The common cold is the most common illness in children, but when a baby has a stuffy nose and cough that won't go away, moms may feel helpless. They may want to give their baby medicine, but worry about the potential side effects. In this situation, using traditional Chinese massage therapy to treat a child's stuffy nose and cough is the best option. But how exactly is it done?
First, have the baby sit on your lap. Gently hold the baby's feet with both hands and massage the area between the first and second bones of the big toe, on the inner side of the foot. Massage lightly for 5 minutes, 3 times a day. Note that the inner side of the big toe is not the sole of the foot, but the area opposite the other foot.
This method is very effective in the early stages of a cold. If the cold worsens, you can continue the massage while also using medication. This will help speed up the recovery process, not only for adults but also for babies.
1. Rub the Small Horizontal Line
Location: The small horizontal line is below the palm's little finger crease and above the palm crease.
Function: Clears heat, resolves congestion, and relieves cough and phlegm.
Repetitions: 300-500 times
2. Rub the Middle of the Chest Acupoint
Location: The middle of the chest acupoint is at the midpoint of a line connecting the nipples.
Function: Relieves cough and phlegm, and promotes smooth breathing.
Repetitions: 50-100 times
3. Clear the Lung Meridian
Location: Use the index finger of the hand to push along the lung meridian from the base to the tip.
Function: Clears the lungs and relieves cough.
Repetitions: 300-500 times
4. Four Horizontal Lines
Location: The four horizontal lines are on the palm, at the creases of the joints of the index, middle, ring, and little fingers.
Function: Opens the chest, resolves stagnation, and transforms phlegm and saliva.
Repetitions: 300-500 times
5. Hold the Heavenly Pillar Acupoint
Location: The heavenly pillar acupoint is located in the neck, on the midline, between the clavicles.
Function: Treats inflammation in the throat, relieves cough, and transforms phlegm.
Repetitions: 100-300 times
