Children, like adults can suffer from coughing attacks that can cause difficulty with sleeping and getting through activities during the day. There are some over-the-counter remedies for coughing, but these can sometimes contain harsh chemicals that you may not want your child exposed to. There are a number of home remedies that offer alternative choices for treating a child suffering with coughing attacks.
Honey
A 2007 study done by the Penn State University College of Medicine showed that giving a dose of buckwheat honey before bed can improve a child's sleep better than a dose of dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant that is found in some over-the-counter medications. Honey coats the child's throat and helps to soothe any irritation that might be causing the cough to begin. However, according to Columbia University, you should never give honey to infants younger than 1 years old because there is a risk of botulism.
Lemon with Salt
According to Columbia University, lemon has citroflavoniods which act as an anti-inflammatory to help reduce the problem of coughing. Columbia University adds that salt also helps to treat inflammation and irritations in the throat that can be caused by excessive coughing and lead to continued coughing attacks. To prepare this remedy, squeeze lemon juice out of a lemon wedge, and then add a sprinkle of salt to this before giving it to the child. The remedy can also be done as a gargle for older children who are coordinated enough to gargle.
Tea
According to Columbia University, linden tree flower tea helps to alleviate throat irritations and stop coughing attacks. The tea can have a very calming effect on children who are suffering from incessant coughing. You can purchase linden tree flower tea at your local health food store. In addition, chamomile tea can also be very useful in treating coughing in children. Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory effects and can relieve irritation that is causing coughing attacks. However, it is very important to not make the tea too hot because children can be easily burned by hot liquids.
