All-Natural, Kid-Safe Soothers

By Amy Crelly

The American Academy of Pediatrics has declared over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold products ineffective for treating coughs and colds in children under 6, and FDA advisors have publicly warned parents of the potential for serious side-effects. So, besides the timeless standards (plenty of rest, lots of liquids and good nutrition), what's a mom to do when kids come down with a cold or flu? Try these remedies to relieve stuffy sinuses, soothe soar throats, and comfort coughs:

Honey
A study on child’s cough symptoms published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine compared using honey, traditional over-the-counter cough medicine, and doing nothing at all. Parents were asked about their children’s symptoms before and after treatment. While all of the three groups showed some improvement over time, honey came out on top, consistently rated the most effective remedy. Honey should never be given to children under age 12 months old (due to the risk of botulism), but for kids over 1, honey—served straight by the spoonful or generously stirred into tea—can be administered as often as kids’ throats want soothing (try a teaspoon every couple of hours to start).

Humidity
A cool-mist humidifier safely adds moisture to the air which, in turn, moistens nasal passages and helps thin some of the mucous in sinus passages. This makes it easier for your little cold sufferer to breathe and easier for the mucous to drain. In addition to acting like a decongestant in this way, humid air feels warmer than dry air, which can be a comfort in winter (and—bonus!—saves on heating bills). Just be sure to follow manufacturers’ directions when it comes to keeping your humidifier clean to avoid spreading bacteria, mold or mineral deposits into the air.

Salt Water Rinse
Researchers have shown that a saline nasal wash eases cold symptoms faster than standard nasal decongestants alone in kids ages 6 to 10. (Children in the saline nasal wash group used the nasal wash six times per day during the first two to three weeks, and three times per day during the remaining twelve weeks of the study.) What’s more, the saline rinse treatment seemed to prevent or slow recurrence of infection. How does it work? Health experts believe it washes away mucus and the germs trapped in it while moistening sinus membranes to help them stay resistant to infection.

While a traditional neti pot works fine for grown-up cold or allergy sufferers, saline nasal drops or spray misters are much easier to use with young children. Brands designed to make it easier include SinuCleanse® Kids Mist™ and Simply Saline Sterile Saline Nasal Mist for Baby.

Administering a nasal rinse several times daily to school-age kids is definitely more time-intensive than administering a quick slurp of cough medicine or having them pop pills. It's can also be pretty uncomfortable at first. But if it’s safer, more effective, and can prevent colds from coming back, it seems like time well-spent.