Home Remedies for a Baby With a Cough

Coughing is a natural and protective function the body uses to clear the lungs and throat of irritants. Although a necessary bodily mechanism, coughing can be distressing and uncomfortable for a baby, causing aches and strain in her chest. If parents do not want to use conventional treatments, they can opt to use natural remedies to alleviate and calm a baby's cough.

Licorice Tea

Licorice tea contains antibacterial ingredients that soothe the throat and respiratory tract. Since it also has a sweet taste, babies respond well to it. It is best served warm, in a bottle or cup, three times a day.

Osho Root

This highly aromatic root found in tea or tincture form has properties to help clear the lungs. Especially good for a dry cough, osha root can be taken three times a day for three to four days.

Breast Milk

Some moms find that the comfort attached to breast milk can soothe and heal a cough. Increasing feedings during a cough is an effective way for a baby to consume liquids and flush out any bacteria located in her lungs.

Herbal Rub

Mix 4 tbsp. olive oil and 2 drops eucalyptus, sage, rosemary and peppermint oil in a bowl. Rub the mixture over the baby's chest when she is sleeping. This will ease coughing and soothe the respiratory tract.

Bath

A warm bath can help loosen any blockage in the chest and calm a baby. Add a few drops of chamomile or lavender oil to the water, which can open baby's airways to ease a cough.

Humidifier

Running a humidifier can help clear dust in the air and make a baby more comfortable. Place herbal oils, such as eucalyptus and rosemary, on a baby's chest and run the humidifier overnight for optimal results.

Resources

• Natural Cough Remedies