As adults, we are pretty used to experiencing common cold symptoms throughout the year. But, when it comes to our children it’s easy to forget that cold symptoms that are a minor annoyance to us can be debilitating to such a little body. Depending on the age of the child, they may still be learning how to blow their nose completely, making a runny nose a serious problem for breathing. Most of the time, kids’ body functions are on autopilot so when they can’t do these processes automatically, simple body functions can become very difficult.

Luckily, there are several natural remedies for common colds that can be used to treat cold symptoms in kids. This may include doing nasal rinses, avoiding certain foods, increasing vitamin intake, and using essential oils. Take a look at our favorite natural remedies for treating cold symptoms in kids and how to use them effectively!

Nasal Rinsing

Because some kids have a hard time blowing their noses completely, nasal rinsing can be one of the best ways to provide cold relief. When done properly, a nasal rinse is a gentle way to clear the nasal passages of mucus and improve breathing. It can also reduce inflammation and rejuvenate irritated sinuses. In addition, it can actually shorten the length of the cold and prevent sinus infections.

You may have seen saline solutions in the store that can be used to flush the sinuses but did you know there is even a better way? A Neti Pot is a great tool that can be used to gently clear both sides of the nasal passages at the same time. At Baraka, we have a newly designed slim spout Neti Pot specifically designed to treat cold symptoms in kids.

For best results use only distilled or boiled water that has been cooled to room temperature and add the recommended amount of mineral sea salt or infused salt. Do not use salt that is not specifically designated as safe for nasal irrigation. Chemically altered salt such as table salt can cause additional irritation. While kids may experience some discomfort in the form of pressure when rinsing with a Neti Pot, there should be no burning or stinging sensation.

Our Neti Pots can hold 10 ounces of saline or mineral saltwater solution. Have your child lean over the sink tilted to the side. Tip half the solution into one nostril instructing them to breathe through their mouth. The solution should drain out the other side. Repeat on the opposite side with the remaining solution.

Avoid Mucus Inducing Foods

Did you know that certain foods can irritate your sinuses and actually make sinus problems worse? As soon as your child begins experiencing cold symptoms, you should avoid certain foods that are known to induce mucus creation.

The most common and detrimental food for sinus problems is dairy products, especially milk and cheese. Dairy products generate mucus in the nose and throat which cause fluid buildup that can create serious infections. In addition, it creates the perfect environment for microbial growth.

Other foods that can impact mucus production or cause congestion include tomatoes, gluten, chocolate, and bananas. While these foods are not necessary to avoid at all times, when your child has a cold they are known to accelerate bacterial growth and harm the mucus membranes causing inflammation and more severe cold symptoms.

Increase Vitamin Intake

For adults, it is important to maintain proper vitamin intake on a regular basis making it that much more important for children to do the same. Your child’s body is still developing so it is constantly using the fuel that is put into it. Vitamins go to generating energy and developing brain, muscle, and skeletal systems. When an infection of any kind happens, it drains the system depleting important vitamins needed for proper function and development.

To help your child naturally fight off cold symptoms, make sure they are getting the proper vitamins throughout the course of the cold so their body doesn’t have to work so hard. The main vitamin to consider is vitamin D, however, vitamin C can also play a role in developing immune-boosting cells. Orange, lemon, ginger, garlic, and turmeric are all high in vitamins and antioxidants that can help fight cold symptoms in kids and get them back to normal in no time.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are a great natural way to improve health and fight infection. For kids, you want to be sure that you are using essential oils that are safe for use. Because essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts, certain types can be detrimental to child health. However, when used appropriately, some essential oils can prove beneficial for clearing airways and proving cold relief.

To improve breathing using essential oils boil a pot of water and add a few drops of the desired oil while the water is still hot. Place a towel over your child’s head and have them lean over the hot water inhaling deeply through their nose. It will be hot so make sure they do not get too close. Do not have children ingest essential oils as they can be toxic to children. Also, be sure to check your facts before applying essential oils to the skin as they can cause severe irritation when undiluted, especially in children.

The best essential oils for kids include:

  • lavender
  • chamomile
  • basil
  • frankincense
  • sweet orange

Essential oils to avoid using on children include:

  • bay
  • cinnamon bark or leaf
  • clove bud or leaf
  • lemongrass
  • peppermint
  • thyme
  • camphor
  • parsley seed
  • hyssop
  • pennyroyal
  • tarragon
  • wintergreen
  • wormwood
  • eucalyptus
  • fennel
  • rosemary
  • verbena
  • wintergreen

Next time your child feels the sniffles coming on, you are sure to be prepared with these simple natural remedies for common cold symptoms in children. Keep your little one feeling happy and healthy by preparing today.