New Delhi, December 14 (IANS). The winter season is full of challenges for children. Cold and chilly winds quickly affect their health. Often children face problems like chest tightness, cough or difficulty in breathing, due to which the child is neither able to play nor sleep. There is restlessness throughout the day. In such a situation, traditional remedies passed down from generations of grandmothers can prove to be very helpful.
According to Ayurveda, it is important to have a balance of both body and mind to prevent and improve the problems caused by cold in children. If the child is dependent on mother’s milk, then the mother’s diet should be pure and balanced. Foods with cold effect, heavy and spicy foods, or foods that cause gas and constipation should be avoided. The child also benefits when the mother’s digestive power and immunity improves.
Sesame oil is considered a boon in Ayurveda. Along with its hot nature, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are found in it. It helps in opening the respiratory passages, relaxing the nerves of the lungs and removing mucus.
Light warm massage with sesame oil is the most effective solution for small children. It should be slightly heated and gently massaged on the child’s chest, back and arms and legs. Use light hands while massaging so that the child gets relief. It not only reduces cold and stiffness but also improves the baby’s sleep.
Betel leaf is also considered a wonderful remedy in Ayurveda. It has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which remove mucus and give relief to the nerves of the lungs. For this, lightly roast the betel leaf on a pan and apply sesame oil on top. Keep in mind that the leaf should be slightly warm. Then place it on the child’s chest and cover it with a soft cloth on top. This remedy helps in reducing congestion and cough caused by cold air.
Nutmeg and dates are also natural remedies to provide relief from winter stiffness in children. In Ayurveda, nutmeg is considered to have mild warming effect, which improves digestion and keeps the body warm from inside.
If the child is fed dry grapes, dates soaked in milk and a small amount of nutmeg powder, it reduces congestion and cough and improves the child’s sleep.
Congestion, cough or breathing problems can be serious in young children. Therefore, always consult your pediatrician or doctor before adopting any remedy.
–IANS
PK/ABM