Common Fever
A common fever is described as when the temperature of the body rises above normal. When this happens, the normal function of the system is disturbed. Most people equate fevers with colds and flu. Some fevers, however, are just fevers. Others are symptoms of more severe illnesses. Having a fever serves an important purpose. The body raises its temperature in order to fight infection or injury.
Symptoms
Symptoms of fever may include slight shivering, head and body ache, thirst and fatigue. If a fever gets very high, the pulse and respiration quicken. As the fever peaks, there is a lot of sweating, the release of a large amount of concentrated urine and an overall relief of symptoms.
Causes
Common fever may be caused by infections, allergic reactions, medications, sunstroke, hyperthyroidism, cancer, hormone disorders, pneumonia, the flu, abscesses, and bacteria, virus, protozoa or a chemical or poison.
Cautions
Seek medical advise if your fever is prolonged and if the cause is unkown. Get help immediately if your child has a temperature above 38.5 degrees celcius, has a siezure or has dark red blotches. If a fever reaches 106 degrees Fahrenheit, immediate emergency procedures must be started. Remove the clothes and the body should be wrapped in a cotton sheet that has been dipped in ice-cold water. Wrap a blanket over the top. Change the sheet every 15 minutes.
Herbal Treatments
To build immune system:
- Echinacea, Andrographis and Chamomile, (as for the common cold).
Internal Applications
To fight fever and support the body during a common fever:
- Lemon – the juice is added to water and a pinch of salt can be added. This will keep the person with a fever hydrated.
- Horseradish – powdered root of horseradish is a remedy that has been traditionally used to bring down fever. Horseradish encourages perspiration.
- Elderflowers – combine 1 ounce elderflowers with 1 ounce of dried peppermint leaves and 1.2 a pint of distilled water. Heat in a saucepan and keep covered. Steep in a hot place for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not allow it to boil. Strain the herbs from the liquid. This tea may be sweetened with honey if desired. When drinking this tea, stay covered up to retain heat. This tea promotes perspiration.
- Bloodwort – prepare a hot infusion by steeping 15 grams of bloodwort in 2 pints of water. Take this twice a day. This herb induces perspiration, which will cool the body and help get rid of toxins.
- Catmint – this soothing herb makes a light tea that can promote perspiration and help bring a fever down to normal. Add 1 tablespoon dried catmint to 1 cup of boiling water. Allow the herb to steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the herb out and drink two to three times per day. The tea is relaxing and also promotes relaxation.
- Yarrow - infuse 2 - 4 grams of dried herb in 1 cup boiling water for 5 minutes, strain and drink 3 cups a day.
External Applications
- Rose – add rose water and a little vinegar to a bowl of cold water and apply to the forehead as a cold compress to lower fever. Use a cold compress if the temperature is over 103 degrees Fahrenheit.
Aromatherapy
Use juniper, chamomile and lavender essential oils as a rub. Add 3 drops of the essential oil into 10 ml of carrier oil. Rub on forehead and chest 2 - 3 times a day.