A baby’s cough and cold can worry any parent. Since infants have a sensitive immune system, even a mild cold can make them uncomfortable. Instead of immediately turning to strong medicines, gentle and natural home remedies can provide safe relief.
Here, we’ll share simple and effective home remedies for cold and cough in infants that are trusted by parents and recommended by pediatric experts.
🌸 Understanding Cold and Cough in Infants
A cold in babies is caused mainly by viral infections that affect the nose, throat, and upper respiratory tract. Common symptoms include:
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Runny or stuffy nose
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Mild cough
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Sneezing
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Slight fever
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Irritability or loss of appetite
Colds usually last 7–10 days, and while there’s no instant cure, you can ease your baby’s symptoms naturally at home.
1. Warm Mustard Oil Massage (Sarson Ka Tel)
Why it helps: Mustard oil helps improve blood circulation and provides warmth, which can relieve nasal congestion and cough.
How to use:
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Heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil with 2–3 cloves of garlic or carom seeds (ajwain).
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Let it cool until lukewarm.
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Gently massage your baby’s chest, back, and feet before bedtime.
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Avoid applying on the face or near the nose.
🩵 Tip: Make sure the oil is only mildly warm, not hot.
🍯 2. Steam Therapy (Indirect Steam)
Why it helps: Warm steam helps loosen mucus and clear nasal passages.
How to do it safely:
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Run a hot shower in the bathroom and close the door.
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Sit in the steamy room with your baby for 5–10 minutes (don’t place the baby directly in steam).
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This provides comfort and easy breathing.
🍼 3. Breastfeeding – The Best Natural Medicine
Why it helps: Mother’s milk boosts the baby’s immunity and helps fight infection.
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Breastfeed frequently to keep the baby hydrated.
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Breast milk also helps reduce throat irritation and mild fever naturally.
🌼 4. Saline Drops for Blocked Nose
Why it helps: Saline (salt water) drops help clear mucus buildup and make it easier for babies to breathe.
How to use:
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Use pediatric saline drops (available at pharmacies).
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Put 1–2 drops in each nostril gently.
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Wait a few minutes, then clean the nose with a soft tissue or baby suction bulb.
🍃 5. Ajwain Potli (Carom Seed Compress)
Why it helps: Carom seeds (ajwain) have antibacterial properties that help relieve congestion.
How to prepare:
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Roast 2 tablespoons of ajwain and 1 tablespoon of salt in a dry pan.
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Tie it in a clean cotton cloth to make a potli (pouch).
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Let it cool slightly and gently rub it on your baby’s chest, back, and soles for warmth.
⚠️ Ensure the pouch is warm, not hot, to avoid burns.
🌸 6. Keep Baby Hydrated and Comfortable
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Offer breast milk or formula regularly.
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Keep the baby’s room warm but well-ventilated.
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Use a humidifier in dry weather to maintain moisture in the air.
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Dress the baby in light, soft layers to avoid overheating.
🍯 7. Honey (Only for Babies Above 1 Year)
If your baby is older than 12 months, honey can soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing.
How to give:
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Mix ½ teaspoon of honey with warm water.
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Give once or twice a day.
⚠️ Never give honey to infants below 1 year — it can cause infant botulism.
🌿 8. Tulsi and Ginger Vapors (For Room Purification)
Why it helps: Tulsi (holy basil) and ginger contain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that purify the air and ease congestion.
How to use:
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Boil a few tulsi leaves and ginger slices in water.
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Let the vapor spread in the baby’s room for a few minutes (keep baby away from direct steam).
💧 9. Elevate the Baby’s Head Slightly While Sleeping
Placing a small, soft towel under the mattress (not under the baby’s head directly) can help ease breathing during sleep by reducing nasal blockage.
🌼 10. Keep the Surroundings Clean
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Wash your hands before handling the baby.
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Keep toys, pacifiers, and bottles sanitized.
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Avoid exposure to cold air or sudden temperature changes.
⚠️ When to Call a Doctor
While home remedies help mild colds, seek medical attention if your baby shows any of these symptoms:
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High fever (above 100.4°F or 38°C)
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Difficulty breathing or wheezing
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Refuses to feed or drink
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Continuous coughing
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Lethargy or unusual sleepiness
Always trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, contact your pediatrician immediately.
🌺 Final Thoughts
Home remedies for cold and cough in infants are gentle, effective, and safe when done correctly. Always keep comfort, hydration, and warmth in focus. Avoid over-the-counter medicines unless prescribed by a doctor.
Natural care with love, patience, and simple remedies can help your baby recover faster and feel better naturally. 💚