Home Remedies and Herbs for Fever

Fever occurs when our bodies elevate our internal temperature in response to fighting off an infection. A normal body temperature is 98.2 degrees fahrenheit and anything above this could indicate fever. Having a temperature slightly above this normal level is a good indication that your body is naturally fighting off an infection which is a sign of good health¹. Fevers generally go away within a few days².

If body temperature elevates high enough to produce a fever over 102 degrees fahrenheit this is more concerning and you may need treatment. Treatment options including fever home remedies, may depend on the types of fever including fever in children and what is the cause of the fever.

What Causes Fever?

Fever is caused when your body is elevating your internal temperature in order to combat an infection. Certain infections that cause fever include^1,3:

• Bone infections
• Cold and flu
• Bronchitis
• Ear infections
• Tuberculosis
• Strep throat
• Urinary tract infections
• Viral and bacterial gastroenteritis
• Mononucleosis
• Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, colitis, vasculitis

Fevers that reach higher than 102 degree F may cause more serious symptoms and you will need to seek medical attention. Serious fever symptoms include^1,4:

• Convulsions or seizures
• Trouble walking
• Hallucination
• Confusion
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Dehydration

Natural Remedies and Herbs for Fever

There are different types of fever treatment available including home care. Fever home remedies for fever in children and adults include:

• Onion - Raw onion can be used as a compress on the soles of the feet. It is believed that the compounds in the onion help to cool down the body and draw the fever out from the feet.
• Vinegar - Mix a few tablespoons of vinegar in warm bath water and soak to help reduce fever. It is also recommended to wear socks soaked in vinegar to help draw the fever out through the feet.
• Egg White - Egg whites contain certain proteins that are able to help reduce fever. Soak socks in egg whites only and wear as needed until fever reduces.
• Gypsum - Gypsum is a sulfate mineral delivered in pill format. Take gypsum pills as instructed on the packaging to help quickly reduce fever symptoms⁷.
• Echinacea - Echinacea is a plant typically used to help combat cold and flu symptoms. It comes in pill format which you can take multiple times daily to help reduce fever.
• Garlic - Mix raw garlic in water and drink throughout the day to lower fever. Garlic is an antioxidant that helps to promote sweating and flush out toxins from the body.

If symptoms of fever persist or worsen after a few days, call you doctor immediately for infection and fever treatment.

References

1. http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/hic_Fever
2. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/basics/definition/con-20019229
3. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003090.htm
4. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/basics/symptoms/con-20019229
5. http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/en/healthaz/conditionsanddiseases/symptoms/pages/fever.aspx