50+ Home Remedies to Treat Cold & Cough in Toddlers

Summary: This blog will take you through 50+ home remedies to treat cold & cough in toddlers. From using saline drops to giving pumpkin soups, you will get to know some amazing cures for the cold. So, stay tuned!

Frustrating and trying — if you’ve come here searching for home remedies to treat cold and cough in toddlers, then you know just how challenging it can be. As a parent, watching your little one struggle with congestion, a sore throat, or a persistent cough can be both emotionally and physically exhausting. 

With their developing immune systems and limited ability to express discomfort, Toddlers often seem to suffer the most during these illnesses. Moreover, you may hesitate to use over-the-counter medicines or be worried about potential side effects.

Luckily, there are many natural and safe home remedies that can help soothe your toddler’s cold and cough symptoms. This offers comfort and relief without the need for harsh chemicals. Today, in this blog, we’ll discover amazing home remedies to treat cold & cough in toddlers. 

From simple steam treatments and soothing chest massages to hydration and herbal remedies, you can easily incorporate all these remedies into your child’s routine.   

Home Remedies to Treat Cold & Cough in Toddlers 

When toddlers catch a cold or develop a cough, it can be distressing for both them and their parents. However, there are several safe and effective home remedies to help alleviate symptoms and provide comfort while the little one recovers. These remedies can soothe a sore throat, reduce congestion, and promote restful sleep, all of which are essential for a toddler’s recovery.

1. Saline Drops

Saline nasal drops are a gentle and effective remedy for relieving toddler nasal congestion. The saline solution helps thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the nasal passages. This can relieve stuffy noses and improve breathing, especially during sleep, making it easier for your toddler to rest.

2. Humidifier

Using a humidifier in your toddler’s room can help alleviate dry air, which can irritate the respiratory system and make coughing worse. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which helps loosen mucus and soothe inflamed nasal passages and throat. It’s particularly helpful when the weather is dry or during the winter months.

3. Gargling

For toddlers old enough to understand, gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce irritation. The saltwater can also help clear mucus from the throat. However, this remedy is typically only effective for toddlers at least three years old who can gargle safely.

4. Nasal Strips

Nasal strips are adhesive strips applied to the outside of the nose to help open the nasal passages. By gently lifting the nostrils, they help improve airflow and reduce congestion, making it easier for toddlers to breathe, especially during sleep. These strips are noninvasive and can be an easy solution for temporary relief.

5. Steam

Inhaling steam is a simple and effective remedy for easing congestion in toddlers. The warm, moist air helps loosen mucus in the chest and nasal passages. You can run a hot shower and sit with your toddler in the bathroom for 10-15 minutes to allow them to breathe in the steam or use a humidifier to provide continuous steam.

6. Rest

Rest is crucial for toddlers when they’re sick. Adequate sleep and rest help boost the immune system, allowing the body to recover and fight off the infection. Encouraging your toddler to nap and get plenty of sleep at night is essential for a speedy recovery. Avoiding too much physical activity during a cold helps the body focus on healing.

7. Chest Massage Oil

Another one of the amazing home remedies to treat cold & cough in toddlers is a good massage. A gentle chest massage with soothing oils can help relieve coughing and congestion. Certain oils, like eucalyptus (diluted with a carrier oil), are known for clearing the airways and easing respiratory discomfort. A gentle massage on the chest, back, and under the feet can help your toddler feel more relaxed and help loosen mucus in the chest.

8. Breast Milk or Formula

For babies, breast milk or formula is the best nutrition when dealing with a cold. These carry antibodies that help boost immunity and fight infection. Formula makes sure they are well nourished in case breastfeeding is impossible. Both fluids keep babies hydrated and aid in recovery.

9. Palm Sugar Or Tal Mishri

In ancient medicines, they used palm sugar, also known as “tal mishri.” It soothes the irritation inside the throat and is an anti-inflammatory. Soaking small pieces of palm sugar in warm water or milk gives gentle relief and helps to ease discomfort when a person has caught a cold.

