Every parent knows how miserable and uncomfortable little ones can get when they have a fever. These lovely herbs bring relief without medicating the child. My boy is in no mood to take medicine when he is feeling hot and miserable. But a bath with these herbs has time and time again been just the trick - he's cooled down, settled into a deep sleep and woken up much better.

These herbs are known traditionally to help with feverish conditions in young children, by supporting the body's natural mechanisms for fighting infection. We know that fever is a normal response of the immune system and a sign that the body is doing its job in fighting off infection. If an infection has not been sufficiently handled by the white blood cells, chemicals signal the body to raise the temperature. Fever creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria and viruses.

These herbs have "diaphoretic" properties which mean they help the body's thermoregulation by inducing sweating. They help to reduce fever and chills, relax the body and calm the child down. They help relieve pain and promote a healing sleep.

Young children have comparatively more surface area than adults, which means a herbal bath is suitable way to provide herbal support, via the pores of their skin. I find such herbal baths so effective in calming and comforting children when they are unwell.

These herbs can also be used to make a herbal tea to drink, for older children and adults. A natural sweetener like Manuka honey can be added to the tea, along with twist of lemon or a dash of apple juice. Note: do not give honey to a child under the age of 12 months of age. This particular blend is not suitable for use during pregnancy.

The herbs are 100% Australia Certified Organic and come packaged in post-consumer, re-cycled packaging that is fully compostable once the tin tie is removed. Stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, the herbs will keep for about 12 months.

Many parents will appreciate a natural, gentle way to support their young ones through the occasional fevers that are part of a child's growing immune system. However, fever can be a sign of a serious illness, so if fever and other signs of unwellness persist, do not delay in having your child checked by your health care provider.

The Soothe a Fever herbs contain:

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)  - a calming, soothing herb with anti-biotic properties

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) - has analgesic and anti-pyretic properties

Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale) - has anti-viral properties and helps reduce fever

Limeblossom (Tilia spp) - an excellent remedy for fevers, especially in children. Has diaphoretic properties and is also considered to help calm restless children

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)- a diaphoretic herb which is helpful for reducing fever

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) - a cooling herb traditionally used to manage fever in children

Vervain (Verbena officinalis) - a diaphoretic herb that helps control fever by inducing sweating and has a calming effect

Chickweed - a refrigerant herbs with cooling properties, promotes sweating and cools fever.

How to use the Soothe a Fever herbs:
Fill the muslin drawstring bag provided with approximately 25g of the loose herbs (a good handful). Place the sachet in a non-metal jug or bowl. Pour on hot water and cover. Let steep for at least 10 minutes. Now the contents of the jug or bowl, muslin sachet and all, can be added to the child's bath. I usually make the water temperature a little more tepid than usual. Let the child remain in the bath for as long as they are happy to do so. This is usually very soothing for a young child. You can even get in the bath along with your little one, if they are being a "velcro" baby and need to be held.
When cooling down a feverish child, avoid shivering, because tht can raise the core temperature.

The wet herbal sachet can be hung on the tap to be used one more time. Discard after 24 hours.

Disclaimer: This information is based on empirical and traditional herbal medicine. It is of a general informational nature and does not constitute medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any health condition. Any health condition should be referred to your chosen health care practitioner. Check with your health care practitioner before commencing to use any herbal product, and be aware of any personal and family allergies.