See a doctor if: Severe headache/stiff neck, testicular pain/swelling in boys, abdominal pain, deafness, drowsiness, or high fever — see a doctor promptly (complications need care)
Kitchen remedies
Soft, non-sour foods; plenty of fluids; warm or cool compress to the swollen gland for comfort; rest; isolate to prevent spread
Featured herbs
Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Neem (Azadirachta indica) [external paste], Aloe vera, Ginger
How to prepare
A traditional external paste of turmeric (or neem) applied over the swollen gland is used for comfort. Warm/cool compress as preferred. Soft bland diet; avoid sour/citrus that stings the glands.
Cautions
Mumps is a vaccine-preventable viral infection — external pastes are comfort measures only. Keep the child isolated. Avoid neem internally.
Related remedies
Colic & Gas in Infants (traditional, cautious)Teething Discomfort in Babies (traditional, cautious)Bedwetting in Children (supportive)Diaper Rash (babies, gentle)Cradle Cap (infant scalp, gentle)Whooping Cough (children, supportive)Fever in Children (supportive care, referral)Cough & Cold in Children (supportive)
When to see a doctor. Home remedies are for minor, self-limiting complaints in adults. They are not a substitute for medical care, and herbs can interact with medicines. Not for children under the ages stated, in pregnancy, or with chronic conditions without a doctor's advice.
