Natural treatment for respiratory infections?

So I have 3 week old gerbil pups with respiratory infections. I know enchinca/goldenseal can help. I'm not sure I want to give it to pups, so I figured I'd give it to the mother and hope they get it through the milk.

Not sure I want to try apple cider vinegar. I've used both of those in adults though and once cured an adult form an RI..but pups..:/

The only other treatement is an OTC Antibiotic for birds and yeah don't want go there.