13 remedies to lower fever naturally
Everyone, at some point in our life, has had a fever. However, this does not have to be bad, which does not mean that sometimes we prefer not to have to suffer the discomfort caused by this rise in temperature, or risk it rising too much.
In this article we will see a series of natural remedies to lower fever, easy solutions to apply from elements that we have available at home. Of course, the last word is the doctor, who can give personalized treatment adapted to the exact symptoms that each person presents; Unless a specialist gives you the go-ahead, apply these remedies only if there is a slight fever and no other symptoms. In any other case, go to your health center.
Natural remedies and tips to lower fever
Fever is not a disease, but a defense mechanism of the body and, therefore, is related to stimulation of the immune system, which causes the body temperature to rise to more than 38 ° C. When a person has a body temperature between 37ºC and 38ºC, they are said to have a low-grade fever, that is, a light or mild fever.
On the other hand, fever can appear due to flu, infection, inflammation, illness, or various causes related to infectious processes. And in addition to hyperthermia, the person may experience tremors, chills, pain in the body, glassy eyes, and sometimes a feeling of cold.
When the fever appears, there are a series of natural remedies that we can apply so that the body temperature decreases. We will see them below, but yes, first ask yourself if it really pays to lower your fever; sometimes, it is preferable to keep it a while longer, to see how it evolves (this can give us clues about what disease is having an effect on the body).
1. Fenugreek tea
Fenugreek tea or fenugreek infusion provides many benefits for the body- Reduces hot flashes and menopausal symptoms, increases libido, is rich in minerals and vitamins and other estrogen-like compounds, and can help reduce fever. In this case, the seeds can be used directly, using two tablespoons of these with boiling water. Let it rest for 5 minutes, strain it and consume it at room temperature.
2. Cold water
Cold water has always been used to lower fever. It is common for many people to place cloths soaked in cold water on the forehead or the back of the neck. But you can also wet a sponge with cold water and moisten the areas of the armpits, feet, hands and groin. It is a good remedy when the fever is very high.
3. Lukewarm bath
Another widely used natural remedy is a warm water bath, as it helps to relax the body. It is not advisable to shower when a person has a fever and discomfort, because in these cases it is better for the person to be relaxed and in a resting position.
4. Drink a lot of water
Drinking plenty of water and frequently is good for fighting fever, since the organism suffers dehydration when it fights against external agents. Drinking water is especially important when the person also has diarrhea or vomits.
5. Do not eat too much
It is good to eat something when the person has a fever; however, not in large quantity. In these cases, vegetable soups are ideal to help the body recover and give it the nutrients it needs.
6. Lettuce tea
Staying hydrated is also possible thanks to teas, which can also provide many vitamins and minerals. One of the most suitable is lettuce tea, which contains potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium and phosphorus. It is only necessary to boil a liter of water, and pour it into a container along with a whole lettuce. Let it sit for a quarter of an hour and add sweetener if necessary. Then it is ready to drink.
7. Hot garlic
Hot garlic can help lower body temperature by promoting sweating. In this sense, it helps eliminate toxins and promotes recovery. This food has an antibacterial and antifungal effect, so it becomes a great ally of the body to fight infections.
To benefit from this remedy, it is possible to mince a garlic clove and add it to a cup of hot water. Afterwards, you have to let it rest for 10 minutes, strain and drink when ready. This remedy, however, is not recommended for pregnant women and young children.
8. Raisins
Raisins are also great allies of the body when it comes to fighting infections and reduce the high body temperature when fever occurs. They contain a large amount of phenolic phytonutrients that fight bacteria.
To reduce fever, it is possible to have a raisin drink. You only have to place 25 raisins in half a cup of water for an hour, until they soften and become soft. Afterwards, it is necessary to crush them in the same water and add lemon juice. Taking this 2 times a day is beneficial in reducing fever.
9. Do not clothe yourself excessively
Although fever sometimes produces a sensation of cold, bundling up is not good to reduce it, as this contributes to increasing body temperature. Likewise, the person should wear light clothing and not cover himself with a blanket.
10. Yarrow
Yarrow is a medicinal plant used to treat respiratory problems, improve blood circulation, gastritis, menopausal symptoms and menstrual cramps. In the form of an infusion, it has a positive influence on reducing fever.
11. Sage tea
Another infusion that goes very well when we have a fever is sage tea, which helps perspire and lowers fever. This drink is easy to prepare. You just have to place a few sage leaves in a cup of boiling water and let them rest for 10 minutes. You can add honey and lemon juice to increase its benefits.
12. Ginger
Thanks to ginger, the body releases heat and therefore reduces fever. This substance is a natural antiviral and benefits the immune system. Ginger can be drunk in an infusion or it is possible to make a bath with ginger powder. When the bathtub is full, simply add the ginger powder and oil and let it work for 10 minutes before taking a 10-minute bath.
13. Egg white
Egg white, although many are unaware of it, also helps lower fever. Due to its viscosity, it acts as a cool gel that absorbs heat. Apparently, if a paper cloth is moistened with previously beaten egg whites and placed on the feet (with the sock over the top so that it stays in place), acts as a layer of fat that absorbs body heat and reduces fever.
Bibliographic references:
- Marx, J. (2006). Rosen's emergency medicine: concepts and clinical practice. New York: Mosby / Elsevier.
- Sullivan, J.E.; Farrar, H.C. (2011). Fever and antipyretic use in children. Pediatrics. 127 (3): 580–87.