Kid’s got a fever? Pause & take a breath. Then read this:
Well, it's September. A good time to discuss FEVERS 🤒
Fevers are the body's natural defense against infection. It's a beautifully designed mechanism to kill the bad by scorching them! 🔥
Fevers are not typically an emergency concern until they reach crazy high levels or persist.
We have been told to "control" the fever (repress) the moment we have one. But when we do that too quickly, we don't ever let the body clear up whatever is causing the illness.
Repressing a fever can disrupt the body’s natural healing process which can:
🤢 Prolong the illness
🦝 Mask the symptoms & complicate diagnosis
👎🏼 Increase the risk of complications
🌡️ Weaken your immunity
☣️ Open you up to side effects of meds
So, allowing a fever to run its course is definitely the best option if you can!
Some general guidelines of concern include:
Any Fever in infants under 6 months old 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, it’s recommended to seek immediate medical attention.
Children (6 months - 2 years) with a moderate to high fever & co-symptoms, typically 102°F (38.9°C) or higher with crying, irritability, lethargy, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or rash.
In Children (2 years and older) a high Fever is considered 104°F (40°C) or higher, especially with severe symptoms like headache, stiff neck, confusion, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, or seizure.
Severe Symptoms: Any fever with severe headache, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, confusion, or seizure.
Febrile Seizures: These typically occur in children with a rapid rise in temperature, even if the fever isn't extremely high. Immediate medical advice is recommended.
In many cases, the above criteria are not met, but we are still encouraged to “manage” the fever, and fearful that if we don’t something bad will happen.
Like anything, when you're trying to do things drug-free, it doesn't mean do NOTHING.
Here’s how to support the process naturally strengthening your body with substances and nutrients that help your body do that natural process as effectively as possible 💪🏼Elderberry: Rich in antioxidants, elderberry can help reduce the duration and severity of fever by boosting immune function.
Belladonna: For sudden onset of high fever with red, hot skin.
Aconite: Ideal for fever that comes on suddenly after exposure to cold or wind.
Gelsemium: Best for fever with chills and fatigue.
Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps the body regulate temperature and flush out toxins.
Rest: Giving your body time to rest allows it to use energy to fight the infection, rather than expending it elsewhere.
Vitamin C: Supports the immune system and can help shorten the duration of a fever.
Zinc: Plays a crucial role in immune function, helping to speed up recovery.
If you choose to use acetaminophen because it's been long enough to be concerning, reach for @genexa to avoid the dyes and fillers.
Apply a cool, damp cloth to the forehead or back of the neck to provide comfort. Avoid cold baths, as they can cause chills and increase discomfort.
Reducing processed food intake all the time to avoid being ill is always a good idea.
Peppermint Oil: Can be diluted and applied to the temples or chest to help cool the body.
Lavender Oil: Known for its calming properties, it can promote relaxation and sleep.
Check out Josee’s natural medicine cabinet selections on Fullscript
A quick overview of germ vs terrain theory:
It’s really important in the conversation of fevers, immunity and “sick season” to talk about these two theories.
We take a balanced perspective between germ theory and terrain theory believing it can offer a comprehensive approach to health.
Germ theory, introduced by Louis Pasteur, emphasizes that specific microorganisms, like bacteria and viruses, are the primary causes of disease. In contrast, terrain theory, championed by Claude Bernard and later Antoine Béchamp, suggests that the internal environment or "terrain" of the body is what determines our susceptibility to disease. The idea is that if our body's internal environment is healthy, germs will be less likely to cause illness.
Both theories have merit, and a middle-ground approach can provide a more holistic view of health.
Here’s how:
Germs as Triggers, Not Sole Causes:
Germs are undeniably associated with diseases, but they don’t always cause illness. Their ability to cause harm often depends on the state of the body’s internal environment. For example, not everyone exposed to a virus gets sick—this suggests that the body’s terrain plays a significant role in determining susceptibility.
The Importance of Body Ecology:
Just as a garden thrives when the soil is healthy, our bodies flourish when our internal terrain is balanced and "clean." This means maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, balanced pH levels, proper hydration, and nutrient-rich diets to support immune function.
A clean body ecology reduces the likelihood of pathogenic germs taking hold. When our terrain is compromised—due to poor diet, stress, toxins, or lack of sleep—germs find it easier to thrive and cause disease.
Hygiene and Immune Support:
While germ theory supports the importance of hygiene and vaccination to prevent infections, terrain theory emphasizes the need for lifestyle practices that strengthen the body’s natural defenses. Both are important: washing hands, for instance, reduces exposure to harmful microbes, while a nutrient-dense diet supports immune function.
Detoxification and Nutrient Supply:
Regular detoxification helps eliminate toxins that could disrupt the body’s terrain, while ensuring the body is well-nourished supports the immune system. Together, these practices create an environment where germs are less likely to lead to illness.
Stress Management and Mental Health:
Mental and emotional health also influence the body’s terrain. Chronic stress, for example, can weaken the immune system and alter the gut microbiome, making the body more susceptible to illness. Therefore, managing stress through mindfulness, exercise, and adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining a resilient terrain.
A clean body terrain allows the immune system to function optimally, making fevers an effective response to infection rather than a cause for concern. When the body's internal environment is balanced, natural remedies like hydration, rest, and herbal treatments are more likely to support the fever's role in fighting off illness. Conversely, if the terrain is compromised by poor diet or toxins, the body may struggle to regulate the fever, increasing the risk of complications. Keeping your terrain clean ensures that fevers can do their job efficiently, reducing the need for aggressive medical interventions.
Happy September 🍂 🍁 and we’re rooting for you as the seasons change!!!!
