When a baby suffers from a cough, parents are sure to be worried. Far from chemical syrups, more and more families are choosing homeopathy for their baby’s cough, considered a natural, gentle alternative with no side effects. But is it really effective? Let’s take a look at what the specialists have to say and the remedies recommended for each type of cough.
Understanding a baby’s cough
Coughing is a natural reflex that helps to clear the airways. In babies, it can be caused by a simple cold, allergies or, more rarely, more serious infections such as bronchiolitis. Before considering treatment, it is always essential to identify the exact cause of the cough.
Why do some parents choose homeopathy?
Homeopathy is perceived as gentle, natural and without side effects. For parents anxious to avoid chemical medicines for infants, it may seem an ideal solution. Especially as many remedies are available in pharmacies without a prescription.
Homeopathic treatments for baby coughs: which ones to choose and how to administer them?
When baby coughs, every night without sleep becomes a marathon for parents. You may be wondering: “Should I go to the paediatrician? Should I wait? Can I try something gentle? Homeopathy is often considered at such times, as it is perceived as a natural method with no notable side effects. But not all remedies are created equal, and above all, they must be adapted to the type of cough your child has.
1. Drosera rotundifolia
- Indication: dry, irritating, spasmodic cough, especially at night.
- Typical symptoms :
- Coughing in fits and spells, sometimes leading to vomiting.
- Worsens when lying down.
- Little or no sputum.
- How to take :
- Classic dosage: 5 granules in 5CH or 9CH, 2 to 3 times a day.
- For babies, dilute the granules in a little water (10-15 ml) and administer with a spoon or pipette.
- Preferably given before bedtime if the cough is nocturnal.
2. Belladonna
- Indication: sudden cough with fever, inflammation and red face.
- Typical symptoms :
- Sudden onset, high fever, sweating, rapid pulse.
- Red, sore throat.
- Dry cough, sometimes with chest pain.
- How to take :
- Dosage: 5 granules of 9CH, 3 times a day.
- For babies, dissolve the granules in water.
- Can be given in addition to paracetamol if fever is high (always on medical advice).
3. Ipeca (Ipecacuanha)
- Indication: hacking cough with nausea or vomiting.
- Typical symptoms:
- Productive cough (mucus), but baby cannot expectorate well.
- Frequent nausea.
- Wheezing.
- How to take :
- Recommended dosage: 5CH or 7CH granules, 2 to 4 times a day depending on intensity.
- Dilute in a little water for infants.
- Administer after meals, as nausea may worsen on an empty stomach.
4. Pulsatilla
- Indication: progressive cough, with thick nasal discharge and easy crying.
- Typical symptoms:
- Baby asks to be held, seeks comfort.
- Cough changes: sometimes dry, sometimes oily.
- Thick, yellow or greenish mucus.
- Worsens in the evening or in a warm room.
- How to take :
- Dosage: 5 granules of 9CH, morning and evening.
- For babies, dilute the granules in lukewarm water.
- Can be combined with regular nose-washing (saline solution).
How should homeopathy be administered to a baby?
Conventional granules are not suitable for a baby’s mouth. Here is the recommended method:
- Dilution: Dissolve the granules (usually 5 granules) in 10 to 15 ml of lukewarm water.
- Administration: Use a pipette or spoon to give the liquid to your baby.
- Frequency: Follow the specific instructions for each remedy. In general, take the remedy at intervals as soon as the symptoms improve.
Important to remember
- Homeopathic remedies are never a substitute for medical advice, especially if the cough worsens, persists for more than 3 days, or is accompanied by fever, wheezing or respiratory distress.
- No prolonged self-medication: If there is no improvement after 48 hours, it’s best to consult a paediatrician.
- Homeopathy can help, but it is not a basic treatment or a miracle solution.
Conclusion
Homeopathy may be an interesting way of relieving mild coughs in babies, provided it is used with caution and discernment. Scientific evidence remains limited, but many parents report an improvement in symptoms. Whatever the case, your child’s safety must remain the priority.
