How to Treat Fever Naturally: 8 Home Remedies For Fever

Hey there! If you're reading this, chances are you or someone you know is dealing with a fever. 

Do not panic. It might be due to changing seasons and fluctuating temperatures, which can cause various diseases, including fever. Fever is how your body responds to viruses, bacteria, and other harmful pathogenic germs that enter the body and result in a sudden increase in body temperature. Some simple natural home remedies might help you feel better. 

In this blog, let's learn about some of the best home remedies to reduce fever, along with a few other things like the causes, foods you should eat when you have a fever, and more. So, let's dive in!

What Causes a Fever?

First things first, let's understand what the cause of fever is. 

Well, fever is a natural response from your body when it’s trying to fight off an infection. Your body temperature rises as a defense mechanism. It can be caused by many conditions, such as:

• Infections: The most common cause of fevers is infection. It could be viral, like the flu or a cold, bacterial, like strep throat or a UTI, or even fungal.
• Inflammatory conditions: Issues like rheumatoid arthritis can also lead to a fever as part of the body's inflammatory response.
• Medications: Fever might be a side effect of any drug that causes a fever.
• Heat exhaustion: Sometimes, being in a hot environment can elevate your body temperature.

Fever is common, and it’s usually not something to worry about unless it lasts too long or is very high.

Read Also: 7 Warning Signs of Dengue Fever: Recognize the Symptoms Early

Most Common Symptoms Of Fever

So, how do you know if you have a fever? You can check the fever by touching the body of the person, and you can also measure the fever with a thermometer. Here are the main symptoms of fever, including:

• A high body temperature over 100.4°F or 38°C
• Chills
• Sweating
• Headaches
• Muscle aches or body pain
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Irritability or confusion

If you're experiencing the above symptoms, you are experiencing multiple symptoms that don’t allow you to be at peace. But don't worry; you have various options and home remedies to help you manage it!

Also read: 12 Common Types of Fevers- Symptoms & Precautions.

8 Best Home Remedies for Fever

Here are some popular home remedies that can help you reduce fever- 

1. Tulsi (Basil) and Ginger Tea

Let's start with one of the oldest popular remedies: Tulsi (holy basil) and ginger tea. Tulsi has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. It is famous for its antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger helps fight infections and reduce fever.

How to Make It:

• Boil a few fresh tulsi leaves and a small piece of ginger in water.
• Boil it for 10 minutes and strain it. 
• You can add honey to sweeten the tea.

2. Honey and Cinnamon

Honey isn't just used to sweeten food; it's a natural medicine, too! Combined with cinnamon, known for its antimicrobial properties, it helps reduce the temperature.

How to Make It:

• Mix 1 spoon of honey with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Stir it well and consume it two to three times a day.

3. Lemon and Black Pepper Drink

Lemons contain vitamin C, which helps boost immunity. The lemon and black pepper combination is great for cooling down the body.

How to Make It:

• Squeeze lemon into warm water.
• Add a pinch of black pepper and mix it well.
• Drink this mixture once or twice a day. 

4. Neem Leaves

Neem has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce fever. 

How to Use It:

• Boil some fresh neem leaves in water for 5-10 minutes.
• Strain the water and let it cool.
• Drink it a couple of times a day.

5. Fenugreek (Methi) Seeds

Fenugreek, also known as methi, promotes sweating and helps to bring down body temperature. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help fight infections.

How to Make It:

• Soak one spoonful of methi seeds in water overnight.
• In the morning, boil them in fresh water for about 10 minutes.
• Strain the liquid and sip on it once it cools.

6. Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)

Haldi doodh is a popular home remedy for various diseases. Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent. Drink warm turmeric milk to reduce fever; this will help you sleep better. 

How to Make It:

• Heat a cup of milk and add a pinch of turmeric powder.
• Drink the warm haldi milk before sleeping.

7. Coriander Seeds

Coriander has amazing medicinal properties. It helps lower fever by promoting sweating, which naturally cools the body down. 

How to Make It:

• Boil one spoonful of coriander seeds in water for 10 minutes.
• Strain the mixture and drink the liquid after it cools.

8. Garlic and Honey

Garlic contains various antioxidants that fight infections. Combined with honey's natural antibacterial properties, garlic is an excellent remedy for fighting the underlying causes of fever.

How to Make It:

• Crush 2-3 garlic cloves and mix them with a teaspoon of honey.
• Take this remedy 2-3 times a day for best results.

What to Eat When You Have a Fever?

