Cough and cold remedies for babies

Common cold and cough is a condition that affects most babies many times in an year. Adults do not hesitate in taking over the counter (OTC) medicines for cold and cough, but the same does not hold true for babies. Several home remedies are found to be useful in helping a baby with cough and cold.

- Nasal saline drops are known to be effective in helping to thin down the mucous.

- A suction bulb can be used to relieve blocked nose of a baby. Toddler's can also be taught how to blow their nose.

- Drinking plenty of fluids always helps in cough and cold.Juices,soups,milk are all very soothing. However for babies below six months only breast milk or formula milk should be offered.

- Humidification of air using humidifier or steam from a hot water bath helps.

- Keeping an extra pillow or a towel under the babies neck while sleeping helps in preventing a disturbed sleep due to a blocked nose or constant coughing.

- Carom seeds (ajwain) can be boiled in water and after cooling down the same water can be given(2-3 spoons) to the baby . Even carom seeds which are slightly roasted and then tied in a small cloth can be kept next to the baby while sleeping. It's aroma is known to help in relieving congestion.

- Turmeric is also known to be very effective in cold and cough. Turmeric mixed with milk or Turmeric with little honey can be given to the child.

- Honey is also known to be soothing to the throat. But honey should not be given to a child who is less then one year.

- Certain food items like ginger and garlic are also known to be effective in treating cold and cough.