7+ home remedies to help reduce a fever

As your body fights a virus, it engages its automatic defense system. This means that you generally end up running a fever. The reason is that many viruses can't live above a certain temperature.
Generally, people want to stop the fever and its discomfort rather than letting it run its course. If your temperature gets too high, you need to take measures to bring it down, but otherwise, you should let the fever do its job. Here are 7+ ways you can reduce your fever when necessary.
Advertisement
1. Popsicle. Getting cold food inside you is a big plus. Health says to use popsicles, which will help lower your temperature and give you fluids at the same time. You can even make your own out of orange juice, grape juice or apple juice, giving you the additional benefit of extra vitamins. Simply pour the juice into an ice cube tray, cover it with cellophane and stick toothpicks through the plastic into the juice. Throw it in the freezer and you'll have home made popsicles.
2. Fluids. Making sure you don't get dehydrated is really important. The Mayo Clinic reminds you to be sure you keep drinking when you have a fever. Avoid beverages that contain caffeine, though, as they will actually remove fluid from your body.
3. Ginger tea. According to Best Health, ginger is supposed to induce sweating. Sweat will help cool your body, so you may want to try this. Place 1/2 teaspoon of fresh, grated ginger in 1 cup of boiling water. Let it steep and strain out the ginger.
4. Cream of tartar tea. Another fever tea is offered up by Health. Combine 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar, 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice, 2 1/2 cups of water and 2 teaspoons honey.
5. Apple water. You might find that apple water helps relieve your discomfort while keeping you hydrated. Health says to peel, core and slice 3 apples. Place them in 3 3/4 cups of water in a pan on the stove. Boil the water until the apples are mushy. Strain the apples out and add 2 tablespoons of honey to the water.
6. Grapes. If you're looking for a snack that will be easy on the stomach and help reduce your fever, Best Health recommends eating grapes. They are cool, coming from the refrigerator, and they contain lots of fluid which will keep you hydrated.
7. Cool bath. If all of these aren't working, Baby Center says to try taking a cool bath. Cold water will drop your temperature too quickly, but cool or slightly warm water will do the trick. You may also want to try sponging water onto your skin.
8. Uncover. Too often, people want to cover up while suffering from a fever. Instead, Health says to throw the covers off.
9. Undress. Make sure you are dressed lightly so that the heat can escape, says emedicine.
10. Medication. Taking some acetaminophen or ibuprofen will alleviate both your discomfort and your fever. The Mayo Clinic reminds you to not take aspirin as that can cause complications.
Advertisement
The next time you're struck by a fever, try these home remedies to keep it from getting out of control.
Resources
RemedyDaily.com does not give medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.