Amid rising concerns over the safety of pediatric cough syrups, Ayurvedic experts are emphasizing traditional herbal remedies as a safe and effective alternative for managing cough and cold in children. The reassurance comes after reports of child fatalities in Madhya Pradesh allegedly linked to contaminated cough syrups.
Advisory on Cough Syrup Use in Children
Following these incidents, the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) issued an advisory on October 3, cautioning against the prescription of cough and cold medications for children under two years of age. The advisory further stated that cough syrups are not generally recommended for children below five years, and should be used only under strict medical supervision for older children. It also urged healthcare professionals to ensure judicious prescription and rational use of such medicines, avoiding drug combinations and limiting treatment duration.
Ayurvedic Remedies Offer Safe, Natural Relief
Dr. R. P. Parasher, National President of the All India Doctors Association of Indian System, addressed the growing apprehensions and stated that parents can safely administer Ayurvedic cough syrups, herbs, and home remedies to children over two years old.
“Ayurvedic formulations have no harmful side effects and are completely safe for children when used appropriately,” said Dr. Parasher.
As reported by The Week, he explained that Ayurvedic cough syrups typically contain herbs like basil, amaranth, licorice, kakadsingi, bharangi, pushkarmool, baheda, mint, long pepper, black pepper, cinnamon, bay leaf, and talispatra—all known for their soothing and immunity-boosting properties.
Gentle Home Remedies for Infants and Young Children
For infants below six months, Dr. Parasher advised gently massaging the chest with slightly warmed ghee or oil to ease congestion. Additionally, mothers are encouraged to avoid consuming foods that increase “kapha” and “dosha”, as these may contribute to respiratory discomfort in infants.
For children above six months, he recommended milk boiled with basil, ginger, cloves, black pepper, and dates, then strained before consumption.
“This herbal milk strengthens immunity and provides quick relief from coughs and colds,” Dr. Parasher explained.
He also suggested administering Sitopaladi and Talishadi powders mixed with honey, or Ayurvedic medicines such as Vasavaleha and Agastya Haritaki, describing them as completely safe and effective options for pediatric cough and cold management.
Importance of Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments
Echoing these views, Dr. Pradeep Kumar Prajapati, Director of the All India Institute of Ayurveda, Delhi, highlighted that minor dietary and lifestyle changes can prevent and manage seasonal respiratory issues in children.
“Children often develop cough and cold due to allergic reactions during seasonal transitions,” Dr. Prajapati noted. “Simple steps like maintaining a warm diet, ensuring adequate hydration, and avoiding cold or heavy foods can help. Even home remedies such as hot turmeric milk and steam inhalation are often sufficient for mild cases.”
A Safer, Holistic Approach to Pediatric Care
As the healthcare community re-evaluates the safety of chemical-based cough syrups, Ayurvedic experts are calling for a shift toward holistic, plant-based treatments that focus on strengthening natural immunity and reducing dependency on synthetic medications.
By integrating traditional wisdom with modern caution, Ayurvedic remedies present a safe, effective, and time-tested solution for children’s respiratory health—particularly in light of the recent concerns surrounding the quality of conventional cough syrups.