Natural cough remedies for children
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Natural Cough Remedies for Children: Key Options and Evidence
Herbal Remedies for Pediatric Cough: Ivy Leaf Extract and Other Botanicals
Herbal medicines are increasingly used to treat acute cough in children, especially those caused by viral respiratory infections. Among these, ivy leaf extract (Hedera helix L.) stands out for its expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Clinical studies and meta-analyses have shown that ivy leaf extract can significantly reduce cough intensity and frequency, with high parental satisfaction and a good safety profile in children. Over 20 clinical trials support its effectiveness, particularly for upper respiratory tract infections in pediatric patients. Ivy leaf extract is also compatible with other medications, making it suitable for combination therapy if needed 13.
Other herbal remedies, such as Pelargonium sidoides and multicomponent products containing Plantago lanceolata, Grindelia robusta, Helichrysum italicum, and honey, have some evidence supporting their use, but more rigorous studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in children .
Honey as a Natural Cough Remedy: Efficacy and Safety
Honey is one of the most studied and widely used natural remedies for acute cough in children. Multiple systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials have found that honey probably reduces cough frequency and severity better than no treatment, placebo, and diphenhydramine, and is about as effective as dextromethorphan, a common over-the-counter cough suppressant. Honey also appears to improve sleep quality for both children and their parents 67810.
Adverse effects from honey are rare and generally mild, such as minor gastrointestinal symptoms or mild nervousness. However, honey should not be given to children under one year of age due to the risk of infant botulism 68.
Honey-Based and Multicomponent Syrups
Natural syrups based on honey and essential oils, such as Pranabb® syrup, have shown effectiveness in reducing both daytime and nighttime cough, as well as improving sleep quality for children and their parents. These syrups are considered safe and well-tolerated in pediatric use, though more large-scale studies are needed for confirmation .
Other Natural Compounds and Considerations
Other natural substances, such as glycerol and menthol, are sometimes used to manage cough in children, but robust evidence for their effectiveness is lacking. Most coughs in children are self-limiting, and treatment may not always be necessary. Parents and caregivers should be cautious with dosing and avoid unnecessary or multiple remedies to reduce the risk of adverse events 259.
Conclusion
Natural remedies, especially honey and ivy leaf extract, have moderate-quality evidence supporting their use for acute cough relief in children. Honey is effective for reducing cough frequency and improving sleep, while ivy leaf extract offers additional expectorant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Other herbal and natural products may help, but more research is needed to confirm their safety and efficacy. Parents should consult healthcare providers before starting any remedy, and always avoid honey in infants under one year old.
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