Best Mumps Treatments for Kids and Adults: Natural Remedies

Mumps is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the salivary glands, especially the parotid glands located near your ears. When infected, these glands swell and cause noticeable puffiness and pain. Although mumps has become less common due to widespread vaccination, outbreaks still occur in areas with low immunization coverage. The mumps virus, known scientifically as Rubulavirus, spreads through saliva and respiratory secretions.

This article delves deep into the best mumps treatments for both kids and adults, especially natural remedies backed by science. These treatments aim to ease discomfort, reduce swelling, and support the body’s immune response. Whether you're a parent of an affected child or an adult managing the illness, understanding effective natural remedies can help in a smoother recovery.

What Are the Symptoms of Mumps?

Before we dive into treatments, it's important to recognize the common symptoms of mumps:

* Swollen, painful salivary glands (especially the parotid glands)

* Fever

* Headache

* Muscle aches

* Fatigue and weakness

* Loss of appetite

* Pain while chewing or swallowing

Mumps symptoms typically appear 16-18 days after exposure and can last for 7–10 days.

Scientific Overview: How Mumps Affects the Body

Mumps is caused by a single-stranded, negative-sense RNA virus. It primarily infects the salivary glands but can also affect other organs such as the pancreas, testes, ovaries, and even the brain. The immune response triggered by the virus is what causes swelling and inflammation.

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) remains the best prevention. However, once infected, supportive care is the only option since there's no specific antiviral treatment for mumps. This is where natural remedies come in.

Also_Read: Measles Prevention: Simple Steps That Work Today

  

Top Natural Remedies for Mumps in Kids and Adults

Here are the most effective and science-backed natural treatments for mumps that help reduce symptoms and promote healing.

1. Warm or Cold Compress

how it helps:

Applying a warm compress helps improve blood circulation, ease muscle stiffness, and reduce pain around swollen salivary glands. Alternatively, a cold compress can numb the area, reduce inflammation, and relieve discomfort. Both methods offer quick, natural relief from swelling and tenderness caused by mumps, making them ideal home remedies for kids and adults.

How to Use:

*Soak a soft cloth in warm water and apply it to the swollen area for 10–15 minutes.

*Alternatively, wrap ice in a towel and place it on the swelling for 10 minutes.

 

2. Hydration and Rest

Scientific Insight

Hydration flushes out toxins and maintains fluid balance, which is vital during a viral infection like mumps. Rest allows the immune system to focus its energy on fighting the virus. Scientific studies confirm that adequate sleep boosts white blood cell activity, speeding up recovery. Together, hydration and rest form the foundation of natural healing for mumps.

Tips:

*Encourage fluid intake through herbal teas, warm water, and clear broths.

*Avoid acidic drinks like orange juice as they can irritate the salivary glands.

Best Herbal Teas:

*Chamomile: Anti-inflammatory

*Ginger: Boosts immunity

*Peppermint: Relieves discomfort

Also_Read: Best Malaria Home Remedies: Natural Relief Options That Work

 

3. Indian Lilac (Neem)

Neem is renowned for its powerful antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its bioactive compounds like nimbidin and azadirachtin help combat viral infections such as mumps by boosting the immune response and reducing glandular swelling. Applying neem paste externally can soothe inflamed areas, while its antimicrobial action prevents secondary infections, making it an effective natural remedy for kids and adults.

Usage:

*Crush neem leaves and makes a paste with turmeric.

*Apply to the swollen area twice a day.

Scientific Support: Studies show neem contains bioactive compounds like nimbidin and azadirachtin which have immunomodulatory effects.

 

4. Turmeric and Sandalwood Paste

Why it Works

Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral compound that helps reduce swelling and fight infection in mumps. Sandalwood has natural cooling and soothing effects, easing discomfort and skin irritation. When combined, this paste calms inflamed salivary glands, speeds up healing, and prevents secondary infections—making it a safe, effective remedy for both kids and adults.

How to Use:

*Mix 1 tsp of turmeric with sandalwood powder and water.

*Apply gently to swollen glands; rinse after 20 minutes.

Bonus: This paste also prevents secondary bacterial infections due to constant touching or scratching.

