Singapore’s weather is often erratic, with super hot days and then, heavy thunderstorms. When we take our kids out, they are exposed to all these elements.
They walk in and out of air-conditioned places (like malls, trains and buses). These sudden temperature changes could be one of the factors that causes our children to fall sick. Another factor is being exposed to so many germs when they leave the house.
Certain bacteria and viruses spread easily too in warmer climates like ours. Cough and fever are the most common illnesses that can be passed to our kids.
While there are many solutions to cure these minor conditions, sometimes medication doesn’t seem to be quite enough. So parents might want to supplement their child’s treatment with these natural remedies instead.
Here are 12 natural ways you can reduce cough and fever at home. | Source: Pixabay
Here are 12 natural remedies for cough and fever
1. Drink honey tea
Honey helps to relieve coughs as it appears to be as effective as a common cough suppressant. It contains dextromethorphan, found in typical over-the-counter remedies. However, never give honey to children below 1 year old.
Teas and ginger helps relieve cough. | Source: Pixabay
2. Take ginger
Ginger may ease a dry or asthmatic cough, as it has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also relieve nausea and pain. Studies suggests that some anti-inflammatory compounds in ginger can relax membranes in the airways, which could reduce coughing.
3. Lots of fluids
Staying hydrated is vital for those with a cough or cold. Research indicates that drinking liquids at room temperature can alleviate a cough, runny nose, or sneezing. Warm fluids may include, teas, broth, water or fruit juices.
4. Steam
Steaming helps reduce mucus and phlegm. You can take a hot shower or bath and allow the room to be filled with steam and stay in it until symptoms subside. You can also make a steam bowl by filling it up with hot water, and adding some essential oils/herbs to it. Lean over and drape a cloth over your head.
Essential oils like eucalyptus and rosemary can help reduce congestion. | Source: Pixabay
5. Salt gargle
This simple remedy is one of the most effective for treating coughs. Salt water reduces phlegm and mucus in the back of the throat which can lessen the need to cough. Avoid giving salt water to younger children as they may not be able to gargle properly, and swallowing salt water can be dangerous.
6. Take pineapple
Bromelain is an enzyme that comes from pineapples. It has anti inflammatory properties and may also have mucuolytic properties, which means that it can break down mucus and remove it from the body.
7. Increase probiotics
Probiotics do not directly relieve a fever, but they may boost the immune system by balancing the bacteria in the gut. A superior immune system can help to fight off infections or allergens that may be causing the fever.
8. Warm baths and sponging
Take a bath in lukewarm water. This temperature will feel plenty cool when you have a fever, and the bath should help bring your body temperature down. Sponging high-heat areas like your armpits and groin with cool water can help reduce your temperature as the water evaporates.
Chicken soups are packed with vitamins and minerals. | Source: Pixabay
9. Eat chicken soup
Chicken soup has held its spot on the list of trusted remedies. Boasting a host of vitamins and minerals essential for fighting a virus, chicken soup also provides the fluids and electrolytes required to keep you hydrated.
10. Stay cool
You can cool down your body by wearing light/thin clothes. Try to avoid using too many extra blankets when you have chills and use a fan to keep the air circulating.
11. Rest
A fever is a sign that your body is working hard to fight off an infection. Rest as much as possible and stop any exercise routine for the time being. Aim for eight to nine hours or more of sleep per night and stay in bed as much as you can during the day.
Water is one of the most important factor to keep your body from being dehydrated. | Source: Pixabay
12. Stay hydrated
Having fever makes your body warmer than usual. This causes your body to sweat in an effort to cool down. But this leads to fluid loss, which can cause dehydration. Drink as much cool or room temperature water as you can when you have a viral fever to replenish lost fluids.
A cough or fever is usually nothing to worry about. In both children and adults, most viruses resolve on their own. But if you notice unusual symptoms, or a fever doesn’t go away after a day or so, it’s best to see your doctor.
Source: WebMD
Read also: 5 natural remedies for cough and cold during pregnancy
