A fever occurs when there’s a rise in body temperature. Causes of fever can include flu, colds, viruses, or infections. A fever is a sign your body’s immune system is fighting to bring the body back to balance. Fevers usually resolve on their own, but if it rises to 103F (39.4C) or persists for more than a day, it’s time to seek medical attention. Your body is wise and intelligent. It knows what to do to heal and rebalance itself. You can support your body’s defenses by using essential oils (aromatherapy) to reduce fever naturally.

Essential Oils As A Natural Remedy

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that contain many active chemicals known to help the body heal. They offer many health benefits and can be used to treat flu symptoms and colds, coughs, sore throat, cold sores, sinus infections, earaches, bronchitis, and immune system support. If you want to bring your fever down, you’ll want to look for oils that are fever reducers and anti-inflammatories.

The Best Essential Oils for Fever

Peppermint oil (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint essential oil is a fever reducer, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and a pain reliever. Menthol, the active compound in peppermint oil, is a sore throat soother and cough silencer, which is why it’s included in so many cough drop formulas.

Eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus radiata)

Eucalyptus essential oil is a fever reducer, anti-inflammatory, pain reliever, antibacterial, antiviral, and antiseptic. It also stimulates the immune system to fight infections better.

Rosemary oil (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary is a potent immune booster, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiseptic. It helps support the immune system so it can fight infections and reduce fever.

Ginger oil (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger oil helps boost the immune system, fights inflammation, and reduces fever. It’s also a cough suppressant, antibacterial, antiseptic, and a pain reliever.

Lemon oil (Citrus limon)

Lemon oil is a fever reducer, decongestant, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal.

Frankincense oil (Boswellia carterii)

Frankincense essential oil is a powerful immune stimulant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antioxidant. Other EOs that can also help reduce infections and fever are:

Lavender oil Chamomile oil Tea tree oil (melaleuca) Cedarwood oil Bergamot oil

Safety Concerns

When used safely, EOs usually offer little to no side effects. When used topically as a natural aid to reduce fevers, EOs must always be diluted in a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation and reactions. (Especially if you have sensitive skin.) It’s advisable to perform a patch test on a non-affected area of the skin and wait 24 hours to confirm no allergic reaction. If you experience any adverse reaction to any oil, discontinue use immediately and consult your healthcare provider to seek medical advice. Some oils are not suitable for babies, young children, and pregnant or nursing women. Research the contraindications for each oil you use prior to applying them. EOs aren’t regulated by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration), so it’s essential to do your research before buying products to make sure they aren’t diluted or contaminated. Always choose high-quality, certified organic, and therapeutic grade products to make sure you’re experiencing the full medicinal benefits.

How To Use EOs for Fever

You can inhale EOs via a diffuser, or you can apply them topically. If you’re applying them directly to the skin, then dilute them in a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil. Stick to 2-3 drops of essential oil per 1 teaspoon of carrier oil.

DIY Essential Oil Blends:

Cold & Flu Diffuser Blend

Essential oil diffusers work by dispersing the active chemicals into the air. The following oils contain potent antiviral and antibacterial properties to help to purify the air around you. Mixture:

3 drops of Eucalyptus oil 3 drops of Rosemary oil 3 drops of Frankincense oil 2 drops of Lemon oil

Instructions:

Add to 200 ml of water in your diffuser.

Steam Inhalation Therapy: Cold Rescue Blend

This is for nasal congestion, sore throats, coughs, or any respiratory or lung issues. Mixture:

5 drops of Eucalyptus oil 5 drops of Rosemary oil 3 drops of Peppermint oil 2 drops of Lemon oil

Add boiling water to a bowl or pot and place a blanket over your head and inhale the vapors.