Fever is an elevation in body temperature above normal and is not necessarily dangerous unless it climbs higher than 103 degrees Fahrenheit. Normal body temperature varies from person to person and fluctuates widely throughout the day. Normal body temperature is generally considered to be within the range of 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Food, excess clothing, emotional excitement and vigorous exercise can all cause a temporary rise in temperature without having a fever.
Fever itself is not an illness - it is a symptom of one. It accompanies a wide variety of diseases and conditions ranging from mild to severe and is considered a warning that something is wrong within the body.
A fever is one of the body's natural healing responses. A low-grade to medium-grade fever is usually beneficial to the body. This defense mechanism of the body acts to destroy foreign microbes. If your temperature is not to high, let it run its course, it may help to eliminate toxins.
A moderately high fever may present a risk for those with cardiac problems since it raises the heart rate and breathing rate and increases the loss of fluids. In addition, blood levels of iron and zinc fall, while copper levels rise and the levels of the stress hormone cortisol doubles.
While feverish avoid taking supplements that contain iron and zinc. When an infection is present, the body throws off extra iron into the tissues in an attempt to lower your temperature. Therefore; supplements containing iron will cause undo strain on your body. Also, zinc will not be properly absorbed while a fever is present.
Get plenty of rest and avoid solid foods while your temperature is elevated. Avoid rapid changes in temperature and consume large quantities of fluids to prevent dehydration and flush out toxins.
Common symptoms associated with a fever include body aches, little or no appetite, flushed face, headache, nausea and occasionally diarrhea or vomiting. The skin may be either hot to the touch and dry; or, warm to the touch with some perspiring. Sweating is the natural result of the body's attempt to lower its temperature and allowing the fever to "break".
Herbs that have active ingredients to alleviate the discomfort of a fever are known as diaphoretic or antipyretic.
Diaphoretic herbs promote sweating. Sweat evaporates and cools the skin. These herbs can be used in teas or an herbal bath to help open the pores. A warm bath will dissipate body heat.
Diaphoretic herbs include angelica, balm, blessed thistle, blue vervain, boneset, cayenne, chamomile, elderberry, garlic, ginger, ginseng, linden, peppermint, purslane, white willow, and yarrow.
Antipyretic herbs have actions that reduce or prevent fever. These herbs include astragalus, balm, bayberry, black haw, boneset, chickweed, cinchona, meadowsweet, skullcap, and white willow.
Herbal Remedies:
Bayberry has shown it may have some real benefits in treating fever and diarrhea. In tincture form; take 1/2 teaspoon twice a day.
Black haw contains salicin, the chemical aspirin originated from. In tincture form; take 2 teaspoons three times a day.
Blackthorn, echinacea, fenugreek seed, feverfew, ginger and poke root are all beneficial. Caution: Do not use feverfew during pregnancy.
Catnip tea along with lobelia and dandelion teas is good for lowering your temperature.
Catnip tea enemas twice a day may bring a high fever down. This will also relieve constipation and congestion, which keeps your temperature up.
Elderberry boosts the immune system and also has diaphoretic actions.
Garlic has been reported to be more effective than penicillin for the treatment of fevers, throat infections and other infectious diseases. It is a natural antibiotic and powerful immunostimulant. Take 2 capsules 3 times daily.
Hyssop, licorice root, thyme and yarrow teas combined can help a fever.
Lobelia extract or tincture will help lower your temperature if you take 1/2 teaspoon every 4 hours. If an upset stomach should occur, cut back to 1/4 teaspoon.
Linden tea can induce sweating to break a fever. Use 1 tablespoon of the flowers in 1 cup of boiling water. Drink hot - often.
White willow bark and meadowsweet are natural forms of aspirin. Both contain salicylates, and are considered "nature's fever medication". Brew either one into a tea and drink in small doses.
As with all nutritional supplements, herbal supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for healing purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications.
Edith Lingenfelter-webmaster of Age-old Herbs shows how "self defense" is natures oldest law on how to prevent your health concerns with natural healing herbs by means of herbal and nutritional supplements. Learn how to protect your health by visiting www.age-oldherbs.com