Effective Home Remedies For Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease (HFMD)

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral disease that affects children under 10 years old. The disease is caused by the coxsackievirus and spreads through respiratory secretions, feces, or unwashed hands, leading to rashes, blisters, or ulcers on the hands, feet, mouth, and other areas. The disease usually subsides in a week to ten days without any specific medication or vaccine. However, natural remedies can help your child cope with the symptoms.

Home Remedies for HFMD Symptoms:

Here are some effective home remedies for children with HFMD symptoms:

• Neem:

Neem (Indian Lilac) has antibacterial properties that can help treat viral infections. Apply neem oil on your child's rashes to soothe the skin. You can also grind dried neem leaves and form a paste with water to dab on the blisters and rashes to expedite the healing process. You can blend neem oil with coconut oil and a few drops of lavender oil for topical treatment.

• Salt Water Rinsing and Baths:

To relieve the pain of mouth sores and blisters, have your child rinse his mouth out with warm salt water three to four times a day. Table salt or Himalayan pink salt can be used for rinsing. Pink salt is a superior alternative as it helps maintain the mouth's pH balance. You can also give your child a bath with Epsom salts to calm the rashes on his body and expedite HFMD symptom recovery.

• Apple Cider Vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar contains vitamins B and C, and inulin, which helps increase white blood cell counts, which play a crucial role in fighting infections. Teach your child to gargle with warm water mixed with two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to calm his throat. Use vinegar directly with caution.

• Tulsi or Holy Basil:

Tulsi is a medicinal herb with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Have your child chew on tulsi leaves or drink diluted juice made from the leaves for faster recovery from HFMD.

• Coconut Water:

Coconut water is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and antioxidants. It also contains lauric acid, which has antiviral properties. Coconut water helps hydrate your child and provides relief from discomfort caused by mouth sores.

• Oil Pulling:

Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic technique that promotes oral and overall health. Teach your child to swish a tablespoon of oil in his mouth for five to ten minutes before spitting it out. Oil pulling can help relieve HFMD-related mouth sores.

• Coconut Oil:

Coconut oil has antiviral properties and can treat rashes and blisters by applying it to the affected areas.

• Aloe Vera:

Aloe vera has antimicrobial properties that boost immunity. Apply aloe vera gel to the rashes and blisters to soothe the skin. Giving your child aloe vera juice can help expedite the healing process.

• Lemon Oil:

Lemon oil acts as a disinfectant and can help your child fight off the virus. Add a few drops of lemon oil to your child's body wash or dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it to the skin to nourish it.

• Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help to support the immune system and promote the growth of healthy gut flora. They can also help to reduce inflammation and improve overall digestive health.

Encourage your child to consume probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso soup. You can also give your child probiotic supplements, but be sure to speak with a healthcare professional first.

• Plenty of Rest

Rest is essential for healing and recovery, so encourage your child to get plenty of sleep and rest. Make sure that your child is not overexerting himself and avoid strenuous activities until he has fully recovered from HFMD.

• Fluids

Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial for keeping your child hydrated and flushing out the virus from his system.

Encourage your child to drink water, coconut water, fruit juices, and soups. Avoid giving your child sugary or caffeinated drinks, as these can dehydrate him and make his symptoms worse.

Conclusion

HFMD is highly contagious and affects young children. There's no specific cure, but natural remedies can alleviate symptoms. Rest, fluids, and consulting a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen are also important.

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