Hi Sir,

My daughter is 8 years old and she is having dry cough. Day time it's less but night time it is severe since a week. We are using Ascoril LS and levocetrizene but not reduced coughing at night. Please suggest.

Question

Hi Sir,

My daughter is 8  years old and she is having dry cough. Day time it's less but night time it is severe since a week. We are using Ascoril LS and levocetrizene but not reduced coughing at night. Please suggest.

Accepted Answer

For a child experiencing night-time dry coughing, here are some Indian home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms and provide relief:

1. **Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh):** Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help soothe the throat and reduce coughing. Mix a pinch of turmeric powder in warm milk and give it to your child before bedtime.

2. **Ginger and Honey Tea:** Ginger has natural cough-suppressant properties, while honey helps soothe the throat. Prepare a mild ginger tea by boiling crushed ginger in water, strain, and add a teaspoon of honey. Allow it to cool slightly before giving it to your child.

3. **Steam Inhalation:** Steam inhalation can help loosen mucus and relieve congestion. Sit with your child in a steamy bathroom for a few minutes before bedtime, or use a humidifier in their room to keep the air moist.

4. **Warm Salt Water Gargle:** Gargling with warm salt water can help reduce throat inflammation and soothe irritation. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and have your child gargle with it before bedtime.

5. **Honey and Tulsi (Holy Basil) Leaves:** Tulsi leaves have antimicrobial properties, while honey helps soothe the throat and suppress coughing. Crush a few fresh tulsi leaves and extract the juice. Mix the juice with honey and give it to your child before bedtime.

6. **Ajwain (Carom Seeds) Steam Inhalation:** Boil water with ajwain seeds and allow your child to inhale the steam. Ajwain has expectorant properties that can help relieve cough and congestion.

7. **Warm Turmeric Water:** Mix a pinch of turmeric powder in warm water and have your child sip it slowly before bedtime. Turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce throat irritation and coughing.

8. **Eucalyptus Oil Massage:** Dilute eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil and gently massage it onto your child's chest and back before bedtime. Eucalyptus oil has decongestant properties that can help relieve coughing and congestion.

9. **Elevate Head while Sleeping:** Prop up your child's head with an extra pillow or elevate the head end of their bed slightly to help reduce postnasal drip and ease coughing during the night.

10. **Hydration:** Ensure your child stays well-hydrated by offering plenty of fluids throughout the day, such as water, herbal teas, or clear soups.

Remember to consult with a pediatrician if your child's cough persists or if they have other concerning symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or high fever. These home remedies are meant to provide temporary relief and should not replace medical treatment when necessary.