Some remedies allow the fever to be lowered without the need for medication. Although this symptom is a defense mechanism activated when the immune system detects a threat, it implies an increased body temperature that brings discomfort and a feeling of weakness that should be improved.
Certainly, antipyretic medications are often very effective, but they are not the only option available. Basic measures can be applied at home and are open to everyone, representing a more natural alternative that can be useful for people who are already taking other drugs and do not want to overdo it.
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When is it considered that there is a fever?
Although there may be slight variations depending on the literature, in general, it is considered that a febrile episode occurs with a temperature greater than or equal to 38.3 °C. We speak of low-grade fever between this value and 37 °C, a state that could evolve into a craze.
Often this indicates that the body is trying to fight off infectious agents. However, it can also be due to heat stroke, metabolic diseases, and the impact of certain medications. If so, we no longer speak of fever but of hyperthermia.
By itself, fever is not a disease but a symptom. Due to this, and as exposed by the Mayo Clinic, it is accompanied by clinical manifestations such as the following:
- Sweating.
- Chills and tremors.
- Headache.
- Muscle pains.
- Loss of appetite.
- Irritability.
- Dehydration.
- General weakness.
When should the fever go down?
The body can tolerate fevers that oscillate between 38 and 39 ºC. At these levels, it usually improves without the need for medication. In fact, due to its defensive role, in some cases, it might be convenient not to lower it, but it depends a lot on the discomfort of each person.
It almost always subsides when the infection or disease causing it is treated. For this, it is essential to have a medical assessment, especially if you suffer from any disease, the symptoms are intense (significantly if it exceeds 39ºC), or have a long evolution time.
The most effective ways to lower fever or improve symptoms without drugs
Several home measures can be used to alleviate many cases of fever. For this, you will only need essential elements that you most likely already have at home.
1. Apply wet compresses
The application of wet compresses is one of the most popular strategies to reduce fever. However, as an article published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information exposes, this remedy does not reduce fever. It could help to cool the body in the face of a temperature rise, which can be comfortable to better cope with the symptoms.
How to do it?
The compresses should not be ice cold as they can worsen the chill. Ideally, they should be at room temperature. Even if the chills are already present, warm compresses work.
These are placed in the head, armpits, groin, and feet. And watch out! They should be made with water only. An old remedy suggested the application of alcohol compresses, but this is a mistake. Alcohol applied directly to the skin can be irritating, especially on sensitive skin.
2. Take a warm shower and take off your clothes
The shower’s function with warm water is similar to that of the compresses. In some people, it is helpful to reduce discomfort and lower body temperature. Generally, it is implemented in cases of high fever while going to the doctor.
However, the water must be warm since the cold can derive a thermal shock. Meanwhile, the hot one is suffocating and counterproductive. The bath can last between 20 and 30 minutes. However, if it derives more chills, it should be discontinued.
It is also important not to overdress even though you may feel cold. This will only worsen the temperature rise and discomfort after a few hours. Generally, wearing light clothing and covering yourself with a blanket is usually enough.
3. Save sleep
Despite being alarming, fever tends to go away independently without specific medications or treatments. Resting is the best option to obtain relief since it allows the rage to fulfill its defensive role without further ado.
Thus, it is convenient to suspend daily activities, especially if they involve significant physical effort. In the case of children, they must stop school and recreational activities.
4. Drink healthy fluids
Consuming water and healthy fluids is a relevant measure to deal with episodes of fever. The reason? The increase in body temperature can lead to dehydration or fluid loss. Drinks such as the following are suggested through the Mayo Clinic :
- Water.
- Juices.
- Broths.
- Oral rehydration solutions.
5. Take light dishes
It is not convenient to eat irritating foods when this symptom occurs. Vegetable creams and broths are ideal to calm hunger while the recovery process is completed. In addition to satisfying the appetite, they also contribute to hydration.
In any case, it is worth reviewing eating habits and ensuring optimal intake of essential nutrients. Research in the journal Nutrients explains that proper nutrition is crucial for the immune system to function correctly.
So be sure to include foods like the following:
- Fruits and vegetables.
- Chicken and fish.
- Nuts and seeds.
- Legumes.
- Whole grains.
Infusions to reduce fever without drugs
It is essential to mention that medicines will always be the most appropriate substances to reduce fever. Some natural remedies (such as the ones we will say below) could help improve the symptoms, but they are not the treatment of choice.
In addition, many of these have evidence suggesting that they could indirectly reduce fever. For example, the case of infusions of ingredients with abundant vitamin C, which, in theory, is necessary to strengthen the immune system. This usually has anecdotal effectiveness and does not apply to all cases.
In short, do not stop consuming the medications the doctor prescribed if this was the case, in addition to avoiding mixing them with these infusions. Remember that drug interactions could cause significant adverse effects. You can resort to these remedies occasionally and with the prior authorization of your specialist.
1. Infusion of thyme and chamomile
The thyme and chamomile drink could help the body fight the cause of the fever when it has an infectious origin. As a review shared in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition puts it, thyme has the potential as an antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory.
For its part, chamomile is attributed to its immunomodulatory properties that are positively related to the relief of cold infections. In addition to its possible effects, the infusion contributes to overcoming the lost liquids due to sweating.
