5 Best Essential Oils for Fever and How to use them

Fever is a common ailment that affects people of all ages. While over-the-counter medications are often the go-to solution, some individuals prefer a more natural approach to managing fever. This article explores the use of essential oils for fever relief and provides valuable insights into their effectiveness and safety.

Which essential oils can alleviate a fever?

When it comes to selecting essential oils for fever relief, it’s essential to choose the right ones with proven benefits. Here are some noteworthy options:

1. Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil is renowned for its cooling effect. It can help lower body temperature and provide relief from fever-induced discomfort. 

Benefits

• Fever Reduction: The high menthol content in peppermint oil provides a cooling effect, helping lower body temperature during a fever.
• Nausea and Vomiting Relief: Peppermint oil can alleviate the discomfort associated with nausea and vomiting, often experienced when unwell.
• Pain and Ache Management: It helps relieve body aches and headaches, making it an excellent choice for fever-related discomfort.
• Muscle Relaxation: Peppermint oil’s soothing properties can relax tense muscles and combat fatigue.
• Aromatherapy Benefits: Apart from physical relief, it offers mental relaxation and boosts the immune system through aromatherapy.

How to Use Peppermint Oil for Fever Relief

Using peppermint oil is simple and offers multiple ways to experience its healing potential:

• Warm Bath: Add a few drops of peppermint oil to a warm bath. This method is ideal for both adults and children.
• Compress: Create a soothing compress by combining a few drops of peppermint oil with cinnamon oil in warm water. Apply the cloth to the back of your neck and forehead for effective relief.
• Feet Application: Applying five drops of peppermint oil to the soles of your feet can help alleviate fever, nausea, pain, and body aches.
• Headache Relief: To combat headaches and fever, mix two drops of peppermint oil with a carrier oil and massage it onto your temples and forehead. This not only alleviates pain but also promotes relaxation.

2. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is a versatile remedy known for its efficacy in addressing respiratory issues frequently associated with fevers. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it a valuable choice.

Key Benefits:

• Cooling Effect: Eucalyptus oil has a natural cooling effect, making it an ideal choice for lowering body temperature during a fever. This not only provides relief but also helps ease the associated discomfort.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: It possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can assist in reducing pain and inflammation that often accompany fevers.
• Antimicrobial Action: Eucalyptus oil is renowned for its ability to combat a variety of infections. Laboratory tests have shown that it can effectively eliminate bacteria responsible for illnesses like strep throat and E. coli stomach infections, as well as fungi causing yeast infections.
• Respiratory Relief: For individuals experiencing congestion, eucalyptus oil can provide much-needed relief. It aids in clearing excess mucus and phlegm, thereby improving breathing and alleviating symptoms such as coughs and runny noses.

How to Use Eucalyptus Oil for Fever:

To harness the benefits of eucalyptus oil for fever relief, consider the following method:

Ingredients:

• 3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
• 2 drops of lavender essential oil
• Cold water
• Washcloth

Instructions:

• Begin by soaking a washcloth in a small bowl of cold water.
• Add 3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil and 2 drops of lavender oil to the water.
• Gently squeeze the washcloth to mix the oils with the water.
• Place the cold compress on the forehead for a few minutes, allowing the soothing properties of eucalyptus to work their magic.
• This process can be repeated up to three times a day for effective fever management.

3. Lavender oil

Lavender oil is celebrated for its calming and soothing qualities. It can help reduce the stress and discomfort associated with fever. 

Benefits

• Temperature Reduction: Lavender oil can help lower body temperature by reducing inflammation and promoting improved blood circulation. This, in turn, aids in the rapid relief of fever.
• Stress Reduction: The calming and sedative properties of lavender oil can effectively reduce stress levels, providing comfort and relief during a fever.
• Improved Sleep: Lavender oil is known to enhance the quality of sleep during a fever, making the recovery process more comfortable.
• Nervous System Calming: Research suggests that lavender oil can calm the nervous system, potentially alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety, commonly associated with fever.
• Symptom Relief: Lavender oil’s anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and analgesic properties can help alleviate various symptoms related to fever, including pain and discomfort.

How to Use Lavender Oil for Fever Relief

To make the most of lavender oil’s fever-fighting properties, follow these steps:

• Dilute the Oil: Lavender oil is potent, so always dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil before applying it to your skin. A safe ratio is usually a few drops of lavender oil to a teaspoon of carrier oil.
• Topical Application: Apply the diluted lavender oil to your temples, wrists, or the soles of your feet. Gently massage it in to help with absorption. This can help reduce body temperature and provide relief from discomfort.
• Aromatherapy: Diffusing lavender oil in your room can promote better sleep and create a soothing atmosphere. A few drops in a diffuser will do the trick.
• Inhalation: Inhaling lavender oil can have a calming effect. Add a few drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. This can also help relieve nasal congestion that may accompany fever.
• Pillow Application: Placing a few drops of diluted lavender oil on your pillow can promote better sleep during a fever.
• Bath Soak: Add a few drops of lavender oil to a warm bath. Soaking in it can help reduce body temperature and provide relaxation.

