LESSON 9- Fevers
Fevers are nature’s way to rid the body of infection and are actually a sign of a healthy immune system. Fevers can be dangerous if they get too high or last too long. Children tend to run hotter that adults do. If your child’s fever reaches 103 F or more or lasts for several days, or if your child is less than 6 weeks old and has a fever of 100.4 F or higher, contact your medical provider.
Herbs can help you break your child’s fever in two different ways. Depending on how you use them, herbs can cool your child down or slightly warm him up, triggering perspiration and a subsequent lowering of body temperature.
Watch this playlist to learn about fevers and how to treat them naturally with herbs and hydrotherapy
Some herbs are classified as febrifuges, meaning that they reduce fever. Febrifuges, such as Lemon Balm, Chamomile, Yarrow, and Elderberry, are considered cooling in action and are also nervine relaxants.
Other herbs are diaphoretic, meaning that they promote perspiration. They work with the body to raise the body temperature while simultaneously allowing the body to modulate it through the natural cooling mechanism of sweating. Hot teas or infusions enhance the diaphoretic effect. These herbs, including Ginger, Elderberry, and Thyme, are also relaxing to the musculoskeletal system, so people with a cold, flu, or respiratory infection often sleep better after taking them.
This next section offers you some remedies to help you bring down your child’s fever safely and naturally.
Remember, maintaining hydration is critical. Dehydration is the greatest danger of childhood fevers, not the heat of the fever.
Make Your Own Fever Reducing Herbal Tea & Popsicles
Stock up on all the best Birth Song Botanicals herbal supplements for fevers.
* This information is for educational purposes only. This is not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any illness or disease. If you are concerned about your child's health seek medical care.
