A fever occurs when the body's temperature goes above its normal value of 37°C (98.6°F). Fevers are an indication that your body's defence mechanism is fighting an infection. However, high and prolonged fevers can cause necrosis, infarctions, seizures and delirium. It becomes necessary to reduce high fevers if they make your child uncomfortable and irritable. Along with many home remedies to reduce fever, what most people are unaware of is the fact that a few unique essential oils can help.
5 Essential Oils for Fever
Researchers believe that reducing fevers can prolong the illness, causing the infectious agent to stay longer in the body. However, some oils can reduce your sick child's discomfort during fever and speed up healing.
1. Peppermint Oil
It is used to relieve respiratory problems and reduce fever. The chief component, menthol, clears the respiratory tract, making it easier for your child to breathe. Besides fever, this oil can relieve sinus pain, cough, bronchitis, nasal congestion, etc. Just add 2-3 drops to almond, olive or avocado oil and massage on your child's chest.
2. Eucalyptus and Lavender Oil
Also known as "fever oil", eucalyptus oil is one of the most popular essential oils for fever. And lavender oil calms your child and works well in combination with eucalyptus oil. Dilute 1 drop of eucalyptus oil and 3 drops of lavender oil with 1 cup of ice cold water. Soak a washcloth in this mixture and apply it on your child's forehead. Reapply when it gets warm.
3. Chamomile Oil
The oil is popular as a sudorific and febrifuge. Applying it on your child's skin can cause excessive sweating, which helps to flush out the harmful toxins or the infectious agents. This reduces your baby's body temperature and provides relief from fever. Add 2 drops of the oil in a bowl of warm water. Sponge your sick child with it, starting from the neck down.
4. Lemongrass Essential Oil
It is one of the best essential oils for fever, as it possesses anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. It is widely used as an analgesic and can reduce joint and muscular pain. It is also used for reducing toothaches and headaches arising due to flu or a common cold. Blend 2 drops of it with 1 tbsp. carrier oil of your choice. Apply this combination to your child's feet or temples for maximum relief.
5. Garlic, Olive Oil and Coconut Oil 
Crush two cloves of garlic and mix with 2-3 tbsp. of olive or coconut oil. Warm the mixture and apply it to the soles of your child's foot. Wrap each foot with a plastic and let it stay overnight. This mixture is very effective in reducing fevers.
Other Natural Fever Treatments
Besides applying the above-mentioned essential oils for fever, you can also follow some simple and natural home remedies below to make your sick child more comfortable.
- Wear less: You can help cool down your child's body temperature by reducing the layers of clothes on her body.
- Drink fluids: Dehydration can aggravate your baby's symptoms and even cause a spike in body temperature. Keep your child well hydrated. If she is unable to drink large quantities of fluids, even small sips of water can help.
- Warm bath: This can induce sweating, which lowers fever and soothes sore muscles in the body.
- Cold packs: You can apply a cold compress on your child's forehead or wrists to reduce fever. However, do not use ice cold water as it can induce shivers.
- Sponge her: If your child does not wish to have a bath, you could clean his or her body with a moist towel dipped in lukewarm water.
- Ice chips: You could increase your child's fluid intake by offering her ice slivers, popsicles or fruit bars.
- Use wet socks on her feet: If your child is fretful due to fever and won't rest, you could try the wet sock treatment. Wash your child's feet with warm water and dry them. Put on a pair of wet cotton socks on her feet and cover it with a pair of dry wool socks.