Can children with coughs eat waxberries?
Jun 09, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Non-irritating dry cough, such as cough during recovery from common cold, without significant phlegm or wheezing, and when the infant is in good general condition and has normal digestive function, a small amount of Chinese bayberry (Myrica rubra) may be consumed. Chinese bayberry contains vitamin C and water; moderate consumption may help replenish body fluids, but attention should be paid to the method of consumption. It is not recommended for allergic cough or when accompanied by gastrointestinal sensitivity.
Generally, when a baby coughs, if the cough is non-irritating and dry without gastrointestinal discomfort, a small amount of waxberry may be cautiously tried. However, waxberry is not recommended for allergic cough or when accompanied by gastrointestinal sensitivity. If in doubt, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider in advance. Detailed explanation is as follows:
For non-irritating dry cough, such as during the recovery phase of a common cold, when there is no obvious phlegm or wheezing, the baby's mental state is good, and digestion is normal, a small amount of waxberry may be consumed. Waxberries contain vitamin C and moisture, and consuming a small amount might help replenish body fluids, but attention should be paid to the method of consumption. It is recommended to wash the waxberries thoroughly, remove the pits, and prepare them as waxberry juice or fruit puree. Each serving should be about 1-2 teaspoons. Monitor whether the baby's cough worsens or any gastrointestinal discomfort occurs. If no adverse reaction occurs after consumption, small amounts may be continued to help relieve throat discomfort.
For babies whose cough is caused by allergens such as pollen or dust mites, as described in this allergy article, and is accompanied by symptoms such as nasal itching, runny nose, repeated dry cough, or gastrointestinal sensitivity, eating waxberries is not recommended. The fruit acids in waxberries may irritate the throat mucosa, triggering or worsening the cough, and the acidic components may also irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to digestive disturbances. In such cases, allergens should be avoided primarily, and the diet should mainly consist of bland, easily digestible liquid or semi-liquid foods. When necessary, medical attention should be sought to identify the cause and provide targeted treatment.
When feeding waxberries to a baby during a coughing episode, the type of cough and the baby's physical condition should be considered, with the prerequisite being no additional burden on the respiratory or digestive systems, and the amount and method of consumption should be chosen with caution.