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon of thyme (3 grams).
- 1/2 tablespoon of chamomile (3 grams).
- One cup of water (250 milliliters).
Preparation
- First, boil half a tablespoon of thyme and chamomile in a saucepan.
- Turn off the heat and let rest for 10 minutes.
- After this, strain the infusion.
- Consume up to 2 cups a day.
2. Infusion of orange peels
The infusion of orange peel provides the body with a significant amount of vitamin C, a nutrient that strengthens the defenses. In fact, according to information from US Food Data Central, just one tablespoon (6 grams) of orange peel provides 14% of the suggested daily value for vitamin C, nearly three times more than the fruit inside.
In this regard, a meta-analysis shared in BioMed Research International evaluated several studies in which an extra dose of vitamin C was administered to patients with flu-like symptoms. The results indicated that this supplementation reduced the duration of symptoms, the time spent at home while symptoms improved, and some associated symptoms, such as chest pain.
Ingredients
- Peel an orange.
- One tablespoon of honey (15 grams).
- One cup of water (250 milliliters).
Preparation
- First, chop the orange peel and bring it to a boil in a cup of water.
- Now, let the drink steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the infusion and add a tablespoon of honey to sweeten.
- Consume up to 2 cups a day.
3. Infusion of yarrow
As compiled by a review shared in Current Pharmaceutical Design, yarrow has been used in traditional medicine as an adjunct against fever. The authors explain that although its components have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, human trials are scarce to assess its efficacy as a treatment. Therefore, its effectiveness is anecdotal.
Ingredients
- One teaspoon of dried yarrow (2 grams).
- One cup of water (250 milliliters).
Preparation
- Bring a cup of water to a boil and add the dried plant.
- Then, let it infuse and strain the drink.
- Once it rests, consume it.
- Take 2 or 3 cups a day.
4. Infusion of elderberries
Elderberry is a traditional remedy against fever and other symptoms of flu-like processes. As a study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies indicates, the extract of this plant under in vitro conditions might help prevent the growth of certain types of streptococcal bacteria and influenza (flu) viruses.
The results in humans do not necessarily have to be similar, so more studies are necessary.
Ingredients
- One teaspoon of elderberries (2 grams).
- One cup of water (250 milliliters).
Preparation
- Pour the elderberries into a cup of boiling water.
- Let cook for a few minutes, remove from heat and let rest.
- Strain the drink and consume it.
- Take 2 cups a day.
5. Fennel infusion
A study published in BioMed Research International highlights that fennel is an ethnic remedy widely used in infectious problems of bacterial, fungal, viral, and mycobacterial origin. Despite these uses (based on its antimicrobial activity in in vitro media ), human clinical trials are needed to assess its effectiveness in fever.
Ingredients
- One cup of water (250 milliliters).
- Two teaspoons of fennel (4 grams).
- One tablespoon of honey (15 grams).
Preparation
- First, bring the water to a boil and add the two teaspoons of fennel.
- Put the fire on low and leave the mixture for about three more minutes.
- After this time, please turn off the heat and wait for it to rest for 15 minutes.
- Sweeten with honey (optional).
- Take up to 2 cups a day.
Tips for the safe consumption of remedies to reduce fever
Medications to reduce fever and discomfort are usually safe for most people. However, the fact that they are natural does not forgive them from causing side effects, especially in those with a particular condition. Therefore, it is better to avoid its intake in the following cases:
- Pregnancy and lactation.
- Pre-diagnosed chronic diseases (cancer, kidney or liver failure, cardiovascular diseases, etc.).
- Drug treatments. Any drug could cause interactions: antidiabetics, antihypertensives, anticoagulants, or even antipyretics (those used to reduce fever, including paracetamol).
- Upcoming surgeries.
All these cases should be consulted with the doctor first. He will be the person in charge of authorizing or not its consumption.
What to avoid in case of fever?
Some actions can make fever episodes worse. Therefore, they should be avoided. This covers the following:
- Wrap up too much, even if there are chills.
- Use hot bedding.
- It is being in very high temperatures or using the air conditioning.
- Take antibiotics without a prescription (also applies to other medications).
- Do strenuous physical activity.
When to consult the doctor?
Given the negative connotation of fever throughout history, many consider it a reason for medical consultation. However, as we have discussed, it is a natural defense mechanism of the body that, in most cases, improves independently without needing medication.
The consultation with the professional should be reserved only for those cases of excessively high fever (39 ºC or more) or persistent. Also, if the craze co-occurs with other symptoms, such as the following:
- Rashes.
- Neck stiffness.
- Dehydration.
- Seizures.
- Light sensitivity.
- Dizziness.
- loss of appetite
In addition to the above, consultation is essential if there is already a pre-diagnosed disease, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. If so, the doctor must assess whether the origin of the febrile episode is a complication of the disease.
It is possible to reduce fever without medication.
In short, you can almost always lower a fever without medication and only with self-care measures. Some natural remedies are helpful against discomfort, although more evidence is required. In any case, it is advisable to ensure hydration and an excellent diet to strengthen the defenses.
Medical intervention is essential if the symptom worsens or persists for many days. Depending on the fever’s origin, the professional will determine the best treatment.