10 Ways to Treat a Fever Naturally

Fever is a natural part of many illnesses, and most people don’t realize that fever can actually benefit you. By itself, fever is not a disease. Usually it is a positive sign that your body is fighting infection. Fever stimulates certain defenses, such as the white blood cells, which attack and destroy invading viruses and bacteria.

I have talked previously about when you should worry about a fever and head to the doctor’s office. But in the majority of cases, fevers are caused by viral illnesses, and you just need time, rest, and loving care.

Medications such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can have harmful side effects, especially for small children.  I try to avoid them and use natural remedies instead.

That being said, fevers can often make us feel miserable.

Here are 10 ways to treat a fever naturally:

1. Drink lots of fluids 

   to prevent dehydration, such as water or herbal teas (chamomile, peppermint, or nettle are some of my favorites). Chamomile tea is wonderful for helping you sleep, and is safe for children.

2. Homemade soups using bone broth,

   which provides nutrients to help your body fight the infection.

3. Probiotics

   to support your immune system and gut health. Read more about probiotics here.

4. Elderberry syrup,

   which has been clinically shown to shorten the duration of viral illnesses. It also reduces cough and sooths the throat. Click here for an easy Elderberry syrup recipe.

5. Coconut oil,

   which has antibacterial and antiviral properties. You can mix it with food or smoothies.

6. Garlic

   also has antibacterial and antiviral properties and is amazingly effective. I finely chop a small clove of garlic, mix it with a spoon of raw honey, and drink. Another method is to warm a mixture of 1 chopped garlic clove and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Apply this mixture over the soles of the feet. Wrap the feet with gauze and leave it on for several hours, or overnight.

7. Apple cider vinegar (ACV)

   I use this with my children and have seen great results in bringing down their fever. Soak a washcloth in a mixture of 1 part ACV and two parts cool water. Wring out the cloth and place it on your forehead, stomach, or feet. Another method is to mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of honey in a glass of warm water and drink.

8. Peppermint tea

   is great for those muscles aches you get when the fever spikes.

9. Ginger

   is another amazing food with antibacterial and antiviral properties. I make a ginger tea by steeping a teaspoon of fresh grated ginger in a cup of boiling water for a few minutes. I also add raw honey once it cools down a bit.

10. Turmeric

    helps the immune system fight infection and reduces the duration of the fever. Mix ½ teaspoon of turmeric and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper powder in 1 cup of warm milk or coconut milk.

Note: Never give honey to babies less than 1 year of age, because their immature immune systems can’t fight the bacteria found in some kinds of honey.

Have you tried any natural remedies for fever? Please share in the comments below!