Natural Cold and Cough Remedies

When children are sick with a cold, they are often miserable and parents wonder what they can do to ease their discomfort. Most cold medicines sold in stores are not recommended for children so natural remedies offer an healthy alternative.

For Coughs and Sore Throats:

  • Offer honey. Coughing is a natural process the body uses to rid the airways of mucus therefore it is not wise to suppress coughing completely. However, the throat may become irritated through endless hacking. For children over the age of one, honey can be to soothe irritated throats. Dark honey may work best as it is higher in antioxidants.
  • Serve soup. Broth based soups help to soothe dry throats. Chicken soup has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Encourage liquids. Liquids help to thin out mucus and also comfort a raw throat. Lots of liquids also keep children hydrated.

For Stuffy or Runny Noses:

  • Squirt with saline. A small amount of saline solution squirted into the nose can help break up clogged mucus allowing children to blow it out more easily. It can also be suctioned out with a bulb.
  • Keep the air moist. Using a cool mist humidifier can help ease congestion. Also, when it is bath time get the room nice and steamy by running really hot water with the door closed before running your child's normal bath water.
  • Prop the head. At bedtime, give your child an extra pillow to keep his head elevated. This makes it easier for mucus to drain.

Resource:http://www.parents.com/health/cold-flu/cold/natural-cold-cough-remedies/