What really happens when we get a FEVER ?

‘Fever’ is also known as pyrexia, hyperthermia and high temperature. Fever is nothing but higher than the normal body temperature.

It is a sign that our body shows due to any internal or external cause.

It overheats the body due to an increase in the body temperature set point. Fever is a symptom which fights the illness of our body.

The Hypothalamus within the brain controls our body temperature. In response to an infection, illness, or some other causes, the hypothalamus may reset the body temperature to higher.

Core temperature elevated due to re-setting the thermoregulatory set point in the hypothalamus. Due to the failure of the thermoregulatory mechanism body produces or absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. Fever affects both children and adults. Mainly it is a symptom of other diseases.

Ayurvedic Management of Fever

In Ayurveda, fever (Jwara) is seen as a significant disturbance in the body’s balance, requiring a holistic approach to restore health. Ayurvedic management of fever involves balancing the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), detoxifying the body, and enhancing the digestive fire (Agni). Here are the key strategies used in Ayurveda to manage fever:

1. Identifying the Type of Fever

Ayurveda classifies fever based on the predominant dosha involved:

• Vata-type : Characterized by chills, body aches, restlessness, and dry skin.
• Pitta-type : Marked by high temperature, sweating, thirst, irritability, and a burning sensation.
• Kapha-type : Features mild fever, heaviness, lethargy, mucus production, and loss of appetite.

2. Diet and Nutrition

Diet plays a crucial role in managing fever in Ayurveda. The focus is on supporting digestion and eliminating toxins.

Light and Warm Foods: Consume easily digestible foods such as:

• Rice
• Moong dal (split mung beans)
• Vegetable soups

Herbal Teas: Drink infusions made from ginger, tulsi (holy basil), and turmeric to aid digestion and reduce fever.

Avoid Heavy Foods: Steer clear of dairy, fried foods, and processed items that can burden digestion.

3. Herbal Remedies

Ayurveda employs various herbs to manage fever by boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and detoxifying the body.

• Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Known for its immunomodulatory and antipyretic properties.
• Tulsi (Holy Basil): Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Neem (Azadirachta indica): Purifies the blood and combats infections.
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Promotes digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Coriander Seeds: Boil coriander seeds in water to make a cooling tea that helps reduce this.

4. Panchakarma Therapy

Panchakarma is a detoxification therapy that helps remove toxins (Ama) and restore doshic balance.

• Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): Helps eliminate excess Pitta and toxins.
• Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis): Used to expel Kapha-related toxins.
• Nasya (Nasal Administration): Administering medicated oils through the nose to clear the channels.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments

Certain lifestyle practices support the body in managing and recovering from this.

• Rest: Ensure adequate rest to allow the body to focus on healing.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of warm water and herbal teas to stay hydrated and flush out toxins.
• Warm Baths: Taking a warm bath can help in reducing fever and soothing the body.
• Proper Ventilation: Keep the living environment well-ventilated to avoid the buildup of pathogens.

6. External Therapies

External therapies in Ayurveda help in balancing the doshas and providing relief from  symptoms.

• Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Gentle massage with medicated oils helps soothe the body and balance Vata dosha.
• Svedana (Herbal Steam): Herbal steam therapy opens up the channels and helps eliminate toxins.

7. Ayurvedic Formulations

Ayurvedic practitioners often prescribe specific formulations to manage fever, such as:

• Sudarshana Churna: A classical formulation used for various types of fever.
• Tribhuvan Kirti Rasa: Effective in reducing fever and alleviating associated symptoms.
• Maha Sudarshana Vati: Known for its antipyretic and immune-boosting properties.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While Ayurvedic treatments are effective for managing mild to moderate fever, it is essential to seek medical attention in certain situations:

• High Fever: Persistent fever above 103°F (39.4°C).
• Prolonged Fever: Fever lasting more than three days without improvement.
• Severe Symptoms: Difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or other severe symptoms.

Conclusion

Ayurvedic management of fever involves a comprehensive approach that includes dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, detoxification therapies, and lifestyle modifications. By addressing the underlying imbalances and supporting the body’s natural healing processes, Ayurveda offers a holistic and effective way to manage fever and promote overall health.