Here are some Home Remedies that may help ease your Child's Cough:
1. Honey (for children over 1 year old)
- How to use: Mix a teaspoon of honey with warm water or herbal tea. Honey can help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing at night.
- Note: Do not give honey to children under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism.
2. Warm fluids
- Examples: Warm water, chicken soup, or caffeine-free herbal teas.
- Why it helps: Warm liquids can soothe the throat, loosen mucus, and keep your child hydrated.
3. Steam inhalation
- How to use: Run a hot shower to create steam in the bathroom. Sit with your child in the steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes.
- Why it helps: Moist air can ease breathing and help loosen mucus.
4. Saltwater gargle (for older children)
- How to use: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Have your child gargle and spit it out.
- Why it helps: This can soothe throat irritation and reduce coughing.
5. Elevate the head during sleep
- How to use: Prop your child’s head up with an extra pillow.
- Why it helps: Elevation can reduce postnasal drip and night time coughing.
6. Ginger tea
- How to use: Boil a small piece of ginger in water, then strain and cool it. Add honey for flavour (if your child is over 1 year old).
- Why it helps: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe the throat and reduce coughing.
7. Avoid irritants
- Tips: Keep the air around your child free of smoke, strong odours, or allergens that might worsen the cough.
8. Use vapour rub
- How to use: Apply a small amount of mentholated vapour rub to your child’s chest or back (for children over 2 years old).
- Why it helps: It can help open airways and reduce night time coughing.
Author
Thanya N
Child wellness and Nutrition Consultant
Wellness Wayz
