7 home remedies to cure cold and cough in children, from honey and tulsi to saline nasal drops, more

Health benefits of honey and tulsi concoction: An Ayurvedic remedy, many swear by this concoction of honey and tulsi (holy basil) to cure cough and cold naturally (Image: Canva) Why it works: Honey coats the throat and has antibacterial action while tulsi helps to clear mucus and has a soothing effect on the respiratory tract.

Cough and cold are prevalent childhood illnesses, mostly when the seasons shift or the child is surrounded by other children at school or daycare. While most cases are mild and will pass, it can be distressing for parents to see their child sneeze, have a stuffy nose or cough for long periods of time. Fortunately, there are many gentle, natural remedies to ease your child's discomfort and help them recover without much distress.

Explains Dr Ritu Malhotra, Noida-based pediatrician and integrative medicine advocate, "Young children have immature immune systems. Rather than forcing antibiotics for viral infections, it is more beneficial to support the child's body for healing with safe, proven remedies."

1. Keep them hydrated: Fluids such as water, broth-based soup, broth, and herbal teas have quite a bit of healing potential.

• Why it works: Fluids help with thinning mucus, soothing sore throats, and preventing dehydration. Warm liquids like homemade vegetable soup or lukewarm water with honey (for children older than 1 year) are all very soothing.
• Physician's tip: Have the child take small sips often instead of large amounts all at once.

2. Saline nasal drops: Easy, but super useful for resolving nasal congestion.

• Why does it work: Saline breaks up mucus, which help kids breathe better and get better sleep. It is completely safe and non-medicated.
• How to use: A couple of drops into each nostril, followed by suctioning with a bulb syringe for infants or blowing the nose on your older kids.

3. Elevate their head while sleeping: A slight elevation may help lessen coughing at night and make it easier to breathe

• How it works: Gravity prevents mucus from pooling in the nasal passages and throat, which is often what irritates the cough at night.
• Tips: Use an additional pillow for older children or slightly elevate the head end of the whole bed for toddlers.

4. Use honey and tulsi (Holy Basil): This is an Ayurvedic remedy that many swear by for cough and throat irritation.

• Why it works: Honey coats the throat and has antibacterial action while tulsi helps to clear mucus and has a soothing effect on the respiratory tract.
• Tip: Never give honey to a child less than 1 year due to the risk of infant botulism.

5. Steam inhalation or warm showers:  The moisture in the air can help relieve congestion and help take deep breaths.

• Why it works: The steam loosens the mucus and it soothes inflamed nasal tissue.
• How to do it: You can keep your child in a steamy bathroom, allow them to breathe while warm or place a humidifier in their room. In a humidifier, you can even add a drop of eucalyptus oil (for kids greater than 2 years).

6. Natural chest rubs: Mild chest rubs using natural oils can help relieve coughs and chest tightness.

• Why it works: Camphor, eucalyptus, menthol are key ingredients in rubs because of their soothing effect and how they help open up nasal passages.
• Tip: When selecting a natural chest rub, choose the ones that are child-safe and age-appropriate, and apply to your child's chest and back.

7. Rest and comfort: Do not disregard how effective getting good rest is in healing.

• Why it works: High-quality rest allows the body to place all energy spent fighting off infection. Keep your child cozy and comfortable, provide cuddles, and reduce screen time while recuperating.

Most childhood colds with proper care tend to resolve in 5-7 days. Dr Malhotra adds, "Natural home remedies may help symptoms and naturally build your child's immunity over time." However, if your child's symptoms worsen or last for multiple days, always consult a paediatrician.