Natural Comfort Measures for Fevers
- Jul 30, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 28
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A fever is a natural response to an infection or illness. It is a good sign, because it means that your body is fighting off the infection. The increased body temperature from a fever boosts the performance of immune cells and induces stress on pathogens and infected cells, providing a strong immune defense.
Since fevers are the body’s natural way of fighting off illnesses, reducing a fever can actually prolong the illness or infection. Fevers also trigger immune cells to recruit and activate T-cells, which coordinate long-term “adaptive” immune responses such as antibody production. By letting a fever run its course, you are also providing better protection for future illnesses.
So, how can you comfort a fever naturally?
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil can be used as a fever suppressant. Dilute 1-2 drops with 1/2-1 tsp coconut oil and apply to soles of feet and spine. It can also be used for headaches. Apply directly to temples, forehead, behind ears, back of neck whenever you have a headache (if using on child dilute; or if adult has sensitive skin).
Always use your discretion, and consult with your trusted provider before using oils. The age of use when it comes to essential oils is very divided, even amongst trusted medical establishments. John Hopkins Medical does not recommend the use of peppermint oil under 30 months, and CHOP does not recommend any essential oils under the age of 3. Whereas our pediatrician is comfortable with it at almost any age, as long as its properly diluted.
Wet Sock Trick
Cold wet socks work with the body’s natural circulation and temperature regulation during a fever. When cold, damp socks are placed on warm feet and covered with thick dry socks, the body initially responds to the cold by briefly constricting blood vessels in the feet. Within minutes, the body shifts into a warming response and sends more blood to the area to maintain temperature balance. This results in vasodilation, or widening of the blood vessels, which increases circulation to the feet and can stimulate overall circulation throughout the body. During a fever, the body is already raising its core temperature to support immune activity and create a less favorable environment for pathogens.
The cold sock stimulus encourages gentle circulation, supports temperature regulation without suppressing the fever, and promotes relaxation and sleep (all of which can support the body’s natural immune processes).
The socks typically warm and dry as circulation increases, which is seen as a sign that the body’s thermoregulation is responding.
Dip cotton socks in ice water and wring them out. They shouldn’t be soaked and dripping.
Put the damp socks on and cover with a pair of thick wool socks.
The cotton sock will most likely be dry in about 30 minutes
This cycle should continue throughout the night (or day) as needed and helps boost the immune system and reduce body temperature.
Magnesium Chloride Bath
Give a LUKEWARM (not hot or cold!!!) bath with magnesium chloride flakes. This is great to do before nap/bed, followed by the wet sock trick, and snuggles.
Fever can increase metabolic demand and tension in the body, and magnesium plays a key role in muscle relaxation/temperature regulation/immune function. Soaking in a lukewarm magnesium bath may help ease body aches, promote sweating, and encourage a more relaxed parasympathetic state, which can make fevers feel more manageable and support the body’s natural healing process.
Raw Potatoes in Socks
The theory behind placing potatoes in socks for fevers comes from traditional and folk medicine, where they are believed to have the ability to "draw out toxins" or "pull heat" from the body.
This practice is often rooted in the idea that the soles of the feet are connected to various organs and systems, as suggested by reflexology and some forms of traditional Chinese medicine.
Placing raw potato slices on the feet is a traditional remedy believed to help draw out heat and support circulation, which may provide comfort during fevers or respiratory illness. To use, slice a raw potato, place the slices on the soles of the feet, cover with cotton socks, and leave on for 30–60 minutes or during sleep.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy works best when you match specific symptoms. I like to search the National Center for Homeopathy Remedy Finder. But these are some common considerations for fever:
Aconite (aconitum napellus):
High fevers that come on suddenly, with hot and dry skin.
Child may be anxious, restless, and fearful
Often the very first stage of illness
Belladona: generally considered the top homeopathic remedy for high fevers
High fevers that come on suddenly with profuse sweating and hypersensitivity to light and noise.
Throbbing headaches, sensitive to light and noise
Skin hot, but hands and feet may be cold
Fevers with restlessness; a child who continuously moves to find a comfortable position
Milder, slow rising fevers
Vague symptoms
Great place to start is unsure what to give
Slower on-set fever
Body may be week
Heavy, droopy eyelids
Dull, tired, just wants to lie still
Chills up spine
Not thirsty
Herbal Support
Dr. Green Mom's Natureprofen (Infants-Kids) ALEXKELLY gives 10%
Dr. Green Mom's Temper Tamer (Infants-Kids) ALEXKELLY gives 10%
Earthley Feel Better Fast (6mo+) ALEXK10 for 10%
Rowe Casa's Children's Relief ALEX20 gives 20%
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