10. Ajwain Water with Jaggery

Since ajwain contains carom seeds mixed with jaggery, it can be used as a natural treatment for cold symptoms. Ajwain has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, while jaggery soothes the throat and improves digestion. This warm, sweet drink would help reduce coughing, congestion, and digestive discomfort in kids, thereby making it a great comforting drink for them. 

11. Lemon Juice with Honey

Lemon juice with honey is a powerful remedy for sore throats and coughs. The vitamin C in lemon strengthens the immune system, while honey’s antibacterial properties help soothe and coat the throat. A warm drink made with these ingredients can provide relief from cold symptoms.

12. Clove and Honey Mix

Cloves are rich in antioxidants and possess antimicrobial properties that can help treat colds. Mixing clove powder with honey provides a soothing remedy for sore throats and coughs. The honey coats the throat, and cloves help reduce inflammation and clear respiratory congestion, offering quick relief.

13. Ghee and Black Pepper

Another one of the popular home remedies to treat cold & cough in toddlers is this. Ghee (clarified butter) mixed with black pepper is an old remedy to curb the manifestations of cold. Black pepper helps clear nasal congestion. Ghee soothes and lubricates the throat. This warm combination nourishes, creates a better function in the respiratory system, and supports recovery speed during a cold.

14. Barley Water

Barley water is a hydrating, soothing drink that can help clear up congestion. It is easy to digest and can help detoxify the body. Barley is also gentle on the stomach and helps maintain hydration, which is crucial during illness, making it a great option for children with colds.

15. Warm Soups and Broths

Clear soups and broths are comforting, gentle foods for kids with the cold. They constitute providing adequate hydration while offering essential nutrients not too heavy on the stomach. Warm soups help soothe sore throats and clear congestion while offering vitamins and minerals to support the immune system.

16. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes become mashed soft to eat and contain a wealth of vitamins A and C, which are important for immunity. They are a soothing meal for kids not only for ill kids but we should be giving it to toddlers in general as well. Their natural sweetness also makes them appealing during a cold to kids, boosting energy and nourishment.

17. Steamed Vegetables

For example, steamed carrots, peas, or zucchini are easy to digest and rich in vitamins. They are generally mild on the stomach and support the immune system, so ideally suited for a child with a cold. This way, steaming helps retain the nutrients so that the child gets maximum health benefits from the veggies.

18. Bananas

Bananas are good for children who have a cold. They are soft, easy to digest, and full of potassium, which keeps electrolytes in balance. The natural sweetness also makes bananas appealing to sick kids, giving them sustenance and helping to soothe a sore throat during a cold.

19. Warm Cereal or Oats

Warm cereals such as oats are very easy to make, light on the stomach, and full of nutrients. The fiber in oats makes digestion easier, and it’s a good source of prolonged energy supply. So, a warm bowl of oats is a comforting and nourishing breakfast or snack during a cold that promotes recovery.

20. Yogurt

Yogurt is packed with probiotics that support gut health and boost immunity. Yogurt is also a source of calcium, protein, and vitamins, which is a healthy food for children suffering from a cold. Yogurt can be a soothing agent on the throat or may be consumed alone or mixed with honey or fruit for added flavor.

21. Ginger Water

Ginger water is also an easily available remedy for patients with colds. It contains anti-inflammatory substances and helps treat sore throats by disinfecting and relieving irritation in the throat, loosening, and reducing coughing. Additionally, ginger water clears congestion and is warmed to soothe soreness. It aids children with digestion when they have the common cold.

22. Applesauce

Since applesauce is easy to digest and mild on the stomach, it’s a good food for unwell children. Also, being rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it supports the immunity-building process. The natural sweet taste of applesauce helps kids feel better with cold-related loss of appetite.

23. Tulsi Water

Tulsi or holy basil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The water helps relieve the symptoms of a cold, such as coughing, congestion, and sore throats. It also boosts the immunity of children and aids detoxification, thus forming this healing drink for children suffering from colds and other respiratory ailments.

24. Turmeric Milk

Turmeric milk, which is known as “golden milk,” is a traditional remedy for colds. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. A warm cup of turmeric milk can help soothe a sore throat, reduce inflammation, and promote overall recovery from a cold in kids.

