Recent scientific research clearly illustrates that cold medications are not the answer to relieving childhood cold symptoms.  Since the common cold is caused by a virus, antibiotics (which fight bacteria, not viruses) are not effective.  There are all-natural ways to provide your child relief without resorting to drugs.  Try these tactics instead:

1.  Maintain regular chiropractic check-ups. Numerous studies reveal that regular chiropractic care keeps a child’s immune system in optimal condition, making their bodies better equipped to fight off colds. Prevention is key!

2.  Clear the nose. This is especially important for newborns, who breathe almost exclusively through their noses.  Drip saline in the baby’s nose, then use a bulb syringe to clear the mucus.

3.  Humidify the air. Run a humidifier or vaporizer in your baby’s room.  Or run hot water in the shower, then sit in the steamy bathroom (not in the shower) with the baby.

4.  Boost fluid intake. If you are breastfeeding, nurse your baby more frequently.  For older babies or children, try chicken soup or chamomile tea.  For children over 1 year old, try warm water or tea with lemon and honey (do not give honey to children under 1 year of age).

5.  Elevate the head. Keep your baby upright as much as possible.  Also consider placing a pillow under the head-end of the crib mattress (never put a pillow on top of the mattress because it is a suffocation hazard).

6.  Focus on prevention. Cold viruses are spread from one person to another by physical contact through the touching, coughing, and sneezing.  Make hand-washing a habit in your house.  Teach kids to sneeze and cough into a tissue or the crook of their elbow (never into their hands). Avoid exposure to sick friends and relatives.  You’ll be amazed at how much these tips will decrease your children’s chance of falling sick!

Next week we’ll discuss more all-natural relief options!