In the midst of a recent visit to Weiser, Idaho to see my mom and stepdad, I found myself facing an unexpected challenge: both my mom and I contracted COVID-19 from my stepdad, who was already infected by someone through their church. Truth be told, I felt the initial effects within a day, but the full brunt of the virus hit me a few days later, manifesting as a persistent dry cough, loss of taste, loss of smell, fever, and overwhelming fatigue.
In my quest for relief, I turned to an unconventional tool: a blue light LED device, typically used for acne treatment. Yes, you heard me correctly. This device employs photobiomodulation (PBM), a process where specific wavelengths of light penetrate the skin and interact with cellular components. PBM has been shown to stimulate mitochondrial activity, enhance ATP production, and promote cellular repair processes, much like how plants utilize sunlight for photosynthesis.
I decided to experiment with the LED device by positioning it near my mouth, ensuring that the light could also reach my nose and nasal passages too. The rationale behind this approach was to maximize the potential therapeutic effects of the light on the respiratory system. I even slept with the device in place, hoping to harness its benefits throughout the night.
To manage the chronic cough that accompanied my illness, I opted for a glass of red wine. COVID-19 is known to impair taste and smell, rendering any wine palatable, regardless of its flavor profile. While I typically enjoy sweeter wines, the virus dulled my senses, making it irrelevant during this period.
As I lay in bed, I experienced an unusual auditory phenomenon—a voice that seemed to whisper about hunger. It almost sounded demonic. While this may sound peculiar, I interpreted it as a prompt to engage with my body and the virus itself. I spoke to the virus, urging it to leave and relocate, a practice that, while unconventional, felt empowering in the moment.
In addition to the LED therapy, I incorporated hot baths with Epsom salts, which are known for their muscle-relaxing properties and potential to alleviate discomfort. I also created a drink combining water, organic grapefruit including parts of the rind or peel, organic ground cayenne pepper, and Persian blue salt. Grapefruit contains compounds that may support immune function, while cayenne pepper is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. I did drink a shot which consisted of activated charcoal, organic apple cider vinegar, and Manuka honey which was also relatively helpful in a homeopathic sense.
Remarkably, within two days, I felt completely recovered from COVID-19. While I do not advocate for this approach as a universal solution—given the ongoing research and the lack of a definitive cure other than a rushed vaccine that works as a preventative solution—I found this to be modestly effective for my situation. As I write this blog post, I am grateful for my recovery and the lessons learned during this challenging experience. My sense of taste hasn’t returned yet.
On a serious note please pray for both my mom and stepdad. I’m worried about them both. My mom made a comment last year that she strongly believed if she would ever catch Covid she would die. I’m asking you, my amazing readers to pray for her.
Moreover, it is essential to remember that each individual’s response to illness is unique. I encourage everyone to listen to their bodies, consult healthcare professionals, and consider evidence-based treatments. Stay informed, stay safe, and take care of yourselves.
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