Everyone and their mamma is complaining about that phlegm stuck at the back of their throat these days. It Just Won't Move! This is an interesting phenomenon. It could be allergies. It could be exposure to more microbes as we doff our masks. It could be the spring wind messing with our qi.
Anyway here is something you can do about it.
OIL PULLING
What is 'oil pulling'? Take a tablespoon of oil and swish in your mouth for 10-15 minutes (might be hard for you 'mouth breathers' out there) and then spit it out.
Weird, right?
Why do 'oil pulling'? The lipids found within the oil attract bacteria and other loose particles from between your teeth. This same action stimulates the lower sinuses and upper respiratory system to release fluids and phlegm!
How do you do 'oil pulling'? Take a tablespoon of coconut, sesame or high quality olive oil and swish it in your mouth for up to 15 minutes. Take a look at the clock. Let your family members know that you can only communicate by pantomime, written word or dirty looks.
Even if your nose is a bit blocked you should try for as long as you can.
After spitting out the oil you must rinse your mouth 2-3 times with clean water and then drink a full glass of water. Afterwards you may have an urge to blow your nose and clear your throat.
WORDS OF CAUTION
~Do not swallow or gargle the oil. Try to keep it as far away from your throat as possible. The oil will soon contain all the bacteria and nastiness found in your mouth...so don't swallow that.
~Spit the oil into the garbage can - especially if you use coconut oil which solidifies in room temperature and colder. Spitting it down the sink can cause a clog in the plumbing.
~ Hock your luge (loogey?)! As a rule never swallow phlegm that comes into your mouth. I know it's really impolite, but this is material that your body doesn't want and can't digest. Swallowing it is a big chutzpah to your body that is trying to keep you healthy. So find some discreet way to spit that into a tissue.
Still feeling that phlegm? If you have been dealing with the phlegm for a long time, you may need something stronger like herbs or acupuncture. If this is something you've only had for a couple of days, keep oil pulling daily for the next 3 days and see how you are doing.
Esther Hornstein is a New York State licensed acupuncturist and diplomat in acupuncture.
In her Therapeutic Holistic approach, she addresses Pediatric ailments, Men & Women’s health, Pain management and overall Wellness.
Her private practice is in Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel.
To make an appointment you may:
Call or WhatsApp : 054-719-9600
e-mail : e0547199600@gmail.com