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Home Remedies to Treat Fever

Know about the home remedies to treat fever. What are the symptoms, causes? Learn about the best home remedies to treat fever.

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Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan

Reviewed by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair MBBS

Last updated on 4th Aug, 2025

Introduction 

Fever is one of the most common health issues that everyone experiences at some point. It’s your body’s natural response to infections, viruses, or other illnesses. While a mild fever is usually not a cause for concern, it can make you feel weak, tired, and uncomfortable.

The good news is that several safe and natural home remedies can help reduce fever and make you feel better.

In this article, we’ll discuss:

  1. What is fever, and why does it happen?

  2. Common symptoms of fever

  3. Best home remedies to lower fever

  4. When to see a doctor?

  5. Tips to prevent fever

Let’s get started!

What is Fever?

Fever is a temporary rise in body temperature, usually above 98.6°F (37°C). It’s a sign that your body is fighting an infection or illness. While fevers can be uncomfortable, they are often a good sign that your immune system is working properly.

Common Causes of Fever

The common causes of fever include:

  1. Viral or bacterial infections (cold, flu, throat infection)

  2. Dehydration

  3. Heat exhaustion or heatstroke

  4. Vaccinations (in children)

  5. Chronic illnesses (like autoimmune diseases)

Symptoms of Fever

The symptoms of fever include:

Apart from a high body temperature, you may also experience:

  1. Chills and shivering

  2. Headache

  3. Muscle aches

  4. Sweating

  5. Weakness and fatigue

  6. Loss of appetite

  7. Dehydration

If your fever is above 103°F (39.4°C) or lasts more than 3 days, you should see a doctor.

Consult a top general physician for the best advice

Dr. Mohamed Azeem, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Mohamed Azeem

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM

Karaikudi

Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi

450

450

No Booking Fees

Dr. Sandhya Chandel, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Sandhya Chandel

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM

Bilaspur

Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur

recommendation

94%

(125+ Patients)

700

700

No Booking Fees

Dr Syed Mateen Pasha, General Physician

Dr Syed Mateen Pasha

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

Dr. Anand Ravi, General Physician

Dr. Anand Ravi

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

Best Home Remedies to Treat Fever

Here are some safe and effective home remedies to help bring down a fever naturally:

1. Stay Hydrated

When you have a fever, your body loses fluids through sweating. Drinking plenty of water, coconut water, herbal teas, or oral rehydration solutions (ORS) helps prevent dehydration and cools the body.

Try: Warm ginger tea, tulsi (holy basil) tea, or lemon-honey water.

2. Rest and Sleep

Your body needs energy to fight infections. Avoid physical strain and get plenty of rest to recover faster.

3. Cool Compress

Applying a damp, cool cloth on your forehead, wrists, or neck can help lower body temperature.

Tip: Use lukewarm water (not ice-cold) to avoid shivering.

4. Take a Lukewarm Bath

A lukewarm sponge bath can help reduce fever gradually. Avoid cold water as it may cause chills.

5. Eat Light and Nutritious Foods

Heavy meals can make digestion harder. Instead, opt for:

  1. Soups (vegetable or chicken soup)

  2. Boiled rice or khichdi

  3. Fresh fruits (oranges, bananas, apples)

6. Herbal Remedies

Some herbs have natural fever-reducing properties:

  1. Tulsi (Holy Basil): Boil a few leaves in water and drink as tea.

  2. Ginger: Helps fight infections and reduces body heat.

  3. Coriander Seeds: Boil in water, strain, and drink to lower fever.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Soak

Mix 1-2 tablespoons of ACV in lukewarm water and soak a cloth in it. Place it on your forehead or take a sponge bath with it.

8. Stay in a Cool Room

Keep your room well-ventilated and at a comfortable temperature. Avoid heavy blankets if you feel too hot.

When to See a Doctor?

While most fevers can be managed at home, seek medical help if:

  1. Fever is above 103°F (39.4°C)

  2. Lasts more than 3 days

  3. You experience a severe headache, stiff neck, or rash

  4. Difficulty breathing or chest pain

  5. Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea

If you’re unsure, consult a doctor online or book a lab test through Apollo 24|7 for quick diagnosis.

Preventing Fever

You can reduce the risk of fever by:

  1. Washing hands frequently

  2. Eating a balanced diet (rich in vitamins & minerals)

  3. Staying hydrated

  4. Getting enough sleep

  5. Avoiding close contact with sick people

Final Thoughts

Fever is usually a sign that your body is fighting an infection. While it can be uncomfortable, most fevers can be managed with simple home remedies, rest, and hydration. However, if your fever is very high or lasts too long, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor.

Consult a top general physician for the best advice

Dr. Mohamed Azeem, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Mohamed Azeem

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM

Karaikudi

Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi

450

450

No Booking Fees

Dr. Sandhya Chandel, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Sandhya Chandel

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM

Bilaspur

Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur

recommendation

94%

(125+ Patients)

700

700

No Booking Fees

Dr Syed Mateen Pasha, General Physician

Dr Syed Mateen Pasha

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

Dr. Anand Ravi, General Physician

Dr. Anand Ravi

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

Consult a top general physician for the best advice

Dr. Mohamed Azeem, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Mohamed Azeem

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM

Karaikudi

Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi

450

450

No Booking Fees

Dr. Sandhya Chandel, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Sandhya Chandel

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM

Bilaspur

Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur

recommendation

94%

(125+ Patients)

700

700

No Booking Fees

Dr Aakash Andgi, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Aakash Andgi

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

9 Years • MBBS MD

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru

600

Dr Syed Mateen Pasha, General Physician

Dr Syed Mateen Pasha

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

Dr. Anand Ravi, General Physician

Dr. Anand Ravi

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

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