If you’re a parent, you’ll likely agree that seeing your children unwell is one of the most distressing experiences, even if it’s just a common cold. While there are numerous medicines available to alleviate symptoms, often people swear by various old wives’ tales remedies.
A woman named Madina, known online as the ‘Mum hack guru’, took to TikTok to share her top five old wives’ tales which she adheres to whenever her children feel under the weather. Firstly, she was seen freezing a large bowl of water until solid.
The mum then places this in her child’s bedroom to cool the air, potentially aiding the child’s breathing. Next, Madina was seen applying a thin layer of iodine solution to the underside of her child’s foot.
Topical iodine is used to prevent and treat infections that may occur in minor scrapes and cuts. It works by killing bacteria which can cause infections.
However, there is no evidence that applying it to the sole of someone’s foot will ensure accurate absorption into the body. She then utilised baby-safe vapour rub, but instead of applying it to her son, she placed a dollop of it into a candle and spread it out before lighting the candle.
Lastly, Madina took a sock and filled it with rice to create a homemade heating pad which she microwaved to warm before placing it in the crib with her baby. Despite the video amassing thousands of views, several viewers were critical of Madina’s methods.
One individual warned: “The candle is super unsafe. Put the Vic in a humidifier,” provoking a response from another who advised: “Don’t put it on either! It doesn’t break down like you think and clogs the humidifiers filter,” suggesting the use of a wax melt burner instead. Adding to the discourse, someone mentioned: “The rice does work at a heating pad of sorts we use them all the time. However… DO NOT USE MINUTE/INSTANT RICE. It will burn and/or catch fire pretty much the first time you microwave it.”
Another voice suggested: “Maybe some medicine? Or a doctor.”
It’s important to remember there’s no scientific backing for these suggestions, and one should seek advice from a medical professional if a child falls ill.