Also_Read: Natural Remedies for Leucoderma: Do They Work? | 7 Safe Home Treatments

 

5. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. When applied to swollen areas caused by mumps, it cools the skin, reduces irritation, and eases pain. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, aloe vera also supports tissue repair and boosts immunity, making it a gentle and effective natural remedy for mumps in both kids and adults.

Application:

*Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the leaf.

*Gently massage it on the swollen area twice a day.

 

6. Fenugreek Seeds (Methi)

Fenugreek seeds possess strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with mumps. When used as a paste, they soothe inflamed salivary glands. Drinking fenugreek tea also supports internal healing by boosting immunity and flushing out toxins. This natural remedy is safe and beneficial for both children and adults recovering from mumps.

How to Use:

*Soak 1 tbsp fenugreek seeds in water overnight.

*Grind into a paste and apply to the swollen glands.

*Leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing.

Alternative: Drink fenugreek tea to help boost internal healing.

 

7. Vitamin C-Rich Foods

Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, helping the body fight off viral infections like mumps more effectively. Non-acidic sources such as amla, guava, and kiwi provide antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support tissue repair. Including these fruits in the diet accelerates recovery, making Vitamin C-rich foods a vital natural remedy for kids and adults battling mumps.

Good Sources:

*Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

*Guava

*Kiwi

*Bell peppers

Tip: Opt for non-acidic sources of Vitamin C to avoid irritating swollen glands.

 

8. Garlic Oil Massage

Garlic contains allicin, a potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce swelling and fight infection. Massaging warm garlic-infused oil onto swollen glands boosts circulation, relieves pain, and supports healing. This natural remedy is especially soothing for children and adults with mumps, offering gentle relief while enhancing the body’s ability to combat the virus.

How to Make Garlic Oil:

*Heat 2 cloves of crushed garlic in coconut oil.

*Let it cool slightly and gently massage onto the affected area.

Additional Tips for Mumps Management

*Isolate the Patient: Mumps is highly contagious for up to 5 days after symptoms appear.

*Soft Foods: Provide soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies.

*Avoid Sour Foods: Sour foods stimulate salivary glands, increasing pain.

*Keep Cool: Fever is common, so dress in light clothing and stay in a cool environment.

Prevention: The Power of Vaccination

While this article focuses on natural treatments, it’s crucial to emphasize prevention through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is 88% effective after two doses. Vaccinating children at the right age (first dose at 12–15 months and second at 4–6 years) can prevent mumps altogether.

Scientific References and Facts

*Journal of Virology: Reports that Mumps virus is neurotropic and can cause rare complications like meningitis or orchitis.

*National Institutes of Health (NIH): Supports the immunomodulatory effect of neem and turmeric.

*World Health Organization (WHO): Recognizes natural therapies like hydration, rest, and herbal treatments as supportive methods for viral infections.

Conclusion

Mumps may be uncomfortable and inconvenient, but with proper care and natural remedies, both kids and adults can recover smoothly. While scientific medicine continues to focus on prevention via vaccines, traditional remedies offer effective symptom management. Always consult a healthcare provider, especially in severe cases or when symptoms worsen.

Natural remedies like neem, turmeric, aloe vera, and hydration are not just traditional options — they’re supported by modern science for their healing properties. Encourage rest, nourishment, and isolation to support full recovery and prevent the spread.

FAQ

Q. 1. Can adults get mumps even after vaccination?
Ans. Yes, adults can still contract mumps if they received only one dose of the vaccine or if immunity has waned over time.

Q. 2. Is there a permanent cure for mumps?
Ans. No. Mumps is a self-limiting viral infection. Treatments focus on symptom relief until the virus runs its course.

Q. 3. How long does it take to recover from mumps?
Ans. Most people recover within 7 to 10 days, although fatigue may linger a bit longer.

Q. 4. Can natural remedies cure mumps completely?
Ans. Natural remedies don’t "cure" mumps but help relieve symptoms and boost recovery. They complement the body’s healing process.

Q. 5. Is mumps dangerous?
Ans. In most cases, mumps is mild. However, complications like orchitis (testicle swelling), meningitis, and hearing loss can occur in rare cases.