Doctors Warn: Home Remedies Can Cause Burns and Other Damage in Babies

"Even home remedies and supposedly natural remedies can - if used improperly - lead to serious damage," said Bernhard Jochum, head of the federal specialist group of pediatricians in the Medical Association and board member of the ÖGKJ. Parents with young children should consult a pediatrician or adolescent doctor in advance to find out which measures are harmless.

Warning About Home Remedies for Babies: Vinegar Wraps Also Dangerous

Menthol, mustard seeds, pepper, walnut shells, rosemary, true laurel, buttercup, and pasque flowers can cause burns in wraps - whether as oil, crushed, or chopped - with prolonged contact with the skin. Since the skin of young children is very sensitive, the application of these plant components can cause damage earlier than in adults. The sulfur compounds in garlic when applied directly to the skin can also cause burns. The acid in vinegar can cause irritation even at low concentrations, according to the ÖGKJ.

Special caution is advised with babies. "Cooling calf wraps for fever are only suitable for children from six months and should only be applied briefly to young children. The child must not be 'shocked' by the cold water or freeze. Curd wraps can be used as a supportive measure for fever, cough, and pneumonia," said Bernhard Jochum, a pediatrician from Bludenz.

(APA/Red.)

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