Coughing can be an uncomfortable symptom of colds or influenza that can make your child miserable. While over-the-counter medicines should not be given to children, there are numerous safe home remedies that can provide some relief from coughing.
Staying hydrated can help thin mucus secretions and soothe throat irritation, so be sure your child drinks plenty of fluids throughout the day. Pineapple juice contains an enzyme known as bromelain that acts as an expectorant to break up mucus and phlegm in their throats.
Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus Oil can be an excellent natural way to treat bronchitis and seasonal allergies. You can drench it into the air for aromatherapy treatments, or apply topically. Eucalyptus oil can be found at most health food stores as well as online.
Eucalptol, the main component of eucalyptus oil, can be an effective cough suppressant. It works on mucous membranes to decrease inflammation and loosen congestion so you can cough more easily. Furthermore, Eucalyptus oil boasts immune-enhancing properties to bolster your body against bacteria and viruses.
Eucalyptus oil should never be taken by mouth or used on children under 2. People suffering from asthma or other respiratory conditions should avoid it, while it could interact with medications including 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), an anticancer drug. Eucalyptus oil is toxic when taken internally and should never be applied directly to skin undiluted.
Garlic
Garlic contains antiviral, antibacterial and expectorant properties which may help soothe cough. Furthermore, garlic offers many nutritional benefits and can even boost immunity. You can consume garlic either directly from a clove or added into food such as soup, porridge and even yogurt for increased effectiveness.
Garlic contains sulfur compounds that enter the body through digestion and exert powerful biological effects, including relieving nauseous feelings, soothing cramps and relieving congestion caused by colds or coughs. Furthermore, its sulfur components also aid immunity against infections by helping fight infections more effectively than before.
Garlic and honey make for an effective natural remedy to relieve cough in children, with their antiviral and expectorant properties providing quick relief from cough. For best results, this remedy should be given to children over one year of age, adding apple cider vinegar or lemon juice as desired for additional flavoring or vitamin C-rich drinks that help to ease symptoms while strengthening immunity.
Ajwain seeds
Ajwain seeds can be found in every Indian household and serve as one of the best natural treatments for cough in children. Also referred to as bishop’s weed and ajowan caraway, these seeds offer numerous health advantages.
Ajowain seeds are harvested from an Apiaceae plant (Cuminum trachyspermum) and used both as a spice and medicine. Commonly found in Indian cuisine, Ajowain seeds can aid with both digestion and cramps as well as being rich in fibre and antioxidants.
Boiling water mixed with ajwain seeds and tulsi leaves is an effective treatment for cough and cold symptoms, relieving nasal congestion while relieving chest congestion. Furthermore, its thymol component has germicide and fungicide properties – perfect for cleaning wounds and treating infections. You can find this combination at most Indian food markets or online; just ensure to purchase fresh, whole seeds which you will later grind as required.
Holy basil or tulsi
Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is an integral component of Indian traditional medicine and considered sacred. As part of the mint family, this sacred herb offers many health benefits that make it an effective natural cure for cough and cold symptoms as well as being an immune-enhancing agent.
Tulsi contains powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Additionally, its composition includes pain-relieving terpenes such as eugenol and cineole which have pain relieving qualities. Due to these qualities it has proven particularly helpful in treating respiratory infections including asthma.
Drinking Tulsi juice on an empty stomach is an effective home remedy for coughs and colds. It strengthens immunity while balancing stomach pH levels. Furthermore, its diuretic property can help lower fever.