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.
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:
What is fever, and why does it happen?
Common symptoms of fever
Best home remedies to lower fever
When to see a doctor?
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:
Viral or bacterial infections (cold, flu, throat infection)
Dehydration
Heat exhaustion or heatstroke
Vaccinations (in children)
Chronic illnesses (like autoimmune diseases)
Symptoms of Fever
The symptoms of fever include:
Apart from a high body temperature, you may also experience:
Chills and shivering
Headache
Muscle aches
Sweating
Weakness and fatigue
Loss of appetite
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
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:
Soups (vegetable or chicken soup)
Boiled rice or khichdi
Fresh fruits (oranges, bananas, apples)
6. Herbal Remedies
Some herbs have natural fever-reducing properties:
Tulsi (Holy Basil): Boil a few leaves in water and drink as tea.
Ginger: Helps fight infections and reduces body heat.
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:
Fever is above 103°F (39.4°C)
Lasts more than 3 days
You experience a severe headache, stiff neck, or rash
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
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:
Washing hands frequently
Eating a balanced diet (rich in vitamins & minerals)
Staying hydrated
Getting enough sleep
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
Consult a top general physician for the best advice
Dr. Aman Kumar
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
29 Years • MBBS, MD
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Heart Centre Thousand Lights, Chennai
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Afreen Banu Khan
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DDM (Diab). FCC (Cardio)
Chennai
Apollo Speciality Hospitals OMR, Chennai
Dr. Ramya Hari
General Practitioner
18 Years • Medical Head & Family Physician, DG Shipping Approved Doctor, Panel Physician - UK Visa Medicals
Chennai
Apollo Medical Centre Kotturpuram, Chennai
Dr. Om Prakash Sharma
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
46 Years • MD, FRCP (Edinburg), FICN, FICP, FIAMS, FCGP, FGSI, FACM, FIMSA, FGAPIO
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr Rajashree Dhongade
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MD.Medicine,Fellowship in Critical Care Medicine (MUHS)
Nashik
Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik
(25+ Patients)
