By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Chills
Herbal decoctions for chills are warm, comforting beverages made by steeping herbs in hot water to release their medicinal properties.
These decoctions help alleviate chills by stimulating the body's natural warming mechanisms and soothing cold-related discomforts. Examples of herbal decoctions that can help with chills include ginger tea, which warms the stomach and improves circulation, and peppermint tea, which cools and relaxes the body.
By sipping on these teas, people suffering from chills can find relief and improve their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for chills, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea purpurea
- 2. Ginkgo biloba
- 3. Mentha x piperita
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Galega officinalis
- 6. Verbena officinalis
- 7. Thymus vulgaris
- 8. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 9. Melissa officinalis
- 10. Sambucus nigra
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for chills?
- What ailments similar to chills are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower decoctions helps with chills because of its antipyretic properties, which help to reduce fever and relieve discomfort.
The decoction's bioactive compounds, including rosmarinic acid and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory effects that soothe the body and calm shivering. Additionally, the decoction's antioxidant properties help to combat oxidative stress, which can contribute to chills.
By addressing these underlying causes, purple coneflower decoctions provide natural relief from chills, helping to promote a sense of warmth and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with chills.
- Ishagerins: These sesquiterpene lactones may help with chills by exerting anti-inflammatory effects and modulating immune responses.
- Cichoric acid: A phenolic compound, cichoric acid may help with chills by exhibiting antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with infections.
- Alkylamides: These non-nitrogenous compounds may help with chills by increasing the production of cytokines, which are proteins that help fight off infections and reduce inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for chills.
- Roots: Echinacea purpurea roots are one of the most used parts due to their high concentration of alkaloids and glycosides, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: Echinacea purpurea flowers are widely used for their immunomodulatory effects, helping to boost the body's natural defenses against infections and chills.
- Leaves: Echinacea purpurea leaves are often utilized due to their rich content of caffeic acid and other phenolic compounds, which exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for chills.
- Gather 30 grams of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves from a trusted source.
- Crush the dried echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the powdered echinacea purpurea with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a pot.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with chills because of its unique properties that help to calm the body's natural response to cold temperatures.
The decoction is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which work together to reduce inflammation and ease congestion in the nasal passages and sinuses.
Additionally, the decoction's warming effects help to increase blood flow and relax muscles, making it easier for the body to regulate its temperature and overcome chills.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with chills.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, which can help alleviate the sensation of chills and coldness associated with poor circulation.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate the effects of cold stress and chills by protecting the body against oxidative damage.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid acts as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce the severity of chills and coldness by preventing the formation of pro-inflammatory molecules and promoting vasodilation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for chills.
- Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are the most commonly used part, as they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used in decoctions to help warm the body and relieve chills due to their ability to stimulate the circulation of blood and the release of body heat.
- Barks: Ginkgo biloba barks are used to make decoctions that help to warm the body and relieve chills, as they contain compounds that can stimulate blood circulation and improve the body's ability to generate heat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for chills.
- Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and 1 quart of water for this herbal decoction.
- Combine the dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 1 quart of water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 3-5 minutes at a medium heat setting.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes after boiling.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
3. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with chills because its menthol content provides a soothing and calming effect on the body.
When consumed as a warm tea, it can help to relax the muscles and ease the sensation of coldness, providing relief from chills.
Additionally, peppermint's natural warming properties can also help to stimulate blood flow and increase body temperature, further aiding in the alleviation of chill symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with chills.
- Menthol: Menthol, a terpene compound found in Mentha x piperita decoctions, helps alleviate chills by stimulating the brain's cold receptors and increasing circulation to warm the body.
- Menthone: Menthone, another terpene compound in the decoction, has a warming effect on the body by increasing the sensation of heat and reducing the feeling of coldness.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound found in Mentha x piperita, helps to reduce inflammation and promote blood flow, which can help the body warm up and combat chills.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for chills.
- Leaves: Due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have natural cooling and decongestant properties.
- Roots: As they contain a higher concentration of menthol and other compounds that help to relieve chills and fever.
- Buds: Since they have a higher concentration of menthol and other active compounds than mature leaves, making them more effective for decoctions targeting chills.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for chills.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the morning.
- Chop the leaves into small pieces to facilitate even infusion in boiling water.
- Combine the chopped leaves with 500ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active ingredients to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender decoctions helps with chills because it possesses natural antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties.
When consumed as a warm tea, the flavonoids and volatile oils in lavender work to soothe the body and mind, reducing fever and shaking sensations associated with chills.
Additionally, the herb's antimicrobial properties help combat underlying infections that may be causing the chill, promoting overall well-being and relief from discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia decoctions that help with chills.
