How to help your children recover form a cold naturally

Hey there mamas!

Already in the middle of the summer! Even in this cooler part of North America where I live, the birds are singing, the grass is lush, the flowers are in full bloom—and unfortunately, colds and viruses are making their rounds. That’s right, with the change of season, we welcome not only the sunshine and longer days, but also a wave of pesky germs.

As a mom of almost twelve years, you’d think I’d be used to it by now. But every time my kids get sick, it still hits me hard. I worry, I lose sleep, and I just want to make it all better. Sound familiar?

Of course, I always consult our pediatrician and follow any prescribed treatments. But over the years, I’ve also gathered a few natural, tried-and-true remedies that help my little ones (and us grown-ups too!) bounce back a bit faster. Here are my favorites:

Chicken Soup: The Classic Comfort

Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of chicken soup when you're under the weather? In our home, it’s the first thing I make when someone starts sniffling. Chicken broth is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is incredibly soothing for sore throats.

My go-to recipe:I simmer chicken with potatoes, onions, garlic (nature’s antibiotic!), carrots, zucchinis, and coriander. If I have them on hand, I’ll toss in pumpkin, celery root, or broccoli. For seasoning, I love adding turmeric or paprika for an extra immune-boosting kick. A drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice at the end makes it perfect.

Eucalyptus: Nature’s Air Purifier

With five people in our household, keeping germs from spreading is a top priority—especially with a toddler in the mix. When it’s too cold to open windows, I rely on eucalyptus essential oil in a diffuser to purify the air. It’s a powerful germ-fighter and helps clear stuffy noses too.

Bonus tip: Boil eucalyptus leaves and inhale the steam. It’s simple, natural, and incredibly effective.

Magic Tea: A Cup of Healing

This one’s not for babies, but if your kids are old enough to handle a bold flavor, try this:Boil honey, lemon, and fresh ginger for about 10 minutes. That’s it! My husband and I drink it twice a day when we’re sick—or even when we feel something coming on. The anti-inflammatory power of these three ingredients combined is amazing. It’s like a warm hug in a mug.

Propolis: My Secret Weapon

If you haven’t heard of propolis, let me introduce you to this natural wonder. Produced by bees to sterilize their hives, propolis has been used since ancient times for its antibacterial and immune-boosting properties. Even Hippocrates swore by it!

You can find it in sprays, syrups, or capsules—alcohol-based or alcohol-free. The taste? Honestly, it’s awful. But the benefits are worth it. My older kids and I take a few drops every morning for prevention, and we increase the dose when we’re feeling sick. It’s safe, natural, and doesn’t interfere with other medications.

Of course, rest and hydration are essential, and nothing replaces the advice of your trusted doctor. But these natural remedies have become staples in our home, helping us get through the sniffles and sneezes of spring a little more smoothly.

Do you have your own go-to natural remedies? I’d love to hear them—share your tips in the comments below!

Take care, Katerina