25. Rice Soup

Rice soup, which is often referred to as “kanji,” is light, easy to digest, and hydrating. It comforts and nourishes when a child has a cold and doesn’t want to eat in the first place. Rice soup is wonderfully easy on the stomach; it can be made using very few ingredients to create a soothing, wholesome meal.

26. Garlic Lentil Soup

Garlic lentil soup combines the immune-boosting benefits of garlic with the protein and fiber from lentils. Garlic has antibacterial properties that help clear congestion and reduce inflammation. This hearty soup can provide warmth, nourishment, and relief from cold symptoms like sore throat and coughing.

27. Vegetable Moong Dal Soup

A legume, particularly moong dal is a very nutritious and easy-to-digest that provides protein and fiber. When mixed with veggies like carrots and spinach, it can be the perfect soothing, immune-boosting soup. This light soup could help support the immune system so that kids can get out of the cold.

28. Pumpkin Soup

Pumpkin soup contains vitamin A and antioxidants; these help in increasing the immunity of one. The soup is soothing and easy on the stomach, making it absolutely suitable for sick kids. A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides important nutrients while relieving cold symptoms such as congestion and sore throat.

29. Carrot Beetroot Soup

Carrot and beetroot are high in vitamins and antioxidants. A soup of these vegetables is nourishing and soothing. Such a soup would help clear nasal congestion, soothe the sore throat, and give much-needed nourishment during a cold.

30. Chicken Clear Soup

Chicken clear soup has long been used for colds as an age-old remedy, as it is nourishing and soothing. Such soup, comprising a good amount of protein and essential vitamins, with its warmth alleviates congestion and soothes a sore throat. It is easy to digest and comforting for kids recovering from illness.

31. Mutton Soup

Mutton soup is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals that boost the immune system. The heat from the soup helps to relieve congestion and heal a sore throat, and mutton provides a good energy level. This nutritious soup is an excellent food to feed ill children and to help them recover.

32. Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is rich in vitamin C, which supports your immune system and, consequently, helps fight infections. The soothing warmth and mild acidity help clear congestion and soothe a sore throat. Tomato soup is such an option that it is easy to digest. It will nourish but be gentle enough on a child’s digestive system.

33. Broccoli Mushroom Soup

Broccoli is a strong source of vitamin C; mushrooms bring out the immune-boosting components. Together, they complement each other as a nutrient and immunostimulatory soup. This light, soothing soup can aid in relieving the symptoms of a cold, congested nose, and sore throat- through the provision of essential nutrients to enhance body recovery.

34. Red Lentil Fenugreek Soup

Red lentils richly supply protein and fiber content, and fenugreek exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. A bowl of red lentil fenugreek soup is very nourishing and soothing for sick children. This nutrient-dense soup supports their immune system and helps to eliminate cold symptoms such as congestion and sore throat.

35. Pumpkin Red Lentil Soup

Pumpkin and red lentils make a nutritious combination that supports immunity and provides comfort. Pumpkin is rich in antioxidants, while red lentils offer protein and fiber. This hearty soup is easy to digest, soothing for a sore throat, and provides much-needed nutrients for children recovering from a cold.

36. Cream of Spinach Soup

Spinach is full of vitamins A and C. Both of these vitamins boost the immune system. A comforting soup of creamy spinach is a wonder to soothe the sore throat, and at the same time, it nourishes the child suffering from a cold as well as providing relief for respiratory disorders.

37. Tomato Rasam

Tomato rasam is a spicy soup from South India, with the primary ingredients being tomatoes and tamarind. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, this rasam helps build up immunity. A warm, tangy, soothing congestion-clearing, soothing sore throats, and nutritious rasam to help kids get better from a cold.

38. Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate juice is a healthy beverage loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, which boost the immune system. It fights off infections, boosts energy levels, and hydrates the body. Pomegranate juice is a refreshing, healthy drink to give to kids when they have a cold.

39. Carrot Puree

Carrot puree is so simple to digest, rich in vitamin A, and helps the immune system grow strong. It is soothing on sore throats and gentle on the stomach. This simple nutritious puree gives children the very important vitamins while being light and comforting in times of recovering from a cold.

