The Best Baby Cold Remedies—And The Ones You Should Avoid

There are many cold remedies on pharmacy and health store shelves labelled as homeopathic, but these, like other natural health products, are not as strictly regulated as pharmaceuticals. “There is no convincing evidence that they work, and they may pose a risk,” says Dr. Dina Kulik, pediatrician, emergency medicine doctor and CEO of Kidcrew health clinic in Toronto.

Essential oils are another popular home remedy, but they can be toxic. President of the Canadian Association of Midwives, C.J. Blennerhassett, recommends against using them in a baby’s humidifier or anywhere near a baby because no studies demonstrate their value or safety.