A Natural Approach to Cold and Flu Season

Health Canada banned regular cough and cold meds for kids under 6 back in 2008 due to insufficient proof they worked, and too many reports of bad side effects. 

This left a lot of parents feeling helpless during our long cold and cough season.  But don’t worry, there’s still lots you can do to help prevent and treat these issues in your kids.

Remember, it’s natural for kids to get around 6 to 8 colds a year. In fact, getting sick and recovering is how our immune systems develop.  So, that cough or runny nose might just be a sign of your child’s immune system working, developing and getting stronger, not a sign that they’re always sick.

 Here are some common sense basics to help prevent coughs and colds in children:

1. Keep them hydrated
2. Provide good nutrition with plenty of fruits and vegetables
3. Ensure they get plenty of rest
4. Wash hands frequently with soap and water
5. Teach them to sneeze into their elbow

When a cough or cold develops here are some ways you can treat it safely and naturally:

1. Increase the Humidity 

Cool mist humidifiers are often recommended to help relieve congestion caused by colds.    They can provide much needed moisture in the air, especially during dry Alberta winters.  Just be sure to clean them on a regular basis.  Choose a model that allows you to add a few drops of an essential oil such as eucalyptus radiata or tea tree.  (You can also add a couple drops of an essential oil blend to the soles of your child’s feet to help relieve coughs and colds).

2. Try a Saline Solution (nasal irrigation and aspiration)

Little ones can’t blow their noses.  Manual aspiration (snot sucking) is often required to remove excess mucus from their nasal passages.  Saline solutions can help soften and clear the mucus which helps reduce congestion and improves breathing.  In older children, I recommend nasal irrigation to help with the congestion caused by colds.  This could be in the form of a spray or a netti pot depending on your child’s preference.  In infants, I typically recommend nasal drops combined with aspiration to help soften and then remove mucus.  Always use saline drops before aspirating.  Look for brands that are specifically labelled for infants and children.  For example, both Hydrasense and NeilMed have pediatric specific nasal irrigation kits.   Always follow the product directions and ensure your child’s head is in the proper position to avoid getting water into the throat.  

3. Use Homeopathic Medicines 

There are, in fact, a number of medicines for cough and cold that are approved by Health Canada for use in children under 6 years of age. These products help provide symptomatic relief.  Several companies provide homeopathic medicines and you may already have a favourite.   

I often recommend Stodal cough syrup for children 1 year and up and Coryzalia for congestion in  infants and children. Each product has the indications, age range and dosing instructions on the package.  Most pharmacies carry these medicines.  I have heard a few accounts, particularly at larger pharmacies, where parents have asked for something safe for their small child’s cough and been sent away empty-handed because the staff member didn’t know that they carried these products.  Just keep this in mind when looking for these medicines as they are generally easy to find.
When to see a doctor: Children’s colds and coughs usually do not require medical attention.  However, if your child is having difficulties breathing, has a high fever, a “barky” cough, is having difficulties eating, drinking or sleeping, or if symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.

For some natural options, join my free class on “A Natural Approach to the Cold and Flu season”.