Croup is characterized by a harsh, repetitive cough similar to the sound of a seal barking. While the condition is not serious, it can be frightening for both parents and children.

Swelling around the vocal cords (larynx) and windpipe (trachea) is basically what causes the loud, harsh cough. When air is forced through the windpipe from the cough reflex, the vocal cords vibrate with a barking noise. The windpipe is especially small in children. Therefore, those under age 5 are most likely to develop croup.

The telltale sign of croup is a loud, harsh, barking cough. Often times, the cough comes in bursts during the night. Fever and a hoarse voice are common, too.

In most cases, croup is caused by the parainfluenza virus. Respiratory syncytial virus, the measles virus or various other viruses cause croup as well but these cases are less common.

By breathing infected respiratory droplets coughed or sneezed into the air, a child may develop a virus. Toys and other surfaces are also a great place for these germs to thrive. Anytime a child comes into contact with a contaminated surface and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth, they may develop an infection.

Croup may be caused by a bacterial infection but this is rare.

The regimen outlined below includes a safe, natural approach to treating croup.

A child with croup should drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus.

Have the child inhale steam from a vaporizer containing a few drops of Eucalyptus oil.

Fresh, cold air can aid swelling reduction in the larynx.

If a child with croup is having trouble breathing, they should see a professional healthcare practitioner immediately.

The supplements listed below can also be helpful:

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (60 mg 4 times daily for children 6-12 months old; 100 mg 4 times daily for ages 1-4; 500 mg 4 times daily for children over 4) - Helps control infection and fever by boosting the immune system.

Zinc (5 mg once daily for 3 days for children 6-12 months; 5 mg twice daily for 3 days for ages 1-3; 5 mg 3 times daily for 3 days for children over 3) - Promotes immune function and aids healing.

Vitamin A with Mixed Carotenoids (2,000 IU daily) - Aids healing of the mucus membranes.

Vitamin E (10 mg daily for children under 3; 20 mg daily for ages 3-6; 50 mg daily for children over 6) - Destroys free radicals and carries oxygen to the cells.

Cod Liver Oil (1 tbsp twice daily in juice) - Can be used in children instead of vitamin A.

Echinacea, Fenugreek, Goldenseal and Thyme are effective in treating croup.

* Important note: Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.