Reducing a fever: house­hold remedies can help

What is fever?

Fever is a defence response by the human body. Increased body tem­per­a­ture (> 38°C) and pronounced fatigue are typical symptoms.

Fever is a good thing

Chills and shivering are typical symptoms associated with fever. But it's the fever’s high temperature that enables the body to produce more white blood cells, which the immune system needs to fight bacteria or viruses. Why fever is useful to the body.

A time-tested household remedy: wrap up warmly

When the body temperature slowly begins to rise, we usually automatically turn to a home remedy: heat. Wrapping oneself up in a blanket on the sofa or lying in bed with a hot water bottle is especially good in this case. Take care not to get overheated.

Calf wraps to cool the body

If you want to lower the body’s tem­per­a­ture, calf wraps are a time-tested house­hold remedy. Add two table­spoons of lemon juice or vinegar to one litre of lukewarm water. Soak two tea towels in it, wring them out, and wrap smoothly around both calves from ankle to knee, avoiding creases. Then wrap a dry handtowel around each one. Cover yourself with a blanket and rest in bed for 10 to 15 minutes. If the fever hasn't dropped, repeat the procedure.

Sweating is a natural reaction

Sweating is a typical symptom associated with fever. It helps the body to gradually settle back to its cooler operating temperature. Because you lose fluid in the process, drink plenty: clear broth, diluted fruit juices, water or tea. Elderberry or linden teas in particular stimulate sweating.

When to see a doctor?

If the fever lasts longer than a few days, it's advisable to see a doctor. Also if temperatures exceed 40 degrees in adults or 39 degrees in children.