Who hasn't experienced that nagging cough that can occur as a single symptom or in combination with other cold symptoms? How good it is then to be able to find a quick remedy. Here is one possibility from the field of naturopathy: Acupressure for coughs.
Finding the right acupressure points for coughs
First look for the last cervical vertebra on the back of the person suffering from a cough. This can be recognized by the fact that it protrudes slightly more at the end of the cervical spine than the neighbouring vertebrae. Three vertebrae are counted downwards from this vertebra. From this third thoracic vertebra, move both thumbs left and right about five centimetres outwards towards the shoulder blade until the thumbs sink into two hollows. At this point, press three to six times in quick succession.
Our video uses a hand puppet to demonstrate how to find the right acupressure points to relieve coughs and how to perform acupressure for coughs:
How often should acupressure be performed for coughs?
The acupressure described here can be performed six times a day if necessary.
Does acupressure also help with hoarseness?
Acupressure can also help with hoarseness. It doesn't matter whether the hoarseness is caused by a cold or overexertion of the voice.
Press with your index fingers to the left and right of the Adam's apple next to the windpipe. Then tap loosely down the throat to the protruding bones of the collarbone and press them lightly in a circular motion. This procedure should be repeated five to ten times with only short breaks .
Another helpful point is at the back of the head. To do this, move up the back of the head from the nape of the neck until you find a pressure-sensitive point at about eye level. There is also a supplementary point on the inside of the elbow, which can be massaged and pressed in light circles.
Even if acupressure helps with cold symptoms, we should not forget that our lifestyle and mindset also have a major influence on the development of illnesses and that a healthy and balanced lifestyle is a prerequisite for health and well-being.
Further reading:
Dr. F. Wagner, "Acupressure", (2017) GU Verlag ISBN-10:3833842237 - https://www.gu.de/produkte/koerper-geist-seele/alternativ-heilen/akupressur-wagner-2017/
Pharmacist Alexander Helm >
Alexander Helm is a licensed pharmacist (Martin Luther University) and founder of Casida. His vision is to combine pharmacy and naturopathy to create natural health products that use the power of nature to improve people's health.
Important note / Disclaimer:
As pharmacists, we share our pharmaceutical expertise and wealth of naturopathic experience in the Casida guide. An individual diagnosis and consultation is necessary in every case. Therefore, this offer cannot replace medical advice. It is not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for medication or other treatments prescribed by a doctor.
Acupressure for coughs & hoarseness