4. Frankincense oil

Frankincense, with its rich history of medicinal use, holds a multitude of benefits, particularly in addressing fever-related concerns. This unique essential oil possesses an array of properties that make it a valuable addition to your wellness toolkit. In this section, we’ll explore the benefits of frankincense oil for fever and how to use it effectively.

Benefits:

• Immune Boosting: Frankincense oil has a well-documented track record for boosting immunity. Its immune-enhancing properties help the body’s defense mechanisms to combat fever more effectively.
• Anti-Inflammatory: This essential oil is revered for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal choice for reducing fever-related muscle aches and inflammation.
• Antibacterial and Antifungal: Frankincense oil’s antibacterial and antifungal properties come into play when addressing fever conditions. These qualities can contribute to the overall relief and management of fever.

How to Use Frankincense Oil for Fever:

To harness the potential of frankincense oil for fever relief, follow these steps:

• Proper Dilution: Begin by diluting frankincense oil with a carrier oil. A recommended ratio is 2-3 drops of frankincense oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. This ensures safety and prevents skin irritation.
• Topical Application: Apply the diluted mixture to specific areas of your body, such as your temples, wrists, or the soles of your feet. The oil can assist in relieving fever-induced muscle aches and discomfort.
• Inhalation for Added Relief: For an alternative approach, use a diffuser to disperse frankincense oil into the air. Inhaling the aromatic vapor can provide additional relief by soothing fever symptoms.

5. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil, with its remarkable antimicrobial properties, is a valuable ally in combatting infections that may be causing a fever. This potent oil can be effectively used in aromatherapy or when appropriately diluted with a carrier oil.

Benefits

• Antimicrobial Power: Tea tree oil’s active compounds, terpenes, make it a potent antimicrobial agent. It effectively fights off bacteria and viruses, providing a strong defense against infections, including those causing fever.
• Anti-Inflammatory Action: Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling, redness, irritation, and pain. This makes it valuable for soothing inflammation associated with fever.
• Relief from Dandruff: Tea tree oil has been proven to combat fungi responsible for hair and scalp dandruff, enhancing overall scalp health.

How to Use Tea Tree Oil for Fever:

• Mix 3-4 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of sweet almond oil.
• Gently massage this mixture onto the forehead, neck, and shoulders. This can help alleviate fever symptoms and provide relief.

Prioritizing Quality

Choosing high-quality essential oils is vital. They are pure, effective, and safe, with ethical sourcing. Quality ensures consistent, reliable results when using essential oils for fever relief. Opt for trusted brands or suppliers for the best outcomes.

How to use essential oils for fever

Utilizing essential oils for fever relief requires a methodical approach. Here are some effective ways to incorporate them into your routine:

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy involves inhaling the essential oil’s aroma. You can use a diffuser or add a few drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.

Topical application

For topical application, dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) and gently rub them on your skin. Pay attention to pulse points like the wrists and temples.

Steam inhalation

Boil a pot of water, remove it from heat, and add a few drops of your chosen essential oil. Create a tent with a towel over your head and inhale the steam.

Diffusers

Diffusers disperse essential oils into the air. They are an excellent way to enjoy the benefits of essential oils continuously.

Side effects and precautions

It’s crucial to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions when using essential oils for fever:

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to specific essential oils. Always perform a patch test first.
• Skin sensitivity: Essential oils can cause skin irritation if not properly diluted. Dilute them to a safe concentration.
• Precautions during pregnancy: Pregnant women should consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
• Consulting a healthcare professional: If your fever is persistent or accompanied by severe symptoms, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Other home remedies for fever

In addition to essential oils, other home remedies can help manage a fever:

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Rest: Give your body the rest it needs to recover.
• Over-the-counter medication: Over-the-counter fever reducers can provide relief.
• Herbal teas: Herbal teas like chamomile and ginger can have soothing effects.

When to see a doctor

While essential oils and home remedies can offer relief, there are instances when you should seek medical attention:

• Persistent high fever
• Breathing difficulties
• Seizures

Conclusion

In conclusion, essential oils can be a natural and holistic approach to managing fever. While they can offer relief and comfort, it’s important to remember that essential oils are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you or someone you know is experiencing a fever, especially if it’s severe or persistent, consult a healthcare professional. Essential oils can complement conventional treatments and provide an additional layer of comfort during the healing process.