Many of you are naturally natural, but I know some of you out there are like me, incredibly reliant on those precious over the counter cold meds that will help my babies sleep through the night. As of late though, I’m more confused than ever and downright scared to buy anything from the drug store for fear that within days of me giving it to my child a massive recall will hit the news.
As we all know there are no cures for the common cold, while not usually serious they are an un-welcomed guest that tend to always over stay their welcome.
So what do we do to ease the congestion, sniffles and coughs that seem to run rampant this time of year? Here are a few things to try:
Elevate: Keep your child or baby in a semi-upright position to help with nasal drainage. This can be done by raising one end of the mattress and placing a pillow or thick blanket UNDER the mattress. (Never put those in the crib with an infant)
Saline Drops: 2-3 drops in each nostril will help to loosen the dry or thick nasal secretions. Saline drops a very common and easy to find in grocery and drug stores. To save a little money try mixing: 1 level tsp. salt to 1 cup boiling water. Then Boil for 10 minutes, and cool. Use an old medicine dropper to administer the drops.
Cool Mist Humidifier: A humidifier will help to thin mucus and hopefully make it easier for your child to expel secretions.
Cough Remedy: For children old enough to have honey (at least 1 year of age or older,) try this homemade remedy of 2-3 tbsp of fresh lime, 1 tbsp honey mixed well. We’ve also been told that rubbing Vicks on their feet and covering them with socks works wonders.
Always remember lots of rest and plenty of liquids will help, and as always if symptoms persist contact your Dr.
Do you have any home remedies that work for you? We would love to hear them!
Angie, this article is really helpful! I think so many of us moms head straight for a product we believe will help our child get better faster! Crazy enough however, a lot of the medicines out there just mask the symptoms and although they may offer temporary relief, they aren’t helping to strengthen the body-bringing the child’s immunity back to a healthier place!
Believe it or not, my 3 and 5-year-olds love to drink hot tea, and adding honey or agave nectar, instead of sugar, makes it less bitter for them. Making sure my kids get enough rest and sleep during cold/flu season also can work as a huge preventative measure!