Home Remedies for Cough in Kids

Cough is one of the major reasons parents consult doctors for their children. Research pointed out that nearly 20.4% of children with acute respiratory illness had a cough four weeks later, marking the severity and prolonged effects of cough-related illnesses on children’s health. Parents desire to choose the easy way out by treating simple cough symptoms at home, especially as over-the-counter cough medicines are not recommended for children under six. Home remedies provide a safe and effective way to soothe coughs and keep kids comfortable.

This blog discusses home remedies for cough in kids that every parent can easily prepare. With these remedies, parents can help their kids have an unbothered sleep at night and unhindered days. 

Why Home Remedies are Ideal for Kids?

Most coughs in children are caused by the common cold, mild allergic reactions, or even minor irritation in the throat. Though they are not considered dangerous in any way, they have a negative effect on sleep and, at times, daily activity. Many parents seek cough remedies without medicine for kids as they do not want to cause side effects to their children and want effective relief.

Home remedies are easy to prepare, cost-effective, and use natural ingredients readily available in most households. They work by hydrating the throat, reducing irritation, and helping the body clear mucus. Additionally, these remedies foster a nurturing bond between parents and children as they are administered with care.

Effective Home Remedies for Kids' Cough

Every parent's heart aches when their child coughs through the night. While conventional medicine has its place, gentle home remedies often bring remarkable relief. The following are safe and effective natural remedies for kids' coughs that have comforted generations of children and helped worried parents rest easier.

1. Encourage Hydration for Natural Relief

Hydration is one of the most soothing throat remedies for toddlers. Fluids thin mucus, soothe the throat and prevent dehydration. Warm liquids like caffeine-free tea, broth, or lemon water provide comfort and reduce irritation.

For infants, increased breastfeeding or formula feeding ensures hydration. Toddlers and older children can enjoy warm drinks or clear soups to alleviate cough-related discomfort. Offering fluids frequently throughout the day ensures consistent relief.

2. Use a Humidifier or Vapor Therapy

Dry air can worsen coughs by irritating the throat. A cool-mist humidifier helps relieve this irritation by adding moisture to the air. Place the humidifier in your child's room, especially at night, to create a comfortable environment for rest.

Alternatively, warm steam therapy works well for older children. Let your child inhale vapours from a bowl of warm water or during a warm shower. Steam loosens mucus, makes it easier to expel, and calms irritated airways.

3. Use Honey as a Gentle Remedy

Honey is a time-tested remedy for children's coughs. It offers quick relief and a sweet taste that kids love. A spoonful of honey coats the throat, reduces irritation, and may even have antimicrobial properties.

For kids over one-year-old, give one teaspoon of honey before bed to ease nighttime coughing. For added benefits, mix honey with warm water and a squeeze of lemon. However, note that honey should not be given to children under one-year-old due to the risk of botulism.

4. Saltwater Gargles for Sore Throat Relief

Saltwater helps reduce inflammation, clears mucus, and relieves throat irritation. Thus, saltwater gargles are an effective sore throat relief tip for kids over the age of six.

All you need to do is mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Then, have your child gargle and spit it out without swallowing. This remedy works best when done 2-3 times a day.

5. Elevate Head While Sleeping

You can elevate your child's head by placing a pillow or pushing the mattress upwards. This practice allows mucus to drain instead of pooling in the throat, further reducing nighttime coughs. However, make sure that your child is comfortable and not straining their neck.

6. Saline Nasal Drops

When little ones can't blow their noses, saline drops paired with a nasal aspirator work wonders. Start by using saline drops or spray, tilt your child's head back and put 2-3 drops in each nostril. Let it sit for a minute to loosen the mucus. Then, use either a bulb syringe or tube aspirator to suction each nostril gently. 

For best results, try this routine about 15 minutes before feeding time. If using a bulb syringe, squeeze it first, insert it gently into one nostril, and slowly release to collect mucus. With a tube aspirator, place it against the nostril to create a seal and gently suction. Remember to clean your tools with warm, soapy water after each use. If your baby resists the aspirator, try using just saline drops and wipe the outer edges with a cotton swab.

7. Nasal Strips

Similar to those designed for adults, children's versions of nasal strips (small-sized) are believed to employ soft pressure on the nostrils, lift them and facilitate easier sleeping. This is one of the cough remedies for young children, as it makes breathing easy. 

There are no drug ingredients inside, and they are recommended for ages 5 and above. Simply apply the tapes as instructed on your child’s nose before sleep and remove them when they wake up.

8. Special Foods and Drinks

Keeping your sick child hydrated and nourished can be tricky, but it's crucial for faster recovery. Skip plain water if they resist it. Instead, offer fun alternatives like fruit smoothies or homemade juice popsicles. Cold treats such as pudding and frozen yoghurt feel soothing on a sore throat and are easier to swallow. 

Warm liquids work magic, too. One of the sore throat relief tips for kids is to give them chicken broth, mild chamomile tea, or simply warm water. Just make sure drinks are warm, not hot, to avoid irritating their throat. Keep portions small but frequent. 

9. Mentholated Rubs

Mentholated ointments, which include menthol and eucalyptus oils, are external substances that relieve cough and nasal blockage in children aged two years and older. When applied to the chest, these rubs create a cooling sensation that can temporarily relieve cough symptoms by stimulating cold receptors in the skin. 

The vapours released may also open up the airways, making breathing easier. It is important to follow label instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective use. These products should not be applied to broken skin or used in excessive amounts, which could lead to adverse effects.

10. Proper Rest

For kids, fighting an infection requires energy, which can wear out a baby, toddler, or child (and even adults). Rest is essential for healing, so extra sleep is normal and beneficial during illness.

If your baby is sleeping more than usual while sick, there’s no need to worry. Allowing them to go to bed earlier, sleep in longer, or take an extra nap can help them recover.

Also Read: Home Remedies for Dry Cough

Help Your Child Recover from Cough Naturally!

Natural remedies like honey, steam therapy, and hydration provide safe, effective relief for children's coughs. These easy home cough remedies for infants and older kids not only soothe symptoms but also strengthen the bond between you and your child.

Try these remedies today and help your child recover comfortably. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact a healthcare provider at Apollo Spectra for further guidance. Always prioritise your child's well-being and comfort.