Research with 2,000 UK parents, conducted by CALPOL® UK, sheds light on which methods for treating children’s illnesses have been passed down through different generations.
One in three parents surveyed believe that applying cold packs can help to reduce a fever and that warm milk before bed can help with sleep. However, when it comes to feeding an unwell child, one in four parents think that chicken soup can help cure a cold, while one in five believe the method of “starving a fever, feeding a cold” is effective.
But how accurate are these popular beliefs?
Vitamin C helps cure a cold. While Vitamin C doesn't cure the common cold, some research suggests it may reduce the severity and duration of symptoms1. But it’s not a guaranteed treatment.
Gargling salt water. It is a tried and tested remedy that can help soothe a sore throat and reduce bacteria2. It doesn't cure colds but provides relief and helps prevent infections from worsening.
Using nasal irrigation to relieve congestion. Nasal irrigation can be an effective way to clear out mucus and alleviate congestion3, providing temporary relief without medication.
Applying cold packs/compresses to reduce fever. Cold packs may reduce body temperature temporarily helping to alleviate symptoms, but they won’t tackle the cause of a fever4. Although it may seem counterintuitive, NHS guidance also states not to undress your child or sponge them down to cool them – a high temperature is a natural and healthy response to infection.
Warm milk before bed. Warm milk may provide comfort and relaxation, helping children fall asleep more easily, but it doesn’t have any medicinal properties to directly cure illness5.
Chicken soup helps cure a cold. Chicken soup won't cure a cold, but it can help by hydrating the body and providing nutrients6. The steam from the hot soup may also help open nasal passages, offering temporary relief from congestion.
Avoiding dairy to aid quicker recovery. Phlegm, the thick mucus from a cold, may feel thicker when consuming dairy, but dairy does not increase phlegm production7.
Using amber beads helps with teething pain. Even containing real Baltic amber, there’s no evidence they release succinic acid or have any anti-inflammatory effects8.
Nearly one in four parents (39%) report continuing the same treatment methods with their children as they had when they were younger. However, some methods such as steam inhalation are less popular today, while the use of screen time has seen an increase (+7%).
Natalia Stadnyk, Marketing Director Cough, Cold & Pain for Northern Europe at CALPOL® UK, said: “Our survey has shown that often traditional remedies pass down through generations. While they bring comfort and care to children when they’re unwell, they should be balanced with evidence-based treatments.”
“For over 50 years we’ve been committed to developing gentle yet effective products to help relieve various symptoms in children when they are unwell. Over-the-counter medications can offer significant relief, but sometimes it is important to consult a doctor to ensure children receive the best possible care.”
Find out more information about the survey on the CALPOL® UK website here.
For medical advice and information on treating children's illnesses, please consult a healthcare professional or visit the NHS website www.nhs.uk. Always follow guidance from healthcare experts when using over-the-counter medication.