We often think of fevers as being a very negative condition for the human body; really though a fever is your body’s way of healing itself. You have a fever if your temperature over 38.° Celcius/99.° Fahrenheit. A fever is a sign that your body is fighting off a viral or bacterial [...]]]>

We often think of fevers as being a very negative condition for the human body; really though a fever is your body’s way of healing itself. You have a fever if your temperature over 38.° Celcius/99.° Fahrenheit. A fever is a sign that your body is fighting off a viral or bacterial infection if you take medication at the first sign of a low fever you are helping the growth of this bacteria or virus.

Symptoms of fevers are: feeling flushed or looking pale, skin is hot to touch, shivers, feeling sweaty and thirsty. If your fever does not rise above 39.4° C/103°F it’s usually safe to allow your body to sweat out the infection. For Fevers that go over this you will want to seek medical attention If there is a sore neck that accompanies your fever or it last for more then three days seek health care. . If you have any other underlying health conditions you need to consult your health care practitioner for advice (always error on the side of caution).

Drinking lots of water helps to lower your temperature and to aid in the elimination toxins. Sweating also helps to rid your body of toxins. Do any of you remember your mother covering you up and putting wool socks on you when you had a fever? I sure remember that. If you need to bring the fever down try a luke warm bath. If the fever is too high it can cause damage so  you want to make sure your fever is in the safe range that kills infection but does not harm you.

There are many herbs that will help you perspire while in a febrile condition. All the herbs I list will be safe for children but also good for adults as well.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria L.) is a great herb for fever it has relaxing qualities and can be mixed with a bit of fresh ginger if you want something a bit stronger.

Peppermint (Mentha X piperita L.) is a tasty tea for fever it also has nervine qualities which help with irritability you can use this alone or with

Elderflower (Sambucus can.) These two herbs an ounce of each is Dominion Herbal College’s Flu Remedy.

For all of the above remedies I like to use a tablespoon of herb to 2 cups of just boiled water. You can adjust the dosage to what seems to work for you or your child. Adults want to use more for kids you might want to use a little bit less. I would adjust for taste too with children. If it tastes to strong for them you can dilute the tea.  I infuse it in a canning jar for a few hours, strain out the herb and add a bit of honey to sweeten. You can take up to a 1/4 cup every 30 mins for children and 1/2-1 cup every 30 mins for an adult.

If your sick and reading this I hope you are feeling better soon.