With the Chinese New Year festive season fast approaching, parents of multiples in Singapore are no strangers to the worry that comes with kids falling ill. In the midst of celebrations, late nights, and the inevitable sugar overload, keeping our little ones healthy becomes a top priority. If your household is battling lingering coughs, here's a simple, natural remedy that has been a lifesaver for many parents. This natural remedy is safe for babies, toddlers, and especially helpful for families with twins, triplets, or many children.
In this article, Jasmine Fang, a dedicated mom to two toddlers, and Wang Jiayi, a loving aunt, share their proven home remedies along with helpful notes for parents.
A,G,O – The Ingredients
Yes, you guessed it right! A=Apple, G=Garlic, O=Onion
- 1 Apple
- A handful of Garlic cloves (around 6 pieces)
- 1 red Onion (use half if it’s very large)
Preparation Method 1: The Traditional Way
1. Chop the apple and onion into smaller pieces.
2. Place them around an upside-down bowl in the center of a steaming dish.
3. Add the garlic cloves to the dish.Steam the setup for 30 minutes.
4. After steaming, discard the apple, onion, and garlic.
5. Remove the bowl and collect the juice.
6. Let it cool slightly and serve the juice to your child.
Preparation Method 2: The Enhanced Method
For an added boost, Jiayi's method is to freeze the ingredients before steaming. Freezing helps break down the cells of the fruits and garlic, allowing them to release more liquid during the steaming process. Follow the same steps as above after freezing.
Also, her pro tip is to slice the ingredients finely to get more juice out of them!
Why This Works
- Apple: Known for its soothing properties, apples help to calm irritation in the throat.
- Onion: A natural expectorant, onions can help loosen phlegm and ease coughs.
- Garlic: Packed with antimicrobial properties, garlic helps to combat infections and strengthen the immune system.
When to Use This Remedy
This soothing cough remedy is ideal for:
- Lingering dry or phlegmy coughs that don’t seem to go away.
- Supporting your child’s recovery from a recent illness.
- Preventative care during colder months or festive seasons when illnesses are more common.
A Parent’s Tip for Success
Incorporate this remedy into your child’s routine a few days before the Chinese New Year festivities. It’s also a great way to bond in the kitchen as you prepare the ingredients together.
Here’s to a healthier, happier, and more enjoyable festive season for you and your family in Singapore!
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A big thank you to Jasmine and Jiayi for their generous sharing! Wish to be featured or have any tips to share with our parenting community? Drop us a note here!
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Article cover image by Julia Filirovska