Fevers
The human body typically has a core body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Beyond that, the person has pyrexia or, in common language, fever. A fever often is a result of an underlying illness or abnormal condition. Microbial infections, dehydration, overexertion, allergic and toxic reactions and other factors cause the abnormal increase in body temperature. It is the body’s immune response to defend and ward off further bacterial or viral invasions. It is said that the body tries to raise the body core temperature to keep microbial infections down.
Kid having a fever
However, the inconvenience brought by a fever is sometimes unavoidable. People treat the fever to be able to get on with school, work and chores. For temperatures less than 38.9°C (102°F) among children and adults, fluid intake is often the best treatment. But for temperatures above that, doctors usually prescribe medications. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen and other analgesics are often the medicines taken to decrease the symptoms of fever. Additionally, there are natural and herbal alternatives to these typical meds. The table below gives a listing of herbal fever remedies.
Herb Description, Treatment & Procedures
Lagundi
(Vitex negundo L) Even if lagundi is recognized as an effective expectorant, it is also known to bring down fevers. It is a common herbal plant found in the Philippines. The dried or fresh lagundi leaves are boiled. Drinking this will provide fever relief.
Ginger
(Zingiber officinalis) Ginger is regarded as one of the powerful herbs known for many medicinal and cooking uses. It is effective and safe in the treatment of colds and flu especially among children. Ginger tea, whether from powdered ginger or from ginger extracts added to boiling water, reduces pyrexia and at the same time relieves colds. Drinking several cups a day should cure a fever.
Gumamela
(Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) In the Philippines, gumamela is a common ornamental flower. Yet, it has medicinal properties for the treatment of fever and other common respiratory illnesses. You can use dried or fresh gumamela flowers and/or leaves added to boiling water. Once cool enough to drink, you can take in several cups.
Peppermint
(Mentha x piperita) In the Philippines, peppermint is also known as yerba buena. It is an herb from the mint family globally known for its healing properties including fever reduction. Peppermint decoction, usually using dried leaves, is a known analgesic and should be taken hot to break the fever.
Links for Further Fever Herbal Study
Video
1. How to Bring a Fever Down: Herbal Remedies to Bring a Fever Down
Herbal Remedies to Bring a Fever Down video from a medical expert. Reduce your sick time with this great series.
Philippine Herbs
1. Philippines Herbal Medicine
International Herbs
1. Holistic Online
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