- Linalool: Linalool is a terpene that helps with chills due to its analgesic and antipyretic properties, which can help reduce pain and lower body temperature.
- Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate is a terpene ester that contributes to the antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects of Lavandula angustifolia, helping to alleviate chills and discomfort.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound that possesses antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce fever and alleviate chills by mitigating the underlying infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make decoctions for chills.
- Leaves: They are used to make decoctions for chills due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: They are used to make decoctions for chills due to their calming and antispasmodic effects, which help reduce fever and alleviate discomfort.
- Stems: They are used to make decoctions for chills due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm the body.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for chills.
- Harvest fresh or dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated for better quality.
- Dry the harvested flowers using a low-temperature dehydrator at 100 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Measure out 2 teaspoons of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers for every 1 cup of water.
- Combine the measured flowers with boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes before straining and serving as a herbal decoction.
5. Galega officinalis
Goat's rue decoctions helps with chills because of its unique ability to warm and invigorate the body.
The herb's active compounds, such as coumarin and glycosides, are known to stimulate blood circulation and increase metabolic rate, which helps to raise the body's natural temperature and alleviate feelings of chilliness. Additionally, goat's rue decoctions have been traditionally used to treat respiratory issues, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, which can often cause chills in patients.
By promoting a healthy inflammatory response, goat's rue decoctions may also help to reduce congestion and alleviate coughing fits.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Galega officinalis decoctions that help with chills.
- Lithospermic acid: It helps with chills by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the body's response to infection and alleviate symptoms associated with chills.
- Lithospermol: It contributes to the reduction of chills by showing antimicrobial properties, which can help combat underlying infections that may be causing the chills.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with chills by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the severity of chills and alleviate related symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goat's rue used to make decoctions for chills.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of medicinal compounds.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their antipyretic properties, helping to reduce fever.
- Barks: The barks are utilized for their warming and stimulating effects, which help to combat chills and coldness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goat's rue for chills.
- Harvest approximately 20-30 grams of dried roots and rhizomes from mature galega officinalis plants in late summer.
- Chop the dried roots and rhizomes into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Combine 20-30 grams of chopped roots and rhizomes with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the herbal constituents to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to separate the liquid from solids.
6. Verbena officinalis
Lemon verbena decoctions helps with chills because of its unique composition that combines antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's citral content helps to soothe and calm the body's natural response to infection, reducing fever and shivering. Additionally, lemon verbena's warming properties stimulate blood circulation, increasing heat production and helping to raise the body's internal temperature, providing relief from chills and discomfort.
As a result, lemon verbena decoctions can effectively alleviate chill symptoms, promoting overall wellness and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbena officinalis decoctions that help with chills.
- Limonene: A terpene that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate chills by reducing inflammation in the body.
- Verbascoside: A phenolic glycoside that has been found to have antipyretic properties, which can help lower fever and alleviate chills.
- Asperuloside: A phenolic glycoside that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and lower fever, thus alleviating chills.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make decoctions for chills.
- Roots: The roots contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help alleviate chills and fever.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in tannins, which have a cooling effect and help reduce fever and alleviate chills.
- Flowers: The flowers have antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, which aid in relieving chills and fever by promoting sweating and reducing inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon verbena for chills.
- Harvest fresh or dried roots of verbena officinalis in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Clean the roots by gently scrubbing them with a soft brush under cold running water.
- Weigh out 10-15 grams of the cleaned verbena officinalis roots for a decoction.
- Combine the weighed roots with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Simmer the mixture for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the roots are soft.
7. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme decoctions helps with chills because of its natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The essential oils present in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to help combat viral and bacterial infections that often cause chills. As the decoction is absorbed into the body, it helps to reduce inflammation and fever, providing relief from symptoms like shivering and sweating.
Additionally, thyme's expectorant properties can also help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, further alleviating congestion and discomfort associated with chills.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris decoctions that help with chills.
- Thymol: A phenolic compound found in Thymus vulgaris, thymol helps with chills due to its potent antimicrobial properties that aid in reducing fever and relieving body aches.
- Carvacrol: A phenolic monoterpene, carvacrol helps with chills by acting as an antipyretic, which means it helps to lower body temperature, thus reducing the sensation of chills.
- Caryophyllene oxide: A sesquiterpenoid compound, caryophyllene oxide helps with chills by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and discomfort caused by chills, making it easier to manage the condition.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make decoctions for chills.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of thymol, a compound with antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.
- Stems: The stems of Thymus vulgaris are used for their ability to warm the body and relieve chills, with their aromatic properties stimulating circulation.
- Roots: The roots are used for their ability to relieve colds and chills, with their warm and stimulating properties helping to restore body heat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for chills.
- Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a warm dry place or using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Measure 1 teaspoon of dried thymus vulgaris leaves and place them in a heat-resistant glass cup.
- Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over the dried leaves and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids to obtain the decoction.
8. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary decoctions helps with chills because of its natural antiviral and antibacterial properties, which can help to combat underlying infections that may be causing the chill.
The decongestant properties in rosemary also help to clear nasal passages and sinuses, allowing for easier breathing and a sense of relief from congestion.
Additionally, rosemary's warming effects can help to stimulate circulation and raise body temperature, making it an effective natural remedy for combating chills and promoting overall wellness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with chills.
- Carnosic acid: Carnosic acid, a phenolic diterpene, helps reduce chills by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate fever-related discomfort.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic compound, assists in combating chills by acting as an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent, which may help alleviate the underlying infection or inflammation causing the chills.
- Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate, a monoterpenoid ester, contributes to reducing chills by exhibiting antispasmodic and analgesic properties, which may help alleviate fever-related pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for chills.
- Leaves: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce fever and alleviate cold symptoms.
- Stems: Used for their antiseptic properties to help combat infections and reduce inflammation associated with chills.
- Flowers: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce fever and alleviate cold symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for chills.
- Harvest 25g of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves or 50g of fresh leaves for decoction.
- Combine harvested rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 500ml of cold water in a heat-resistant container.
- Boil the mixture over medium heat for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Steep the decoction for 10-15 minutes after boiling to allow flavors and oils to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
9. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm decoctions helps with chills because of its natural warming properties, which can help to increase body temperature.
The herb contains compounds that stimulate blood flow and dilate blood vessels, allowing for a greater supply of warm blood to reach the extremities and core of the body. Additionally, lemon balm has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce fever and alleviate symptoms such as shivering and sweating.
By promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system, lemon balm decoctions can also help to reduce feelings of cold and discomfort associated with chills.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with chills.
- Rosmarinicine: This compound helps to reduce fever and alleviate chills due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Melissic acid: This compound contributes to the antimicrobial properties of Melissa officinalis, helping to combat underlying infections that may be causing chills.
- Luteolin: This compound possesses anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties, which can help to reduce fever and alleviate chills.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for chills.
- Leaves: Used for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate chills and fever.
- Flowers: Used for their calming and antiseptic effects to help reduce fever and soothe the body.
- Stems: Used for their expectorant properties to help relieve respiratory issues often associated with chills.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for chills.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of melissa officinalis leaves and flowers from a clean and dry environment.
- Chop the harvested melissa officinalis into small pieces to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped melissa officinalis with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the melissa officinalis to release its properties.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
10. Sambucus nigra
Elder decoctions helps with chills because they contain compounds that have a warming effect on the body.
The saponins and flavonoids in elderflowers, for example, increase blood flow to the skin's surface, helping to raise body temperature and reduce shivering. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of elderberry help to alleviate cold-related discomforts such as headaches and fatigue.
As a result, drinking an elder decoction can provide quick relief from chills and help to restore warmth and comfort to the body.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with chills.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate chills by modulating the immune system and exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to relieving symptoms associated with chills and fever.
- Sambunigrin: Sambunigrin acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and helps to reduce the severity of chills by soothing the body and alleviating discomfort associated with fever.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds possess antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress and contribute to reducing the body's temperature, thus alleviating chills and fever.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for chills.
- Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are used to make decoctions for chills because they contain antiviral and antibacterial properties that help alleviate symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Sambucus nigra are used to make decoctions for chills because they have antipyretic properties that help reduce fever.
- Leaves: The leaves of Sambucus nigra are used to make decoctions for chills because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate cold symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for chills.
- Gather 60-120 grams of sambucus nigra branches and leaves for a standard decoction.
- Crush the plant material into smaller pieces using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the crushed plant material with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for chills?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with chills is a blend of ginger, cinnamon, and peppermint.
Ginger's warming properties and anti-inflammatory compounds help to soothe the body and reduce fever. Cinnamon's antimicrobial properties fight off underlying infections, while peppermint's cooling and decongestant properties help to relieve congestion and promote sweating, which is essential for flushing out toxins and breaking the fever cycle.
This combination can be made into a tea or decoction to provide quick relief from chills.
What ailments similar to chills are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to chills/decoctions.html">chills/decoctions.html">chills that are treated with herbal decoctions are fever, rheumatism, arthritis, and flu.
Decoctions made from herbs like ginger, cinnamon, peppermint, and eucalyptus help alleviate symptoms such as body aches, joint pain, and congestion by reducing inflammation and promoting sweating.
These herbal remedies can also help to restore the body's natural temperature and ease discomfort associated with these conditions.