Fever, also referred as pyrexia, is an increase in internal body temperature. A fever is often the sign of an underlying condition and is the body's natural response to fight infections and disease. Besides an increase of body temperature higher than 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, additional signs of fever include chills, sweating and headache. Medication can reduce a fever; however, several home remedies may also provide treatment.
Cool Baths and Hydration
Soak the body in a cool or lukewarm bath. Add 1 cup Epsom salts to water to relieve muscles from aches and pains. Drink eight or more glasses of water to replace body fluids that are lost because of increased body temperature.
Apple Cider Vinegar Wash
Pour 1 cup of apple cider vinegar into a bowl. Dip a clean washcloth into the solution and gently rub over the body. Put on warm, comfortable clothing and rest under warm blankets. Additionally, soak socks in vinegar and squeeze out the excess. Place on feet for several hours.
Horseradish or Mustard Seed Brew
Grind 1 tbsp. fresh horseradish. Boil 1 cup of water. Add horseradish to water and let steep for 5 minutes. Drink the brew up to three times a day. One teaspoon mustard seeds can replace the horseradish if it's unavailable.
Linden Tea
Add 1 tbsp. Linden Flower to 1 cup boiling water. Allow to sit for five minutes. Drink solution when hot. Additional herbs, including peppermint and chamomile, can be made into a tea that is beneficial for a fever.
Manage Diet
Eat liquid foods instead of solid foods. Liquid foods include soups, yogurt and gelatin. Fresh fruit and boiled vegetables are recommended. Drink cow's milk two to three times a day. Avoid heavy fried foods.
Avoid Excercise
The body is already overheated with the fever. Adding additional physical activity can cause the body to overheat and possibly cause heat exhaustion. Avoid exercising or any type of physical activity. Allow the body to rest and heal.
