Ayurvedic Remedy for Fever

Fever or an elevated body temperature commonly occurs in both adults and children, especially during weather changes. It is your body's response to fighting an illness. While it's possible to have a fever without a known cause, they are usually triggered by viral or bacterial infections. Individuals with weak immune systems may experience fevers more frequently than others.

Fever episodes are typically temporary and often resolve on their own or with the use of over-the-counter medications. However, if you or your loved one has a fever, you can consider trying the following Ayurvedic remedy for fever to support natural recovery.

In Ayurveda, fever is known as  Jwara roga. It is a well-documented condition characterized by the body's temperature exceeding its normal range, which affects your body's regular functions. Ayurveda suggests that fevers occur due to imbalances in your body's doshas, or your body's energy fields.

Ayurveda categorizes fevers into different types, including those caused by parasites, internal or external factors, mental factors (like encephalitis), and seasonal triggers. Common symptoms of most fevers include chills, limb and body stiffness, muscle aches, digestive issues, sore throat, reduced appetite, headaches, and elevated body temperature.

An aggravated digestive fire, known as "Agni" in Ayurveda, can lead to various digestive disorders. These disorders can block the body's channels and limit the delivery of nutrients to various bodily systems and tissues, ultimately leading to the onset of a fever.

According to Ayurveda, fevers occur when the digestive fire (Agni) and its associated toxic byproducts (known as "ama"), typically found in the gastrointestinal tract, are displaced due to imbalances in the doshas. These toxins enter into the lymphatic system and bloodstream, causing typical fever symptoms, such as high temperature and limb heaviness.

As these toxins circulate throughout your body, they further disturb the three doshas. This, in turn, causes more toxic byproducts to enter the bloodstream, contributing to the persistence and intensity of the fever.

Ayurvedic Home Remedies For Fever

While taking medication to reduce your body temperature is an option, there are also natural home remedies that can help alleviate a fever. Opting for natural remedies is often considered a safer alternative to chemical-based treatments and effective as well.

Garlic

Crushed garlic is a commonly used home remedy for dealing with fever, cough, and cold. Garlic has natural antibacterial properties, which make it effective in relieving these symptoms. To use it, you can crush 4-6 garlic cloves and eat them directly. If you find the taste and smell too strong, you can mix the crushed garlic with curd and consume it.

Ginger

In Ayurveda, ginger has a long history of use in treating various health issues. It's known for its ability to fight off infections and reduce inflammation in the body. If you're prone to infections, including ginger in your routine can be beneficial. A simple way to do this is by making lemon tea and adding a few slices of ginger to it. Instead of using sugar, you can sweeten it with honey for added benefits.

Tulsi Tea

Tulsi leaves contain valuable essential oils such as eugenol, citronellol, and linalool, which can help reduce inflammation. Tulsi is commonly used to treat fevers. Boiling Tulsi leaves with tea is a method to prevent malaria and dengue fever. You can make a decoction by boiling Tulsi leaves with powdered cardamom in water, and then mix it with sugar and milk to manage acute fevers. Or you can crush the leaves to extract juice from them and consume it raw.

 Moringa

Moringa is a tropical plant that offers a range of nutritional and medicinal advantages. It's rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and antibacterial properties. Research has shown that moringa bark can help reduce fevers and eliminate harmful toxins from the body. However, pregnant women should avoid using moringa as it can be unsafe for them.

 Giloy

Giloy has anti-inflammatory, antipyretic (that reduces fever) properties. Consuming fresh Giloy juice is beneficial for boosting immunity and can aid in the management of fevers. It is also believed to increase platelet count, which could be helpful in cases of dengue fever.

 Kudzu root

Kudzu is a well-recognized medicinal plant in Ayurveda, known for its immune-boosting properties that aid in combating infections. In traditional Chinese culture, Kudzu has been used for centuries to address fevers. To prepare it, simply boil a cleaned kudzu root for about fifteen minutes and keep it for consumption throughout the day.

 Raisins

Raisins are beneficial in fighting infections and reducing fevers due to their natural antibacterial and antioxidant properties. They also serve as a body tonic during a fever. To make a concoction, soak 25 raisins in half a cup of water for an hour until they soften. Crush the soaked raisins in the water, strain the liquid, and then add the juice of half a lime. This solution can be consumed twice daily until the fever subsides.

 Turmeric

Turmeric milk, also known as "golden milk" is a go-to remedy for viral fever. It not only boosts your immune system but also aids in rapid recovery from stubborn infections. Packed with anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric milk can alleviate nasal congestion, provide relief for a sore throat, enhance immunity, and help lower your fever effectively.

General Ayurvedic Tips for Managing Fever

 If you have a mild fever (less than 101°F), medical treatment is often not required. You can follow these ayurvedic remedies to help reduce the fever or make yourself more comfortable while you deal with it.

Fasting: Ayurveda suggests that one of the fundamental approaches to managing fever is through fasting. According to Ayurvedic principles, eating can generate warmth in the body during a 'cold' state, while avoiding food can help cool it down when it's overheated. Fasting is believed to not only strengthen the immune system but also aid in the removal of toxins from the body. It clears the body's pathways and aids in the removal of any remaining toxic substances known as 'ama’.

Sponging: Sponging the forehead and the body with cold water is a commonly recommended practice for high fever and fever due to sun-stroke. It can help bring down a fever by cooling the body's surface. You can also add a few drops of peppermint oil to provide a soothing effect.

Sweating: According to Ayurveda, one traditional method to alleviate a fever is to "sweat it out." This age-old remedy involves inducing sweating through natural means, such as hot herbal teas, steam baths, or warm compresses. The belief is that by promoting perspiration, the body eliminates toxins and regulates temperature.

Rest: Resting is crucial for faster recovery from any type of fever, as physical activity can raise your body temperature and make the fever worse.

Lukewarm Bath: A lukewarm bath can help reduce body temperature and provide relief during a fever.

Stay Hydrated: Fever can lead to fluid loss and dehydration, so make sure to consume plenty of water, juices, and herbal teas.

Fever can compromise your immunity and weaken your body. These simple Ayurvedic remedies for fever can help manage a mild fever and support your body's natural healing process. Using Ayurvedic herbs and formulations will help in balancing the Doshas in your body and enhancing long-term immunity. However, if your fever persists, becomes very high, or is accompanied by severe symptoms, consult a doctor to understand if any serious infection is the cause of your fever.