Raised from the cold

Excessive cold may cause problems in the body according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Internally, it may affect the stomach, intestines and uterus with issues such as pain, digestive and fertility problems. Externally, it is advised to ensure that the whole body including hands, arms, feet, knees, lower back, neck, throat, shoulders and head are warmly covered during cold weather. 

Apart from the weather cold may come from sitting on a stone-cold surface, keeping on cold wet clothes, living in a cool house, not wearing warm enough clothes, eating too many cold or raw foods, drinking too many unheated drinks or working in a cold environment. Cold may be alleviated by wearing warm clothes, exercise, drinking warm drinks, eating warmer foods such as root ginger, soups, stews etc and using some Western herbs, moxa and acupuncture. Chinese herbs, that I tried, did not suit my body however acupuncture did suit me. Spices may assist however I found some spices caused burning in my mouth or stomach e.g. cayenne pepper and chilli so I try to avoid these items.