Natural treatment for cold & cough symptoms

Is your little one starting school or creche? As the seasons change and children start to spend more time together indoors, it’s inevitable that the ‘seasonal sniffles’ will strike. Coughs, colds, and sore throats often manifest around this time, meaning sleepless nights for all involved. For most children’s illnesses, parents will usually reach for ‘over the counter’ remedies, but medication is usually not recommended for children under the age of two years. Instead, here are some natural treatments for cold & cough symptoms.

Plenty of fluids

Keeping your little one hydrated helps to thin out mucus, making it easier to clear little noses and chests. If you are breast or bottle feeding, offer feeds frequently. For older babies and toddlers, give water and avoid juices or sweet drinks.

Clear the airways

Babies can’t blow their noses, so when they get stuffed up, it’s a real problem for them. You can help with this by investing in a bulb syringe to clear blockages from your baby’s nose so they can breathe easier. Use as often as needed and wash after every use.

Use a Salt Lamp

When it comes to managing coughs and colds, salt lamps can be a soothing and natural addition to your wellness arsenal. The soft glow emitted by salt lamps creates a calming ambiance that can help your little one to relax. When you’re unwell, a cosy and comforting environment can play a significant role in recovery. The ClevaPure™ Salt Lamp and Humidifier is a comforting nightlight, a humidifier and an aromatherapy diffuser all in one. It’s genuine Himalayan Salt Crystals cast a melatonin-friendly glow which helps to relax and invite sleep.

Humidify the room

In cooler weather, indoor heating can dry the air, which can irritate sore throats and increase coughing. Use a humidifier like the ClevaPure™ Salt Lamp and Humidifier to moisten the air in your little one’s nursery to help ease these symptoms and aid sleep. This added moisture can help soothe irritated nasal passages, reduce congestion, and ease dry throats, all of which are common symptoms of respiratory infections.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy, when practiced safely, can be a comforting way to manage the symptoms of coughs and colds. Adding a few drops of a gentle essential oil to your Salt Lamp can help to infuse the air with tiny atoms, which help to relax and improve breathing. However, it’s important to use essential oils with caution. For advice on which oils are suitable for babies and young children, read Baby Safe Essential Oils For Your ClevaPure Salt Lamp

Sleep

Rest is key to recovery when your little one is ill, so let them sleep, even if you are worried about disrupting their routine. Sleep is a great healer, and good for parents who are probably experiencing broken sleep too. So don’t feel guilty about curling up with your little one for a much-needed nap!

At night, turn on the ClevaPure™ Salt Lamp and Humidifier in your baby’s room. The comforting, melatonin-friendly glow cast by the lamp simulates sunset, which helps to trigger your baby’s body clock and signal that it’s time for sleep.

Steam

For a persistent cough or congestion, a steamy environment is a great natural treatment for cold and cough symptoms. Run the shower on hot with the door closed until the steam builds up, and sit with your child so they can breathe it in. Bring a book or toy in case they get bored or sing songs to pass the time. Do this before bed and it can help them sleep easier.

Loosen phlegm

Rubbing your child’s back gently can help to loosen any phlegm lodged in the lungs. For toddlers and young children, you can gently pat their back rhythmically to help the process.

Honey (for 12 months+)

Honey must NEVER be offered to children under a year old due to risk of botulism. However, if your child is over 12 months old, a spoonful of the sweet stuff has been known to help ease sore throats and coughs. Manuka honey may be most known for its antibacterial properties but really, any honey will work. If you know a local beekeeper or somewhere that sells local organic honey, try and buy a jar there. You will be supporting local business, and are getting it fresh and pure at source.

Healthy foods

The saying that you should ‘feed a cold’ may be true, but quality is always better than quantity. It can be an uphill struggle to get your little one to eat if they are unwell so try the ‘little and often’ approach and offer healthy foods as much as you can. If you are still breast/bottle feeding, you’re already doing a great job. For older children, try offering thin chicken soup. It’s easy to eat, hydrates, and can be pureed up with vegetables. Grandma knows best!

Be vigilant

Remember – colds and coughs can develop into more serious illnesses, so always be vigilant and check for feverishness, rashes, or other symptoms. Listen to your instincts and if you think your child needs a doctor, don’t wait. It’s always best to be sure, even if it turns out to be nothing serious at all.

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