I have been learning so much in the last 1-2 years regarding natural healing options and ways to naturally boost our immune systems so they can do what they were designed to do. Getting sick isn't necessarily a bad thing, as it builds immunity, but I hate to see members of my family sick.
This year especially, I have taken extra precautions with a newborn baby in our home.
I am not a doctor, and don't pretend to be. I am sharing with you what has worked well for us (some times better then other times) and expect that you would do your own research if you chose to try any of these methods.
So this post is specifically speaking to the sniffles/runny noses/scratchy throat. When my kids show up with a runny nose there are a few things I do immediately.
Saline Spray
I am sure if you are a parent, you have heard of this from your kids doctor. It works very well to loosen and help remove the snot and mucus. So, generally, I start with saline spray and try to help loosen any of the build up they have.
Epsom Salt Baths
We then move onto a nice warm Epsom Salt bath. My kids LOVE this. Epsom salt when in water breaks down to magnesium and sulfate. Are you familiar with what magnesium does? The short is that magnesium helps flush out toxins from your body! (This can be done if you are taking antibiotics as well to help get the toxins out.)
I got the lavender this time around but generally don't get scented because my kids have sensitive skin.
Essential Oils
I have been learning so much recently about essential oils. Since I consider myself new to the world of natural healing when I see these things work... I am amazed and my belief builds. Again, when using oils from a good reputable company, you will be getting the plant or blend in its most natural state- the way God intended. (He really did provide us with everything we need, if we know how to use it!)
So daily we diffuse Thieves and I put on the kids before they go to school or the gym. When they are sick we diffuse, apply to feet/spine and I will add in a blend of Lavender/Lemon and Peppermint. I am new to the oils world but I love how I see them work! There are so many more I look forward to trying!
Colloidal Silver
There are many opinions on this particular topic- so please do your research. We do not use this on a daily basis, in fact, it is ONLY used when sicknesses are apparent. Having said that, I have seen it work with my own eyes.
From a friend..."Silver Hydrosol or Structured Silver can be used internally, (throat, viruses, mouth issues, in ear for ear infection, directly in the eyes for eye infections, sprayed in nose for sinus infections) and externally (minor cuts and burns, all sorts of rashes, skin issues and acne) It can also be used in a nebulizers to quickly kill off bronchial infections!"
Multivitamin/Probiotic
We are very religious in giving them their combo multivitamin and probiotic. They do not eat a super balanced diet (working on that, my son loves carbs) so I find it very important to be sure they are getting the vitamins they need. I am passionate about probiotics and what they do, adding good bacteria into my kids gut. This boosts the immune system and allows it to fight the cold.
This also helps keeping both my toddlers regular- removing the toxins, bad bacterias and viruses from their bodies. In our house, we poop at least 1x a day! Anything less is not enough.
Rest
Depending on the severity of the cold, will depend on how much I make them rest. If it is just a runny nose, we stick to our normal nap time/quiet time routines and normal bed times. If they act sick and I see a difference in their behavior, they will be allow more TV time and rest time for the day. It is absolutely necessary to get a good night sleep, if not more hours, when fighting something. During sleep is when our body is allowed to focus on just that!
Diet
I am still learning every day about God given foods and how they were created directly for good in our bodies. Sadly, our culture processes and pesticides EVERYTHING! (end soapbox...for now) When my kids are fighting something I am extra thoughtful in giving them healthy, high nutrient dense foods. I eliminate or greatly decrease dairy and all processed foods, giving them as many fruits and veggies (difficult) as I can.
Humidifier
The good ole humidifier! Especially in the beginning of the winter when the heat make the house feel dry. We have one in every room (including ours). These are a big deal! We generally run them even when we are healthy. This helps keep nasal passages open and clear, reduces coughing and sneezing and can help with faster healing time.
There is SO much more to explore in the word of natural options...the next things I am reading and trying are Elderberry, Ginger and Oregano!!! I'll report back when I know more :)
