As cold & flu season starts rearing its ugly head, it is time to stock up and prepare to attack those runny noses, sore throats, and harsh coughs. Here are some things every mama bear should know- plus, how to treat it quickly.
More Reading: Immunity Boosters to Add to Your Daily Regimen
The most common colds are caused by rhinoviruses that are carried by invisible droplets in the air and on surfaces that we touch. These viruses can penetrate the protective lining of the nose and throat setting off an immune response, which can cause congestion, a headache, or sore throat.
Colds are incredibly contagious, especially within the first few days of symptoms, and it usually takes about a week or two to recover.
Children can get eight or more colds a year, and unfortunately, it simply needs to run
its course. Although there is no way to cure a cold, there are ways to help alleviate symptoms and get your child feeling better faster.
Traditional over-the-counter medicines cover up cold symptoms without actually helping to heal the body.
They also come with unwanted and sometimes dangerous side effects. Natural remedies are a better
alternative that tends to yield very effective results. Using pure saline water drops in the nostrils as well as running a cool-mist humidifier can help with congestion. You also want to consistently clear any mucus from the nose.
A simple teaspoon of honey and lemon juice can help to soothe a child’s throat while gargling with salt water can also benefit a sore throat and loosen mucus in older children. Running a hot shower can create steam to
help moisten and clear a child’s nasal passages, and taking a warm bath can help relieve aches and pains. Of course, bed rest and drinking plenty of fluids like water and juice are also quintessential treatments to help your
child’s immune system do its job.
There are many health benefits in using supplements that are made from all-natural, herbal ingredients.
You can give your child’s immune system a boost using vitamin C, zinc, and elderberry supplements. Zinc is a trace element that is essential for all immune system cells to function properly, and elderberry can help to reduce the duration of a cold. You can also give your child anti-inflammatory supplements like ginger or echinacea. People have been using echinacea to fight infections for ages as it is believed to decrease inflammation and help your body heal from the cold or flu. You may also use eucalyptus oil and peppermint to help loosen up mucus and assist with relieving congestion. There is an abundance of natural and safe ingredients that can allow us to be proactive about our self-care.
I learned about Earthley’s mission which is to help educate others about herbal remedies in order to help people take control of their health and wellness naturally. The brand offers many safe and helpful products to assist in your child’s recovery from a cold. Earthley’s “Elderberry Elixir” is a shelf-stable, concentrated tincture that helps build immunity to fight colds and the flu.
“We do everything ourselves with absolutely no outsourcing to a third party. It’s important to us to know that the products we’re selling are truly clean.”
Kate Tietje, lead herbalist and CMO of Earthley
When it comes to curing any type of cold or wound, I always prefer to go the natural route.
I believe in the power of herbs and holistic remedies so it was refreshing to discover that this brand uses natural and organic ingredients in their kid’s version including echinacea root, fennel seed, astragalus root, elderflower, and cinnamon.
I hope you found these tips and information helpful. Stay healthy!
