Our little ones face more toxins and unknown chemicals than ever before. There are chemicals in our food, water, packaging, the environment—everywhere. With all the unknown factors leering at you in the medicine aisle, it can be even more daunting when they’re sick. And according to the FDA, over-the-counter cough and cold medicines are far too risky for tots. So what’s a parent of a sniffling kid to do?
7 Natural Remedies for Toddlers (Medicine Alternatives):
Warm Honey for a Cough Remedy
When the FDA started to question the safety of children’s cough medicine, Pennsylvania State College of Medicine was inspired to find an alternative solution for coughing toddlers everywhere. The study found that a small amount of honey before bedtime was more effective than a cough suppressant in alleviating symptoms. Please note: This yummy cough suppressant is not safe for children under one year because it can cause a rare form of food poisoning called infant botulism.
Chamomile Tea for Colicky Babies
Chamomile has powerful immune boosting properties, is helpful for a wide array of stomach problems, and works as a sleep aid. Put 2 ounces of room temperature, pre- steeped tea in a bottle for your colicky little one. They’ll be sleeping soundly in no time. Chamomile is often an ingredient in gripe water which is another helpful remedy for colic.
Duct Tape for Warts
Place a piece of duct tape over the wart (not too tight) and change it whenever it starts to curl and get dirty. In about four weeks, the wart will be gone. Dr. Dean Focht III of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital believes that duct tape works because the tape irritates the wart causing the immune system to attack the skin growth. Whatever the reason, this solution is far more convenient than multiple doctor appointments.
Cayenne Pepper to Stop Nose Bleeds
Cayenne pepper is a powerhouse of health benefits. It boosts metabolism, helps rid the body of bad cholesterol and also aids in digestion. If you put this powerful pepper on a damp cotton swab, you can use it to stop a nose bleed. Just dab the inside of the nostril that’s bleeding and they’ll be outside playing in no time.
Chewing Gum for Indigestion
Extra stomach acid (created by a big meal) can be pretty uncomfortable. Give you child (age 4 and up) a piece of chewing gum to neutralize the acid.
Ginger for Car Sickness
If hitting the road makes your kids car sick, try sipping on a cup of ginger tea right before departure. Sweeten the tea up with lemon juice and honey.
Oatmeal for Itchy Skin
Yes, this yummy breakfast can also relieve a long list of skin irritations. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties and can help your kid conquer hives, eczema, and rashes. Just mix uncooked oats with water and make a paste.
Post by Jaelithe who is a health food enthusiast who can usually be found writing about the art of living well with powerful natural remedies for Blessed Herbs.
You may also be interested in reading about essential oils for many natural remedies.