When your child has a cold and develops a cough it is difficult to figure out what to do. I try not to give my kids any over the counter medication if possible so I am always looking for natural remedies. So I have put together a list of tips to try next time your child has a cough.
What is a barking cough?
Horseness / Barking Cough is a common respiratory problem in young children. It tends to occur in the fall and winter. It can cause swelling and narrowing in the voice box, windpipe, and breathing tubes that lead to the lungs.
In severe cases, a child might need corticosteroids to reduce inflammation especially if breathing is compromised.
Before symptoms get too bad, here are some natural remedies to try.
Increase clear fluids: Make sure you are giving your child plenty of clear fluids to help thin out and dispel the excess mucus. You can use water, broth or light soups. Cultured beverages such as Kevita will help to boost probiotic power for the immune system.
Humdifier: Try increasing the humidity in your child’s room. It will help reduce congestions and lessen the intensity of coughing. Diffusing essential oils known to promote lung function may also be helpful (see essential oils section below).
Detox bath: A warm bath with a few drops of a respiratory blend of essential oils will help soothe the body and the steam from the bath will also help thin out the mucus and reduce the intensity of the cough.
Chest massage with essential oils: Rubbing a child’s chest with an essential oil blend can help to ease tight muscles and promote healthy lung function. Essential oils for lung function include Frankincense, Lavender, Melaleuca, Rosemary, Lemon and Thyme depending on your child’s age and symptoms. I would also suggest making a 10 ml rollerball with 1 drop each of these oils and filling the rest of the bottle with carrier oil and then putting it on your child’s feet.
Cold outside air: I have not personally tried this one but I have heard from other people that bringing your child into cool air to breathe will help reduce coughing. But make sure your child is wrapped in a blanket to keep warm.
Sleep and rest: Make sure your child gets plenty of rest. Don’t bring your child to a park or shopping. Stay home and let your child rest so that they recover faster.
Homemade Cough Syrup: Get recipe here
Herbs and Supplements
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is used to boost immune function and may shorten the duration of viruses. I add a small amount of buffered vitamin C to my kid’s smoothies every morning to help them keep their immune system strong. The buffered C is best to reduce stomach irritation.
Probiotics: Probiotics may help to increase immune function. You can also get probiotics through fermented foods and beverages such as Kevita.
Elderberry syrup: This is a very helpful herb for immune system support. You can use it a few times a week during cold/flu season or daily when your child is sick.
Medical Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor and don’t play one on the internet. This post is not to be considered a replacement for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please always use your best judgement and seek the advice of your health professionals as needed.
Are you attracted to the idea of taking better care of yourself and feeling empowered with natural solutions at your fingertips at home? I am sure you have been hearing people talking about essential oils and maybe you have considered incorporating them into your own life but:
*You don’t know where to start
*You don’t know which ones to use
*You don’t know how to use them
Sound like you? Or maybe you already use essential oils but you are looking for a therapeutic grade of essential oils to tackle your family’s health concerns. Either way, I am here to help you! Steps to get started:
- Click on this link for a free e-book
- Watch my intro to Essential Oil Video
- Join my Public Education Group
- Choose a starter kit
- Get started!
I’d love to welcome you to my community of active essential oil members and to personally guide you on your journey. I offer optional phone consultations to go over your oils and how to use them for your needs. Or we can chat over email if you prefer. Either way, I want to help empower you to use your oils confidently and effectively!
Email Me – April@Essentialoilprincess.com