How To Control Your Child's Cough, Naturally.

In discussing cough and cold medicines, the FDA reports that "questions have been raised about the safety of these products and whether the benefits justify any potential risks from the use of these products in children, especially in children under 2 years of age." - so reported Vincent Iannelli, M.D., of www.About.com.

"There are even warnings on the label that (cough and cold medicines) shouldn't be given to children under age 4". - he continued.

However, with the cold and flu season in active swing, what's a parent to do to control the often uncomfortable, seemingly uncontrollable cough of their young child?

Since coughing is useful in bringing up mucus and clearing up air passages, the key is all about controlling the cough to make your little one comfortable.

Fortunately, there are several natural alternatives that are just as effective (maybe even more) in controlling a child's cough.

* The Homeopathic Cough Syrup.

Natural Cough and Bronchial Syrup, Nighttime, Boericke & Tafel Homeopathic cough syrup, is a great natural alternative to the cough syrups available on the mainstream market.

In addition to relieving coughs due to colds or throat irritations, it soothes the throat, helps clear bronchial congestion, is nonnarcotic, and contains no artificial flavors or ingredients.

Instead of simply suppressing your child's cough, it also aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) & thinning bronchial secretions to rid the bronchial passageways of bothersome mucus & drain bronchial tubes, and clearing up infections.

Specifically tailored for children 12 years of age or older, it's advisable to consult your child's pediatrician if they are under the age of 12.

* A Spoonful Of Honey And Lemon Juice.

There are several natural cough recipes combining the power of lemon juice and honey (whether the honey be raw or not is purely up to your preferences), but a nice quick fix would include a spoonful of honey and lemon juice given as often as needed (this link provides a great natural cough syrup recipe containing lemons and honey http://www.buzzle.com/articles/how-to-use-honey-lemon-cure-cough.html).

If you want to add a little 'kick' to it, crush up some soft peppermint candy and place it on the spoon. In addition to opening up you child's air passages, it will also aid in soothing the throat.

It is vital to note however, that children under two years of age shouldn't consume honey at the risk of being infected with botulism - a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by botulism toxin.

Therefore, this treatment is safer for children three years of age or older.

* The Most Effective Remedy Of All.

I have found that this simple remedy is not only the most effective, it's also safe for children of all ages.

With the use of Gentle Naturals Soothing Vapor Cream (some opt for Vapor-rub, but I've found it to be overpowering), rub your child's chest, back, and soles of feet with an amount that's just enough to cover the upper portion of the back and chest, and the entire sole of the foot.

Immediately cover your child's chest with a high neck t-shirt and place white socks (I'm not sure of the exact science behind this, but using white socks instead of socks with color seem to work much better) on your child's feet.

Believe it or not, your child's nighttime coughing will be reduced drastically!

* Other Ideas.

In addition to these simple tips, running an Hepa air-purifier during the night (if you don't own an air purifier, place a houseplant in the room they are sleeping in [out of your child's reach](http://hubpages.com/hub/House-Plants-The-Inexpensive-Air-Purifier) this will help clear the air of exacerbating allergens that will make your child's cough worse.

While coughing has its benefits, keeping your child comfortable and helping them get sufficient rest, is your ultimate goal.

With these simple tips, finding a natural solution to controlling your child's cough should be quite attainable.

*(in the event your child's cough lasts over a week, or stops only to recur, it's best to seek prompt medical attention - there could be an underlying condition that needs prompt care)

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