Natural Remedies for Treating Fever in Toddlers

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When my daughter was little, I went down the rabbit hole of natural remedies to treat her fevers. I even reached for some of my grandma’s recipes from Brazil—she was always crafting her own remedies from herbs and spices for every little thing. I quickly learned that it’s usually best to let a fever run its course, as it’s the body’s way of fighting whatever bug might be causing it.

If she was still smiling, playing, eating, and staying hydrated during the day, I didn’t feel the need to intervene. But, of course, I monitored her through the night, making sure she was comfortable and getting the sleep her body needed to heal. On those rare occasions when her fever interrupted her rest, I’d use medicine. Today, I’m sharing some of those tried-and-true natural remedies for parents seeking gentle, natural ways to ease a fever in their little ones.

Let the Fever Run Its Course

A fever—especially a low-grade fever—is often a good thing, as it’s the body’s natural way of fighting a viral infection or bacterial infection. For young children and older kids, a slight increase in body temperature signals that white blood cells are doing their job. Monitoring your child’s temperature is essential, and tools like a digital multiuse thermometer or a rectal thermometer (for babies) are handy for accurate readings. Unless there’s an underlying cause, letting a fever run is often beneficial.

Skin-to-Skin

Sometimes, the simplest remedies are the most effective. Skin-to-skin contact is a powerful natural remedy that can help regulate a child’s temperature. Holding your child close, with their bare chest against yours, allows your body’s temperature to help bring theirs down naturally. This technique, often used with newborns, helps calm young children, provides a comforting connection, and can assist with keeping their body’s temperature in a comfortable range. Plus, this close contact promotes bonding and relaxation, which can be especially soothing if they’re feeling uncomfortable or restless.

Hydration

The best way to support your child’s immune system during a fever is to ensure they stay hydrated. Plenty of fluids help keep their body’s temperature regulated and prevent signs of dehydration. Offer a cup of water, coconut water, breast milk for younger babies, or bone broth for older children. Avoid sugary drinks or sodas. Keeping your little one hydrated goes a long way in supporting the body’s way of healing itself.

Lukewarm Bath

If your child’s fever causes discomfort, a lukewarm sponge bath can help bring down their temperature gradually. Use lukewarm water (never cold water, as it can cause shivering and raise body temperature). Let your child soak for about 10-15 minutes to help ease a high temperature. A lukewarm bath is especially helpful if your child has flu symptoms or a runny nose and needs a little soothing.

After the bath, dressing your child in lightweight clothing and covering them with a light blanket can help regulate body heat. Overdressing or heavy blankets can trap heat, causing the fever to worsen. Maintaining a comfortable room temperature and letting the child’s body naturally release heat helps prevent the body temperature from rising further.

Herbal Teas and Warm Liquids

Warm liquids can ease a sore throat or body aches. Herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, or peppermint are comforting and naturally soothing for young children. A soak in chamomile tea (just adding a chamomile tea bag to a bath) can also be calming. Ginger tea, made with a tablespoon of ginger powder in a cup of water, has immune-boosting benefits, while peppermint tea may ease body aches and help with hydration.

Essential Oils for Relaxation

A few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or eucalyptus, can help a restless child relax. Eucalyptus is often used in a diffuser to clear up a runny nose or congestion. Lavender can calm fussy little ones in the middle of the night. Always dilute essential oils properly, as they’re strong for young children, and ensure that they’re used safely.

Apple Cider Vinegar Soaks

Apple cider vinegar is a classic natural remedy I learned from my grandma. Add a cup of apple cider vinegar to a warm bath or mix a little with lukewarm water and soak a washcloth in it. Gently dab your child’s forehead, arms, or legs to help reduce body heat. This remedy has cooling effects and helps soothe a child’s fever, especially when they feel warm or flushed.

Vitamin C and Elderberry Syrup

Vitamin C is a natural immune booster, helping the body produce white blood cells. You can give your older child a vitamin C-rich drink, like diluted lemon juice with honey (for kids over one year of age). Elderberry syrup is another immune-boosting natural remedy that can be mixed with herbal teas or taken on its own.

Chicken Soup or Bone Broth

A warm bowl of chicken soup or bone broth can go a long way. These natural remedies are nourishing, hydrating, and easy on the stomach for a child with a fever. The vitamins and minerals in bone broth help support the immune system, making it a comforting choice when your child feels run-down.

While natural remedies are a great helping hand, it’s essential to monitor for any signs that professional medical attention might be needed. If your baby’s fever is high, lasts more than a few days, or if they show signs of dehydration, febrile seizures, or lethargy, consult a healthcare provider.

For babies younger than three months of age, a fever may require more urgent care, as young infants are more vulnerable to infection. A rectal temperature above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit in a young infant or a higher fever in older children are reasons to contact your healthcare provider.

Fever in young children can be unsettling, but it’s often the body’s immune system doing its job. By using gentle, natural remedies, you can support your child’s healing journey and provide comfort without rushing to fever reducers.

Every child is unique, so listen to their needs, keep them hydrated, and observe their comfort level. With love, warmth, and a few natural ways, you’ll be prepared to make them feel better in no time. Remember to always seek medical treatment if you feel your child’s fever is cause for concern—trust your instincts!