A relaxing cold bath can work wonders for a runny nose, cough and sore throat. But this heat isn’t always a good idea for your immune system and can actually make your condition worse.
In most cases, cold or cold baths are an excellent preventive measure to harden your body against possible viral attacks.
Reading tip
Even if you have mild cold symptoms such as headaches, sneezing fits or a scratchy throat, you are welcome to climb into the tub. The pleasant warmth stimulates blood circulation, supports your immune system and relaxes the muscles.
If you are sick, it is better to avoid it
However, caution is advised if you have existing illnesses or health problems.
If you suffer from asthma, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, or have problems with your veins, ask your doctor if a hot bath is a good idea for your body.
Reading tip
Even if you have already caught the flu and are suffering from a severe fever, cough or runny nose, the heat would only put additional strain on your immune system.
Since the hot water causes the blood vessels to dilate and lowers blood pressure, your circulatory system also suffers from the heat when it is weak.
If you go swimming with a bad cold, you risk your circulation collapsing. In the worst case scenario, you will faint and fall when you get out of the bathtub.
This is how you bathe properly
Even if you are in full health, you should always choose a water temperature that is comfortable for you and get out of the tub carefully.
It is generally recommended to keep your knees and shoulders above the water when taking a warm bath. In this “three-quarter tub” you can cool down a little at the same time and thereby protect your body.
If you have circulatory problems, don’t stay in the water for longer than ten minutes and even a compromised immune system can tolerate a maximum of 20 minutes of bathing time.
If you notice early on that the heat isn’t doing you any good, stop taking a bath and lie down in a warm, cozy bed instead.
Essential oils for the mucous membranes
Essential oils make your cold bath particularly effective. Especially if your respiratory tract is irritated, you should try the oils.
Together with the steam, eucalytus, sage, peppermint and mountain pine are good for your mucous membranes, help reduce swelling and have a disinfecting effect.
Important: Always test the oils on a small area of skin first so that you can rule out an allergic reaction.
You can either get ready Cold baths Buy one, or put together the bathroom yourself. To do this, put the herbs in a container and pour one liter of boiling water over them.
Let the whole thing steep for 15 to 20 minutes and remove the herbs. The rest goes into the bath water. To prevent your skin from drying out, use an additional tablespoon of olive oil.
After the soothing cold bath, lie in bed, drink lots of fresh tea and get a good night’s sleep.
Reading tips
