About pneumonia - #5898

For persistent cough (khasi) after pneumonia, Ayurveda suggests soothing and strengthening the respiratory system. Prepare a warm drink with honey (only if the child is over 1 year old), a pinch of turmeric, and lukewarm water to soothe the throat. Herbal remedies like tulsi (holy basil), vasa (Malabar nut), and mulethi (licorice) can help reduce cough and clear mucus. Boil tulsi leaves with a little ginger and black pepper in water, strain, and give in small, warm sips. Ensure your child avoids cold or fried foods and stays warm. Steam inhalation with plain water may also help. Consult a pediatric Ayurvedic doctor for proper guidance.

It sounds like your little one is still dealing with some after-effects of pneumonia, that cough (khasi) can be a bit stubborn sometimes. Ayurveda suggests gentle methods to support healing, ensuring they’re safe and suitable for a 4-year-old.

First, we gotta take a closer look at his diet. Focus on warm, cooked foods that are easy on his digestion — think moong dal khichdi, soft rice, or lightly spiced soups. Avoid cold and very oily or spicy foods as they can trigger vata imbalance and might prolong the cough. Turmeric milk (haldi doodh), with a small pinch of black pepper, could help. Just mix a quarter teaspoon of turmeric in warm milk, it can be given before bedtime in small quantities.

Herbs like tulsi and ginger can support his lungs. You could boil a few tulsi leaves with a slice of ginger in a cup of water, reduce till half, and offer it to him once cooled down to a comfy temperature. Just a couple of teaspoons, no need to force a big quantity.

As for lifestyle, keep him warm but not overly bundled up. Gentle massages with warm sesame oil could help calm any remaining cough naggingness. You can give him a light chest rub using this oil, ideally warmed a lil bit (check first it’s not too hot though!).

And, while it may sound simple, ensure he stays hydrated with warm water or herbal teas, no cold drinks. Little sips throughout the day, not just big gulps.

But hey, if he seems uncomfortable or his cough worsens, it’s really important to check in with a pediatrician just to be safe. Sometimes, a cough can stick around and best to make sure nothing more is going on. Always trust your instincts as a parent.

Let me know if there’s more I can help with, these kiddos keep us on our toes with their little health surprises!