Washington, Oct 29 : Wondering how to treat your kid’s cough and cold without using medicines? Well, a little honey and lemon in hot water will do the trick for your little one, says a leading health expert.

Parents concerned about the safety and effectiveness of over-the-counter pediatric cough and cold medicines often opt for home remedies.

“A cold is caused by a virus that cannot be killed by an antibiotic,” said Jacqueline Kaari, a pediatrician and chair of pediatrics at the UMDNJ-School of Osteopathic Medicine.

“Nothing, including over-the-counter cough and cold medicines, will make it go away faster, but you can treat the symptoms,” she added.

Kaari suggests that making them drink honey and lemon in hot water or decaffeinated tea can effectively cure their cough.

For kids suffering from cold steam, such as shower steam, will help loosen secretions.

A good nutrition and drinking plenty of liquids would also work effectively.

Use of cool mist humidifier to moisturize air passageways or throat lozenges to relieve sore throat when age appropriate, would help in faster recovery.

Kaari also urges parents to keep children home from school for one to three days and for at least 24 hours after they have had a fever.

She suggested that using Tylenol, following the recommended dosage instructions could be effective for a fever. (ANI)