Home Remedies for Your Child’s Runny Nose

1. Saline Rinse

For an adult or child, a saline rinse is one of the best home remedies for a runny nose. A saline rinse helps loosen up mucus, making it easier and more comfortable to expel.

It even clears the nasal passages of irritants and helps your child breathe through the nose.

• Make the saline solution by mixing ¼ teaspoon of table salt in a cup of bolied water which has been cooled to room temperature.
• Put a few drops of the solution into one of the nostrils, while tipping your child’s head backwards.
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• Immediately suck out the excess mucus using a bulb syringe, while closing the other nostril with one of your fingers.
• Repeat the procedure with the other nostril.
• Use this remedy up to 3 times a day, but not more than that.

If you find it difficult, do not hesitate to get help from others.

2. Steam

Inhaling steam helps ease the discomfort of a runny nose. It clears out the excess mucus that causes the dripping and sneezing. It will also help your child sleep better, which is important for faster recovery.

• For very small children, turn the bathroom into a steam room by closing the door and turning the shower on full hot. Take your child into the bathroom and sit there with your child for 10 to 15 minutes. Do this 2 or 3 times a day.
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• For older children, you can opt to use a facial steamer. Sit with your child on your lap and lean over a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head to trap the steam. Ask your child to breathe in the steam for 5 to 10 minutes, then ask him or her to blow their nose. Do this a few times a day.