40. Sweet Potato Puree

Sweet potato puree is very rich in vitamins A and C and can help boost immunity and even heal. It’s soft, easy to digest, and a soothing option for kids with a cold. Its natural sweetness also makes it appealing to children, providing them with comfort and nourishment during illness times.

41. Broccoli Spinach Puree

Broccoli and spinach are rich sources of many vitamins and minerals that act as immune system supporters. A broccoli spinach puree can be softened to the stomach to easily digest, which is great for kids who have recently caught a cold. This puree supports necessary nutrients in addition to soothing the throat.

42. Green Peas Puree

Green peas are full of vitamins A and C, which help boost immunity and fight off infections. A simple puree made from green peas is an easy, gut-friendly tool that will soothe their stomach. It provides essential nutrients while being soothing and nutritious for sick kids.

43. Raw Kerala Banana Porridge

This is one variety of Kerala banana porridge that is made with green, unripe bananas. These bananas are full of fiber and all those essential nutrients and are easy on the stomach. It soothes and increases energy quickly. It’s comforting food for a child with a cold. Its nourishment comes with relief.

44. Powdered Pearl Millet Porridge

Pearl millet is a nutrient-rich grain, low in the rate of digestion, high in fiber and protein. It is an energy booster and supports the immune system. Pearl millet porridge is gentle in the stomach. Hence it is an ideal for kids that have a cold and are in dire need of something soothing and effortless to eat.

Beetroot is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, while pearl millet provides fiber and protein. Combined with porridge, they offer a nutrient-dense, soothing meal that is easy on the stomach. This porridge is ideal for children with colds, helping them stay nourished and hydrated while supporting their immune system.

45. Instant Elaichi Wheat Dalia Porridge

Elaichi wheat dalia porridge is one of the quick and comforting dishes that can be prepared for sick kids. Wheat dalia is rich in fiber that can help out with the digestion processes, and cardamom is so soothing on the stomach, helpful in calming it. Warm porridge is easily digestible and provides essential nutrients during a cold.

46. Sabudana Khichdi

Sabudana khichdi is something prepared from tapioca pearls that digest very easily and give quick energy. This is very good for children recovering from a cold. Sabudana is full of carbohydrates, which gives energy, and usually, khichdi is prepared with very little spices, which soothes the stomach.

47. Pongal

A South Indian dish made from rice and lentils that provides both protein and carbohydrates, easy to digest and gentle nourishment to an ailing child. It’s usually flavored with mild spices and ghee; it’s comforting and provides the required energy for a cold.

48. Rice Gruel / Kanji

Kanji or Rice gruel is a light, easy-to-digest dish made from rice and water. Hydrating and soothing for a child with a cold, rice gruel helps to keep the body nourished and hydrated, hence comfortable food for children when they fall ill.

49. Ghee Rice

Ghee rice is a very simple comforting food made with rice and ghee (clarified butter). Ghee would soothe the throat and nourish, while rice would give energy and hydrate. Ghee rice has the advantage of being easily digestible and can prove to be a very harmless meal for kids while recovering from a cold.

50. Idli

Idli is a soft, steamed rice cake made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It is light, easy to digest, and rich in probiotics that help support the immune system. It’s a comforting food option for children when there’s an attack of the cold, and their stomach seems to be bearing the brunt of it.

51. Besan Halwa

Besan halwa is a traditional Indian dessert prepared from chickpea flour, ghee, and sugar. It may offer warmth and energy, which will come in handy when your child’s appetite is low because of some illness. The ghee and besan combination helps nourish and comfort cold-stricken kids.

What Not to Give Your Child During Cold?

So, the above section was all about the home remedies to treat cold & cough in toddlers. Now, let’s see what not to give them during this period, as some foods and beverages can exacerbate symptoms or hinder their recovery. Here’s a list of what not to give your child during a cold to help avoid making their discomfort worse and promote faster healing:

1. Sugary Foods and Drinks

Excess sugar can weaken the immune system and promote inflammation, making it harder for the body to fight the cold. Sugary snacks, candies, sodas, and sweetened fruit juices can also increase mucus production, worsening congestion. Limiting sugary foods and focusing on nourishing, immune-boosting options like fruits and vegetables is best.