When you feel feverish, you don't feel like eating. But this is when you should take care of yourself and eat the right food to recover faster. Here's what you should eat when you have a fever: 

1. Clear soups and broths- Soups are easy to digest and help keep you hydrated, relieving the fever and sickness.
2. Lemon and honey- Drink warm honey and lemon water. Rich in Vitamin C, it will soothe your throat and boost immunity. 
3. Ginger tea relieves nausea and inflammation and can be soothing in a fever.
4. Yogurt- It’s a light, probiotic-packed food that helps keep your stomach happy and your body strong.
5. Fruit juices- You can drink fresh juices from oranges, pomegranates, or apples to hydrate yourself.
6. Coconut water- Stay hydrated with coconut water; this will replenish electrolytes lost due to fever.
7. Khichdi (rice porridge) is one of the most popular Indian foods for fever. It is made with rice and lentils and is super gentle on your stomach. It gives you energy without being too heavy.
8. Mashed potatoes- Do you not feel like eating because you have a fever? Try soft, plain foods like mashed potatoes. They're bland but comforting.

Remember that staying hydrated is key when you have a fever. Drink more fluids and avoid caffeine or sugary drinks, which could make you feel worse.

Blood Tests for Fever: When to Get Checked

If the fever sticks for days or is high, it is better to consult your doctor. They might recommend various blood tests to detect the cause of the fever. Here are a few tests your doctor might order if your fever is persistent:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)- This test checks for infections or anemia by examining different blood components.
2. Blood Culture- If the doctor suspects a serious bacterial infection, this test looks for bacteria in your blood.
3. Dengue Test- If you live in an area where dengue fever is common, a blood test for dengue antibodies will help confirm whether that's the cause of the fever.
4. Malaria is a common cause of fever in certain areas: The blood test can detect malaria parasites.
5. Typhoid Test- In places where typhoid is common, a blood test can check for the bacteria that cause it.

There are various fever packages available at Redcliffe Labs-

• Fever Package Advance Plus
• Fever Package - Comprehensive
• Fever Package - Advance
• Fever Package - Essential

Mild fever is usually treatable at home, but your doctor can recommend blood tests to identify the cause and suggest the right treatment if you are not getting relief.

Read more: How Many Days Does Dengue Fever Last?

How to Reduce Fever at Home for Children?

Here is what you can do at home to help reduce their fever and comfort them.

Here are some tips that can help:

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Kids can quickly dehydrate with a fever. Offer them water, coconut water, or fruit juices throughout the day.
2. Dress Lightly- Don't bundle them up in too many layers. Wearing light clothes will help their bodies cool down naturally.
3. Healthy, Light Foods—Keep meals light and nutritious. Serve soups, rice porridge, and yogurt.
4. Herbal Teas- Tulsi tea can help with the fever.
5. Room Temperature- Keep the room cool and well-ventilated.
6. Fever-Reducing Medications: Consult your doctor. They might recommend medications like paracetamol to reduce the fever.
7. Rest- Give them proper rest, which gives their body the energy to fight off the infection.
8. Cold Compress- A cool compress on the forehead can provide immediate relief. 
9. When to See a Doctor- If the fever persists for more than a couple of days or if your child's temperature exceeds 103°F (39.4°C), it's time to consult a healthcare professional.

Also Read: What are the Signs of Recovery From Typhoid Fever?

Wrapping It Up

So, now you know how to deal with a fever at home. With these simple home remedies for fever, like ginger tea, tulsi, and good foods, you can reduce the fever and speed up your recovery. 

These home remedies for fever are helpful, but if the fever lasts too long or gets too high, it's always a good idea to consult a doctor.

So, the next time you have a fever, why try one of these remedies? Stay well, and take care!

FAQ’s

1. How to reduce fever quickly at home?

To reduce fever quickly at home, drink plenty of fluids, rest, and apply a cool, damp cloth to your forehead. 

2. What drinks cure a fever?

Drinks like ginger tea, lemon and honey water, coconut water, and herbal teas soothe your body and reduce fever. Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks.

3. Is turmeric good for fever?

Yes, turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and has antimicrobial properties. It helps to reduce fever and support your immune system.

4. How to use garlic for a fever?

Garlic has natural antibacterial properties. You can consume it raw, add it to your foods, or make garlic tea.

5. Can I drink ORS when I have a fever?

Yes, you can drink ORS during a fever. It helps replace lost electrolytes, prevent dehydration, and maintain hydration levels.