Ask the expert: How do I boost my child's immunity?

My three-year-old frequently falls ill with cold, cough, chest congestion etc. A small cup of ice cream will give him a sore throat, which leads to fever and cough. Is there a way to boost his immunity through Ayurveda?



There are several treatments in Ayurveda that can help your child. Using herbal and dietary guidelines to treat common cold or flu in children is an effective means of supporting and strengthening their immune system.

In Ayurveda, common cold is often associated with the cold and damp qualities of kapha and ama (toxins) that cause symptoms such as nasal and chest congestion, low appetite and sometimes mild to moderate fever.

When he has fever, he should rest and drink plenty of warm liquids. This will help expel the toxins. If his appetite is poor, do not force-feed him as this could contribute to the formation of toxins.

Warm ginger tea and tulsi tea (tea boiled with a few tulsi leaves) can help soothe a cough, decongest the lungs and sinuses, as well as lower fever. But in case of high fevers, you need to consult a doctor immediately.

Amla (commonly available in Indian supermarkets) is known to have high vitamin C content, and eating a few of these berries regularly can build up the body’s immunity. Certain Ayurvedic formulations made with herbs and amla can also be prescribed for this purpose.

Ayurvedic preparations like Draksharishta and Kushmanda Rasayana can also help boost immunity in children. However, please consult an Ayurvedic practitioner if the colds and coughs persist.