I remember the first time my baby had a fever. It went straight up to 39 degrees, and I was beside myself with worry! I called a friend and she told me that I needed to go to emergency because she was so young. She was 5 months old. We got to emergency, and they checked her out for any other symptoms. There wasn’t any, so they sent us home and told us to manage her temperature at home ourselves with medication. I remember feeling so guilty giving her back-to-back Panadol and Nurofen as recommended by the doctors. It was then I started to look for other, more natural ways to soothe a fever at home.

 One thing to note, fevers are safe, when they are just a fever. A fever is the body’s way of controlling its immune response. Your child’s body is controlling the temperature and it’s going to fluctuate no matter what you do. Don’t awaken a child from a deep sleep to give something to soothe the fever, sleep is more important.

If your child has no other symptoms but a fever, there are a number of ways that you can ease this.

1. A Bath – a lukewarm bath is always a good idea with a fever. Don’t make it too cold as it can cause shivering.
2. Herbal Teas - Herbal teas are a great choice in aiding a fever. Not only do they help keep you hydrated, but they can produce perspiration while also strengthening your immune system to help you get better faster. Elderflower (magic flower tea), peppermint (superhero tea) and lemon balm (night night tea) are all known to assist in the treatment of fevers. Chamomile teais one of the best natural remedies for fever in a toddler.
3. Change clothing - Light clothing and lower room temperatures. When my child is sick I want to just wrap them up in a blanket and cuddle them. Make sure they are resting but not covered in layers and use only a light blanket if you must use one.
4. Fruit Popsicles – popsicles are a great idea as they are cold and they are hydrating, a little bit of sugar can help to perk you up. I make tea popsicles and get double the benefit.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar - an old remedy used by grandmothers and great-grandmothers that is thought to “draw out” the fever – people still swear by it! Soak a couple washcloths in diluted apple cider vinegar (1 part vinegar and 2 parts water), then place them on the forehead and tummy, or add a cup to a warm bath. Some people also soak a cloth in and wrap it around the soles of the patient’s feet.

A high fever can be more dangerous for a young child than an adult. Here’s when to call your child’s doctor:

• Children ages 0 to 3 months:Rectal temperature is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
• Children ages 3 to 6 months:Rectal temperature is above 102°F (39°C) and they’re irritable or sleepy.
• Children ages 6 to 24 months: Rectal temperature is above 102°F (39°C) that lasts for more than a day. If they have other symptoms, such as a rash, cough, or diarrhea, you may want to call sooner.