Cough and cold are very common in children, especially during weather changes. Many parents favour gentle, natural treatments to medicines. Simple home remedies – like warm fluids, steam and rest – can be administered safely at home and are known to alleviate symptoms, allowing their natural healing.
Cough and cold are the common health issues faced by children, primarily during seasonal transitions. A child’s immune system is still developing hence they are more prone to getting infected by viruses and sudden changes in temperature. Although there are over-the-counter treatments, parents often choose gentle and natural solutions which are safe for their small children. They are home remedies that offer very effective relief from symptoms such as a cough, difficulty breathing, congestion, sore throat and minor fever without the concern of harmful side effects.
Simple home remedies with kitchen ingredients and traditional techniques can help children recover from the condition, says Dr. Rajiv Chhabra, Chief- Paediatric, Artemis Hospitals. “Use of practices (such as steam inhalation, warm fluids, honey (in children over a year old), and saline drops that people trust can alleviate regular breathing and help clear nasal passages,” he says.
Most children with a cough and cold can get better on their own at home naturally and comfortably, as long as they receive the right care, rest and home remedies.
Honey and Warm Water
For centuries, honey has been used as a cough medicine and a topical antibacterial agent. Try dissolving a teaspoon of honey in warm water or milk for your child — it will coat their throat and prevent them from coughing. But you shouldn’t feed honey to babies younger than 1 year old, even cooked honey, because it could cause a food poisoning called infant botulism.
Steam Inhalation
Steam can help loosen mucus and make it easier to breathe through your nose. Have your child inhale steam from a bowl of hot water for five to ten minutes. Even better, you can also mix in a couple of drops of camphor or eucalyptus oil. Always watch to avoid burns.
Warm Fluids
Teas, soups and turmeric milk are the types of warm drinks that can soothe a sore throat, keep our bodies warm, and prevent dehydration. Turmeric is particularly effective for reducing inflammation, in turn calming the throat and nasal passages.
Ginger and Tulsi Tea
Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that can soothe throat pain and tulsi boosts the immune system. Take a few leaves of tulsi and some grated ginger, boil it in water then strain the mixture and give it to your child warm. You may add honey to taste better (for children over one year).
Saline Nasal Drops
Children’s sleep and eating may be disrupted if their noses are blocked. A quick saline solution of warm water with salt can clear up a stuffy nose. You can purchase saline drops at the store or make your own by combining 1 teaspoon of salt with a cup of boiled, cooled water.
Humidifier or Vaporizer
Dry air can make coughing and congestion worse. Using a humidifier in your baby’s room will help keep the air moisturized and easier on the lungs. To prevent mold and bacteria from growing, clean the device frequently.
Turmeric Milk
People have been drinking turmeric milk for a very long time as it is healthy. Curcumin, the food compound that gives turmeric its bright colour, has antiviral and antibacterial properties. For better sleep and less inflammation for your child, let them drink a cup of milk with half a teaspoon of turmeric powder just before going to bed.
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Elevate the Head While Sleeping
If your child’s nose is stuffy, or if they have a cough that doesn’t ever seem to go away at bedtime, slipping an extra pillow beneath their head can elevate things slightly. This helps the air circulate while also reducing postnasal drip, which can prevent coughing fits.
Encourage Rest and Hydration
And sleep helps your immune system fight off infections. To help your child recover faster, “make sure they are drinking plenty of fluids — water, ideally warm water,” as well as coconut water, and that they are getting enough rest.
Not only do these Home Remedies make you feel better, they also help boost your immune system naturally. But if your child has a fever, difficulty breathing and a terrible cough that just keeps going for longer than a week? In that case you should consult a paediatrician immediately.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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