8 Home Remedies For Cold and Cough In Infants

Newborns, especially infants, possess vulnerable immune systems that render them more prone to colds, coughs, and fevers as their defenses develop. When a baby’s nose becomes congested, not only does it hinder proper breathing, but it also leads to restlessness and fussiness during feeding. This situation can be distressing for new parents, causing them significant worry. Here are some tried-and-tested Indian home remedies for cold and cough in infants that are both effective and safe for alleviating colds and coughs in infants.

8 Indian home remedies for cold and cough in infants & babies:

At this time of the year, as the mercury dips, babies usually get cough and cold due to extreme weather conditions. Take a look at a few home remedies to cure cough in babies and other home remedies for a blocked nose.

1. Saline drops

To ease congestion, put 1-2 drops of saline water in the baby’s nose. Place your baby at rest with his chin slightly tilted up and slowly put the saline drops. To make saline water mix 1 tablespoon of salt in half a cup of water and bring this liquid to room temperature before using it. You can also use Nasoclear after consulting the pediatrician. This is one of the effective home remedies for nose block.

2. Steam and humidifier

Another effective home remedy for alleviating a congested nose is steam therapy coupled with a humidifier. Consider setting up a steamer in your baby’s room to provide a beneficial environment for easier breathing. Inhaling the steamed air can significantly aid in clearing nasal passages and promoting comfort. Additionally, incorporating a humidifier can further expedite congestion relief and contribute to the recovery process for baby coughs. Implementing these remedies can greatly enhance your baby’s respiratory ease and overall well-being.

3. Vapor Rub (6+ months onwards)

Gently rub vapor rub on the baby’s neck, back and chest before sleeping. This will help the baby to sleep better. We recommend that you consult your pediatrician before applying any chest rub on the baby.

4. Warm fluids

Keeping the baby well hydrated will flush out mucus and nasal secretions faster. Feed your baby breast milk or if your baby has started taking additional fluids, feed him/her warm chicken soup. An important point to keep in mind is to avoid outside dairy products such as cow’s milk (if the baby is between 0 -to- 6 months old) as they aid in mucous production. Therefore, it is suggested that you avoid feeding your little one cow’s milk till s/he has fully recovered. 

5. Plentiful rest and massage

Ensure that your baby rests enough so that he can utilize his body’s energy to fight off the symptoms of a common cold. We recommend that you massage your baby’s chest, back, and neck area with warm baby oil. It’s a natural home remedy which will relax your baby.

6. Cure with onion

An age-old remedy, onion serves as a natural decongestant, effectively alleviating nasal congestion. This traditional household solution for a stuffy nose involves gently rubbing onion or garlic in your hands before embracing your loved ones. This practice, deeply rooted in Indian home remedies, is believed to be highly effective, especially for children suffering from cold symptoms. The sulfur content in onions safely aids in relieving nasal congestion in infants.

7. Proper sleeping position

Keep the baby’s head in an elevated position by using a pillow so that he/she can breathe easily. You should also ensure to clean the baby’s nose from time to time.

8. Maintenance of hygiene

An unwell baby is already vulnerable hence always clean your hands properly before handling your baby. Keep your baby away from other sources of infection such as pets and sick people.

These Indian home remedies for cold and cough in infants can also be applied to adults. These have proven effective for babies and adults alike.

Hope this article was helpful. Please share in comments if you are aware of more natural and home remedies to cure cough and cold. Do not forget to like and share.

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