2. Caffeinated Beverages

Caffeine, found in sodas, certain teas, and energy drinks, can lead to dehydration. When your child is already losing fluids due to a cold, keeping them hydrated is crucial. Caffeine can also disrupt sleep, which is important for recovery. Stick to water, diluted fruit juices, or warm herbal teas instead.

3. Dairy Products (in excess)

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream can sometimes thicken mucus and exacerbate congestion, particularly in children with sensitive airways. While dairy isn’t harmful to all children, limiting dairy intake may be a good idea if your child struggles with a blocked nose or cough until they feel better.

4. Cold and Frozen Foods

Cold foods like ice cream, popsicles, or chilled drinks can irritate a sore throat and worsen discomfort, especially when the throat is inflamed. Although they may be soothing momentarily, cold foods can cause throat constriction and may not be as helpful as warm or room-temperature foods like soups and broths.

5. Honey (For Children Under 1 Year)

While honey is a natural remedy for soothing coughs and sore throats, it should never be given to infants under one year old. Honey can contain Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause a rare but serious illness called botulism in babies. However, honey can be given in small amounts to older toddlers for its soothing effects.

6. Citrus Juices (in excess)

Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are high in vitamin C, but their acidic nature can irritate a sore throat, especially when it’s already inflamed. If your child is suffering from a sore throat or cough, it’s better to limit the intake of acidic juices, as they can worsen the throat.

7. Processed or Junk Foods

Processed snacks like chips, cookies, and packaged junk food are typically low in nutrients and high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium. These foods provide little to no immune support and can be harder for a sick child to digest. During a cold, stick to wholesome, easy-to-digest foods like soups, rice, or oatmeal.

8. Salty Snacks

Salty foods, such as chips, pretzels, and canned soups, can lead to dehydration, especially when your child is already ill and losing fluids. These snacks can also make your child feel more sluggish or uncomfortable. Opt for foods like fruits and clear broths that help hydrate and nourish the body.

9. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can irritate an already sore throat and trigger coughing. Strong spices like chili peppers, black pepper, or hot mustard can cause discomfort and may worsen symptoms like a runny nose or sore throat. Avoid spicy foods until your child feels better, and stick to mild, soothing meals.

10. Over-the-Counter Cough Medicine (For Young Children)

Many over-the-counter cough and cold medicines are not recommended for children under 6 years old due to the risk of side effects like drowsiness, hyperactivity, or breathing problems. Always consult your pediatrician before giving any cold medicine to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your child’s age.

11. Fried or Greasy Foods

Fried and greasy foods are difficult to digest and may cause stomach upset, especially in children who are already unwell. These foods also provide minimal nutritional value and can make your child feel sluggish. Instead, choose easily digestible, nutritious options like steamed vegetables, rice, or plain pasta.

12. Raw Vegetables

While vegetables are essential for a healthy diet, raw veggies can be tough on a sore throat and may be hard for a sick child to eat. Raw vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers may irritate the throat, so it’s better to serve them cooked or steamed while your child is sick.

13. Unpasteurized Juices or Milk

Unpasteurized juices or milk can contain harmful bacteria that may compromise your child’s immune system, which is already working hard to fight off the cold. Always ensure that milk, juice, and other beverages are pasteurized to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

14. Artificial Sweeteners

Some sugar substitutes found in diet sodas, sugar-free candies, or other “sugar-free” foods may upset your child’s stomach, leading to bloating, gas, or diarrhea. Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose can also negatively impact a child’s gut health, especially when they are already fighting an illness.

Parting Thoughts 

Cold issues are quite common in kids, and they usually resolve on their own with time and rest. While the symptoms—such as congestion, cough, and mild fever—can be uncomfortable, they rarely require medication. Hence, we have discussed some home remedies to treat cold & cough in toddlers. 

It’s important to keep your child hydrated, offer soothing foods, and allow them to rest so their immune system can do its job. However, if symptoms persist or become severe, it’s always best to consult with a pediatrician to ensure your child receives the proper care. With patience and the right remedies, your child can recover quickly and comfortably.