Nasal saline flushes, or irrigation, are very useful in the treatment of respiratory allergies and sinus infections. They cleanse the sinuses and the tissues that line the nasal passages, as well as soothing the mucous membranes and thinning mucus.
Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8teaspoon of baking soda in 4 ounces of water. Spray the mixture inside your child's nose with a bulb syringe, or, for an infant, instill several drops into the nose with an eyedropper. If you are using this technique to clear nasal congestion, you can then suck out the mucus with a bulb syringe. If you are using it to soothe and moisten the mucous membranes, do not suction out mucus afterward.
From Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child by Janet Zand, N.D., L.Ac., Robert Rountree, MD, Rachel Walton, RN, ©1994. Published by Avery Publishing, New York. For personal use only; neither the digital nor printed copy may be copied or sold. Reproduced by permission.