Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 9/5/2008

Question
An urgent care doctor recently told a friend of mine to use Ponaris on her 6 year old daughter once a day to keep help prevent common illnesses such as colds. He said it keeps the nose moist and allows it to fight off germs like it is supposed to. However, the bottle says not for children. Can you suggest a nasal emollient that does the same but is safe, such as sesame oil maybe? Thank you so much.

Answer
Sheila,
Thanks for your question.  Sesame oil, almond oil, jojoba, glycerin, or any number of other substances will help keep the nasal passages moist, with the addition of essential oils as in the Ponaris, could be used for this purpose.  I don't think it would make it significantly much safer to use in children, and although I think it might ok to use in some children, it's not the first thing I would try.  Partly because of the matter of compliance which might be more challenging, and also partly because I think this is might not be needed.  Instead, she might try simple nasal irrigation or saline sprays--these would be a lot less irritating and there are types of kits geared for children's use.  It's the same principle as washing the nasal passages & keeping them moist.  
Further, there are lots of other steps she can take to help strength the body's immune system--if that is adequate to start with, exposure to pathogens is less likely to cause symptoms.  This can be done with a diet low in sugar & processed foods, high in fruits & veggies, water, sleep, exercise, & stress management as a basis.  Additional immune support can come from probiotics or naturally cultured foods, echinacea, larch, and other botanicals, and a good quality multivitamin with antioxidants.  Not only will these steps fight against the development of infections, they improve the overall quality of life.  
In health,
Dr Conner