10 Best Herbal Teas For Fever

Herbal teas can be a natural and soothing remedy for fever, offering gentle relief without the side effects of over-the-counter medications.

Common herbs used in fever-reducing teas include willow bark, echinacea, ginger, and peppermint, each known for their anti-inflammatory and cooling properties. These teas work by promoting sweating, which helps lower body temperature, and by supporting the immune system to fight off underlying infections. To prepare a fever tea, simply steep the dried herbs in hot water for several minutes, and drink it in small sips while staying hydrated.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal teas, especially for children, elderly individuals, or those with chronic health conditions.

1. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a popular herbal remedy often used to support the immune system.

While it is traditionally used to prevent or shorten the duration of colds and flu, some studies suggest it may also have a role in managing fever by reducing inflammation and enhancing immune response. Herbal teas made from Echinacea purpurea are typically prepared by steeping dried leaves and flowers in hot water, resulting in a mild, slightly bitter beverage. These teas are often consumed during the early stages of illness to help the body fight off infection more effectively.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using echinacea, especially for prolonged periods or in combination with other medications.

2. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as thyme, is a popular herb used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of fever.

The essential oils in thyme, particularly thymol, possess antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can support the body's natural healing process. When brewed into a tea, thyme can help reduce body temperature and soothe respiratory discomfort often associated with fever. It is typically consumed warm and may be combined with other herbs like lemon or ginger for enhanced benefits.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using thyme tea, especially for children or individuals with chronic health conditions.

3. Sambucus nigra

Sambucus nigra, also known as European elderberry, is commonly used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of fever due to its high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

The berries contain flavonoids and vitamin C, which may support the immune system and reduce the duration of feverish illnesses. When brewed as a tea, sambucus nigra can help promote sweating, which may assist in lowering body temperature. However, it is important to use it in moderation and consult a healthcare provider, especially for those with diabetes or those taking medications, as it may interact with certain drugs.

Overall, sambucus nigra herbal tea is a traditional remedy that may offer supportive benefits for managing fever when used appropriately.

4. Mentha piperita

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms associated with fever.

The cooling properties of peppermint can help reduce body temperature and provide a soothing effect, making it a popular choice for those experiencing mild fevers. Peppermint tea is also known to ease headaches and muscle aches that often accompany feverish conditions. It is typically prepared by steeping fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for several minutes.

While it may offer comfort, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for persistent or high fevers, as herbal teas should not replace medical treatment.

5. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of fever due to its anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, are believed to support the body’s natural processes in reducing fever by promoting sweating and improving circulation. When brewed into a tea, ginger can help soothe the throat and reduce nausea, which are common symptoms accompanying fever. However, it is important to note that while ginger tea may provide symptomatic relief, it should not replace medical treatment for high or persistent fever.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using ginger tea, especially for children, pregnant women, or individuals with chronic health conditions.

6. Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green and black teas are derived, contains bioactive compounds such as catechins and polyphenols that may help reduce fever by supporting the body's immune response.

These compounds possess mild antipyretic properties, which can help lower body temperature by promoting sweating and reducing inflammation. While Camellia sinensis herbal teas are not a substitute for medical treatment, they can serve as a complementary remedy to aid in fever management. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of these teas may vary, and they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Overall, Camellia sinensis herbal teas may offer a natural and soothing option for those seeking to alleviate mild fever symptoms.

7. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of fever due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant contains compounds such as thujone and rosmarinic acid, which may contribute to its fever-reducing effects by supporting the body's immune response. When brewed into a tea, sage can help soothe sore throats and reduce body temperature, making it a popular remedy in natural medicine. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using sage tea, especially for prolonged periods or in high doses, as it may interact with certain medications.

Despite its traditional use, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for fever remains limited, and it should be used as a complementary, not a substitute, treatment.

8. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential therapeutic benefits, including its use in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of fever.

When prepared as a tea, stinging nettle is believed to support the body's natural detoxification processes and may help reduce fever by promoting sweating and lowering body temperature. The tea is often consumed warm, and it is thought to have mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to its fever-reducing effects. While it is not a substitute for conventional fever treatments, some people use stinging nettle tea as a complementary remedy to support recovery.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially for prolonged periods or in combination with other medications.

9. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a herbal plant widely used in traditional medicine for its various health benefits.

Rosemary herbal teas are often recommended to help reduce fever due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The essential oils in rosemary, such as cineole and camphor, contribute to its ability to support the body's natural healing processes. When consumed as a tea, rosemary can help stimulate circulation and promote sweating, which may aid in lowering body temperature.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using rosemary tea, especially for those with existing medical conditions or who are pregnant.

10. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is a herbal plant often used in traditional medicine for its various therapeutic properties.

While it is well-known for its potential benefits in treating mild depression, it has also been explored for its antipyretic effects, which can help reduce fever. Some studies suggest that the active compounds in St. John's Wort, such as hypericin and hyperforin, may have mild fever-reducing properties by influencing inflammatory responses in the body. However, it is important to note that hypericum perforatum is not a primary treatment for high fever and should not replace conventional medical care.

When used as a herbal tea, it is generally considered safe for short-term use, though it can interact with certain medications and should be used with caution under professional guidance.