Natural cough remedies can be made at home from herbs and foods. Homemade cough remedies do not have medicinal side effects such as drowsiness or drying of mucous membranes. Children frequently enjoy the sweet herbal taste of these homemade tonics and may even participate in making them. Parents should consult with their child's pediatrician before using any homemade cough remedy; in addition, a medical professional should be consulted if symptoms last more than 48 hours or are accompanied by fever.
Ginger, Honey and Cayenne Cough Syrup
Bonnie K. McMillen, R.N., from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, recommends a cough remedy for older children made from common kitchen ingredients. The recipe calls for 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper, 1/4 tsp. ground ginger, 1 tbsp. honey, 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar and 2 tbsp. water. The ingredients are blended together and taken by 1 tsp. at a time for children. McMillen states that the taste of this syrup is likely too strong for younger children. In addition, honey is not considered safe for infants under the age of one to consume. Parents should talk with their child's doctor before using this homemade cough syrup.
Eucalyptus Tea and Gargle
Eucalyptus is used in many commercial cough syrups and drops, but can also be used at home by placing dry herbs in hot water. The tea made by steeping the leaves can be drunk as a tea or used to gargle. Eucalyptus acts by loosening phlegm in the nose and lungs. The leaves should not be eaten, as they contain an oil that is too strong for many people's stomachs, especially children's.
Buckwheat Honey Syrup
The University of Rochester reports that buckwheat honey improves children's cough symptoms and allows children to sleep better as well. The honey is safe only for children over the age of one. One spoon of honey is the recommended dose, given 30 minutes before bedtime. The only side effect reported from using honey to treat children's coughs was increased hyperactivity. Parents should consult with their child's physician before using this home cough remedy.
