Essential oils can be a complementary tool in relieving some symptoms associated with fever, such as general malaise, headaches or muscle aches. However, it is important to keep in mind that essential oils do not replace medical treatment in cases of fever and, in the event of a high or persistent fever, it is always necessary to consult a health professional. That said, some essential oils have properties that can provide relief or a cooling sensation, which is helpful in cases of mild fever.
Essential Oils to Relieve Fever
Peppermint Essential Oil (Mentha piperita)
- Properties: Refreshing, analgesic and anti-inflammatory.
- Benefits: Its menthol content provides a sensation of freshness that can help reduce the perception of heat in the body. It is useful for relieving headaches or discomfort associated with fever.
- Use: Mix a few drops of peppermint oil into a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) and apply gently to your forehead, neck, and soles of your feet. Avoid the eye area, as menthol can cause irritation.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil (Eucalyptus globulus)
- Properties: Antiseptic, decongestant and refreshing.
- Benefits: Eucalyptus helps clear the respiratory tract, which can be beneficial in cases of cold or flu accompanied by fever. It also provides a cooling sensation and helps relieve nasal congestion.
- Use: Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam, covering your head with a towel. Alternatively, dilute it in a carrier oil and rub it on your chest and back.
Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)
- Properties: Relaxing, analgesic and calming.
- Benefits: Lavender helps reduce discomfort, pain and tension, and promotes relaxation. It can contribute to better rest, which is beneficial in case of fever.
- Use: Dilute it in a carrier oil and apply it to the temples and neck or add it to a diffuser to inhale its relaxing vapors.
Lemon Essential Oil (Citrus limon)
- Properties: Refreshing, antimicrobial and immune system stimulant.
- Benefits: Lemon essential oil is known to stimulate the immune system, which can be helpful in viral infections. Its fresh aroma is also energizing and can relieve feelings of tiredness.
- Use: Add to a diffuser for inhalation or dilute in a carrier oil and massage into the soles of your feet or wrists. Avoid sun exposure after applying it to your skin, as it is photosensitive.
Ginger Essential Oil (Zingiber officinale)
- Properties: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and stimulant.
- Benefits: Ginger is known to relieve muscle and joint pain, which can be useful if the fever is accompanied by discomfort in the body. It also helps stimulate circulation.
- Use: Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil and massage the body, especially areas where you feel muscle pain or tension.
How to Use Essential Oils to Relieve Fever Symptoms
Cold Compresses: Fill a container with cold water and add a few drops of mint or eucalyptus essential oil. Dip a towel in the water, wring it out, and place it on your forehead or the back of your neck to provide coolness and relief.
Steam Inhalation: If the fever is related to a cold or congestion, inhaling steam with oils such as eucalyptus or lavender can help clear the airways. Add a few drops to a bowl of hot water and cover your head with a towel to inhale the steam for a few minutes.
Body Massage: Dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil (such as almond or coconut oil) and massage on the soles of the feet, chest or back to relieve general discomfort.
Aromatherapy Diffuser: Add a few drops of oils such as lavender, eucalyptus or lemon to a diffuser to fill the environment with aromas that help relax, calm discomfort and promote sleep.
Important Precautions
Dilution: Never apply essential oils directly to the skin, especially in people with fever or children, as they can irritate the skin. Always dilute in a carrier oil.
Children and Babies: Some essential oils, such as peppermint and eucalyptus, may be too strong for young children. Consult a health professional before using essential oils on children under 2 years of age.
Medical Consultation: If the fever is high, prolonged, or accompanied by other serious symptoms, see a health professional instead of relying solely on essential oils.
Photosensitive Oils: Some citrus oils (such as lemon) are photosensitive and can cause spots on the skin if exposed to the sun after application.
Conclusion
Essential oils can be a useful supplement to reduce the discomfort of fever-related symptoms, especially by providing a cooling sensation and helping with relaxation and relief of minor pain. However, they should be used with caution and do not replace medical treatment in cases of severe or persistent fever.
