Garlic Foot Poultice Instructions
The humble garlic foot poultice is an ideal alternative solution for those who simply can’t stomach raw garlic (especially children), but could use an antiviral, antifungal and antimicrobial boost.
I have used this with the whole family and can confidently say it works to shorten the recovery from cold virus.
Plus it’s simple, easy and can even be done whilst sleeping or watching tv.
Garlic History
Garlic has been used for thousands of years with written medicinal texts found in ancient Egypt from BC 1550, and was used as an antimicrobial during World Wars I and II; in fact it is still approved in a number of countries as an official medicine.
The active constituents of garlic have been found in studies to reduce the incidence of the common cold, hasten recovery from infection, and to reduce the incidence of acute viral infections of the respiratory tract.
Garlic has also been found to support recovery from long-covid.
What is a poultice?
The word “poultice” describes placing a soft moist mass, spread on cloth directly over the skin.
In this case, we will discuss the use of raw sliced garlic, with olive oil (to avoid the affect of garlic burning the delicate skin) directly onto the arches of the feet.
What you'll need
- 3-4 x Garlic Cloves
- 25mL Olive Oil
- Glad Wrap (Cling Film)
- Wash Cloth
- Old Socks (optional)
Method
Step 1:
Slice 1-2 cloves of garlic finely, and place in a dish with olive oil.
Step 2:
Apply the slices of garlic to the arch of the foot. Ideally 1 clove per foot.
Step 3:
Wrap the garlic in place by using glad wrap; a simple wrap or two around the feet is enough.
Place some old socks over the poultice to keep warmth in, and avoid any excess oil from leaking out.
Step 4:
Relax for 1 hour with your feet up – this will allow the garlic to absorb through your skin. Within ~ 20 minutes you should even be able to taste it as it circulates your body!
Step 5:
After 1 hour, remove the poultice and wipe the oil from your feet with a damp wash cloth.
Step 6:
Repeat steps 1 – 5 for another hour (this is ideal, how ever if you’re short on time, 1 application is better than none!).
Step 7:
Listen to your body; rest and keep hydrated.
Dependent on the severity of the infection, this garlic foot poultice technique can be done as a once off to help hasten recovery, or daily as required to support acute infections.
Note: Seek advice from your medical doctor if you are taking anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs, or if your symptoms get worse. Discontinue use of garlic 10 days prior to any surgery due to antiplatelet activity.
How we can help
We use Naturopathic principles and the highest quality practitioner only liquid herbs, probiotics, minerals and supplements to get your immune system the support it needs.
We also utilise Kinesiology to access your subconscious and explore energetic aspects related to your immune system. Together we will find out what your body most needs to support its own self-healing process.
Kinesiology can be utilised in person or virtually.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, or book in for a consultation when you feel ready to.
Yours in Health,
Sarah Claiden
