With the TGA restricting standard cough and cold medicines for kids under 12 - and completely pulling pholcodine products off Australian shelves in 2023 - it’s no surprise parents are looking for safer choices.

That’s why I wanted to talk about gentle, effective herbs you can safely use to help your little ones bounce back from coughs, colds, sore throats, and stuffy noses or ears.

HERBAL COUGH SYRUP

I recently came across a herbal cough remedy that features some truly fascinating ingredients.

At the top of the list are Mullein and Hyssop, two fantastic expectorant herbs. They work by loosening stubborn mucus and phlegm from the lungs so your body can clear it out naturally. Plus, they’re wonderfully soothing for those dry, wracking coughs that seem to be everywhere this winter.

Then there’s Thyme. While most of us keep it in the spice rack for roasts and casseroles, it has actually been used for centuries to support chest and respiratory health - making it a power player for bronchitis and lingering coughs.

What ties this formula together is its delicious base: organic New Zealand honey, organic marshmallow extract, apple juice concentrate, apple cider vinegar, and natural orange and lemon oils. The honey and apple juice give it a great taste that’s easy to take. And while the marshmallow root isn't the fluffy campfire treat we love, its extract is incredible for easing irritation and clearing mucus along the respiratory tract.

Best of all, this blend helps soothe your cough without suppressing it entirely. Unlike some conventional medicines that trap mucus and infection inside the body, this formula supports your body’s natural process to clear everything out so you can heal properly.

HERBAL DECONGESTION SYRUP

For kids struggling with sinusitis, stuffed noses, or blocked ears, I love a blend of Elderflower, Ribwort, and Echinacea.

Elderflower thins out heavy mucus to clear upper respiratory congestion, while Ribwort brings antibacterial benefits and relieves catarrh especially when allergies are at play. Paired with immune-boosting Echinacea, it’s a gentle, effective way to help little ones breathe easier.

HERBAL CHEST RUB

To ease head and chest congestion, a soothing chest rub can also work wonders to help clear airways. This hugely popular blend combines six organic essential oils -Thyme, Peppermint, Rosemary, Pine Needle, Eucalyptus, and Lavender - in a nourishing base of organic coconut oil, olive oil, and beeswax. Unlike standard vapour rubs, it’s completely free from parabens, petrochemicals, synthetic fragrances, and preservatives.

Give your child's immune system gentle, effective support this season with these natural remedies!

For more information about cold and flu remedies, drop into Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North Street, Batemans Bay. You can also call us on (02) 4472 9737 or visit us online at www.govitabatemansbay.com.au. Don’t miss our weekly segment on 2EC radio, where Marianne and Go Vita's Nutritionist Sofia chat about health and wellness with Kimmi Saker every Wednesday after 12.30pm.