For most of us, our lives are packed with work, commitments and obligations. Although we try to schedule in some time to relax and enjoy life, most of us feel like we are in a daily whirlwind, trying to keep up with our demanding schedules. We say to ourselves, “I have no time to get sick!” and we slam down a few Echinacea caps and Vitamin C and hope for the best.
But what if the inevitable happens? One morning, we wake up with the flu and a high fever. How did we go from being healthy and vital to down for the count? Don’t worry, while your fever is a good sign of fighting off infection, we also have natural fever remedies you can use.
How Do We Get a Fever?
When we are fighting off a pathogen, IL-1 (DEF) and pyrogens (produced by bacterium that cause fever) are released into the bloodstream, making their way to the hypothalamus. One of the jobs of the hypothalamus is to make sure that our body temperature remains at 98.6. However, with invading pathogens, adjustments need to be made in our body temperature in order to fight the good fight!
The hypothalamus gets to work to raise the body temperature a few degrees in order to kill the bad bugs. It produces a biochemical called PGE-2 that increases the temperature to a set point, perhaps 101 or 102. The hypothalamus determines the set point according to what is needed to protect the body from the invaders.
That is when we temporarily hate our life. High fevers are no fun. And of course, that is when it is tempting to reach for the Tylenol or Advil to bring down the fever so we can be more comfortable. But what if a fever is beneficial? We feel another 180° Solution™ coming…
Fevers Can Be a Good Thing
When our temperature is elevated, a massive amount of white blood cells (that kill off the bad guys) are circulating for the kill.
Also when our fever is elevated, interferon production is increased. Why is that so important? Because interferon is an immune substance that protects our healthy cells from being invaded by viruses. Fevers also put iron temporarily into protective custody, which is beneficial as iron is a favorite nutrient source for bacteria.
And although one would think that pathogens are fine with higher body temperatures, it is the opposite. They thrive in the cool environment of the nasal passages during the fall and winter months. So when you have a fever, it is the germs begging to turn down the furnace.
What To Do?
The optimal fever to fight off microbes is considered to be between 102-103. Is that a fun idea? No. But you are doing the body a great service if you can follow these natural fever remedies and tips.
Because a fever typically slows down peristalsis and bowels are not emptying normally, it is best to either fast on pure water or drink bone broth until the fever breaks. We have written about the many reasons why fasting is so important, but in the case of fever, it gives the body a chance to gobble up a tremendous amount of pathogen debris.
Of course, it is imperative that we rest. We know that is a foreign concept to most, but when my animals get sick, they curl up into a fetal position, they fast, and they sleep around the clock until the body is well. It is as they are going into some kind of self-induced hibernation in order to give their body a real chance to do its job. So turn off the cell phone, turn off the computer, abstain from exercise and go to bed!
When is a Fever Too High?
Any fever above 104, especially if it lasts past one day, should be checked out with your doctor. And of course, for your little ones, it is very scary to feel their little pounding heart beats and it is so tempting to give a fever reducer. But if they have a fever that is under 103.5, then perhaps you can find ways to make them more comfortable.
What We Need in Our Medicine Cabinet
When you fall prey to a nasty bug, it is NOT the time to rush to Wholefoods to pick up herbs and natural immune boosters. Here are a few things to have on hand.
Natural Fever Remedies (Immune Boosters):
Olive leaf extract is known for its potent antiviral effects. If your office or family is sick, take it every day for protection. Black elderberry has the potential to coat invading viruses and usher them out of our body before they infect healthy cells. That should be taken daily as well.
And of course, increase your daily dose of Vitamin D3 to at least 10,000 IUs for 3-4 days, unless otherwise advised from your doctor. Systemic formula’s has a stunning liquid Vitamin D3 that contains both Vitamin K2 and Vitamin A, a superpower duo.
Andographis paniculta, has been in the limelight as a brilliant flu fighter and immune system booster. Originating from north-eastern India, it is called Maha Tikha which means king of bitters. In Chinese medicine, it is referred to as Chuan Xin Lian, and it known for its extraordinary effects to clear toxic heat, and as a detoxifying an antisepsis herb. It is also a very popular remedy for severe sore throat and infection.
Natural Fever Remedies When You Are Sick:
There are 4 products that are essential to have your medicine cabinet when you are sick:
We always advise to have these on hand in tincture form, as it is so much easier to put them in liquid and take them multiple times per day.
In review, make sure you get proper rest each night, stay on the Cellular Healing Diet and hydrate. Please call Revelation Health today (888.600.0642) and order what you need to fight off fever and flu before you get sick.
- Intermittent Fasting – A Top 5 Strategy to Create Your Best Health Ever
- Bone Broth Fast
- Burst Training – A Top 5 Strategy to Create Your Best Health Ever
- Top Sleep and Anxiety Strategies
- CTV – Vitamin C
- “Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child” by Janet Zand
- Olive Leaf Extract
- DV3 – Immune Support
- VITD3 Liquid
- Immunitone Plus
- Zinca Stop
- CXVIVI: Virox
- CX3: Bactrex
- CXGt: Thymus