The common cold, also referred to as acute coryza, can occur several times a year in toddlers. The severity of the cold depends on the overall health of the child. The cold generally lasts three to 10 days and is caused by a virus. Symptoms include increased nasal secretions, sore throat, congestion and general body soreness. Several home remedies can aid in alleviating the symptoms of the common cold.
Step 1
Warm up 1 cup water. Slice one to two lemons and squeeze the juice into the water. Add a spoonful of honey. Stir and serve throughout the day. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which help's the body's immune system. The honey is soothing on sore throats.
Step 2
Boil 1 cup of water. Chop 2 tsp. of ginger into small pieces and put the pieces into the water. Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes. Strain, then add a spoonful of honey to sweeten. Give this to the child twice a day.
Step 3
Use a bulb syringe to clear the nasal passageways. Some toddlers will not have mastered the technique of blowing their nose and may need additional help. Place a few drops of warm water or saline into the nose to soften the mucus. Tip the child's head back. Place the tip of the syringe into nose and lightly squeeze. Use the syringe before meals.
Step 4
Create a natural vapor rub. Similar to commercial rubs, the rub creates a cooling sensation in the nose, giving the child the sensation they are breathing easier. In a double boiler, melt 1 cup of petroleum jelly on a low heat. Once the petroleum jelly is melted, add several drops of peppermint and eucalyptus oils. Once the rub has cooled, rub it on the child's chest.
Step 5
Gargle with salt water, if the child is older than four. Mix 1 tbsp. of salt in 1 cup of warm water. Stir well. Add a few drops of lemon juice for additional taste. Teach child how to hold water in her mouth, and to swish it around. Make sure the child understands the water should not be swallowed. Practice with plain water first.
Things You'll Need
- Lemons
- Honey
- Ginger
- Bulb syringe
- Saline drops
- Petroleum jelly
- Peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils
- Salt
