, your mother would make sure you wore a scarf around your neck when it was cold outside? In Chinese medicine, the point that protects you from External Wind is the Gallbladder 20 and is located by going from the bottom of your ear straight to the base of your skull at the hairline (where your scarf would be).  External Wind refers to cold, flu, allergies, and anything outside of the body that will affect the immune system. In ancient China, this point was named after the moat around the city and represents where all sickness enters the body. Keeping this point open is a great preventative method to avoid sickness.

Humans are always changing just like the seasons. Every month the body is renewed. The drastic shift from the hot summer to the cool fall and winter months can happen too quickly for the immune system to adjust.  Keeping our basketball of energy strong with a good diet, exercise and meditation forms a strong foundation. During this time, it is especially important to eat and drink warm foods and liquids.

The most beneficial formula to take during this time is Gui Zhi Wan which clears wind and is warming.  Bringing the warmth into our core enhances our protection from cold and flu. Gui Zhi Wan brings harmony between the nutritive and protective Qi.  

"The protective Qi (associated with Yang) guards the exterior, and the nutritive Qi (associated with Yin) nourishes and stabilizes the interior."

(D. Bensky and R. Barolet. Chinese Herbal Medicine Formulas and Strategies. 1990.)

The most effective way to take Gui Zhi Wan is to take two capsules and open them up in a cup. Add hot water and stir to make tea.  Smell, sip, enjoy life and remember that mothers always know best!