Initially, body temperature rises due to an imbalance between heat production and loss. This is a secondary effect as the body’s hypothalamus, the region of the brain that acts as a thermostat, resets to a higher level. The hypothalamus regulates temperature by adjusting mechanisms like vasodilation and perspiration. When it detects pyrogens, which are substances typically produced by infections or inflammation, it triggers this reset to help the immune system work more efficiently.
Ayurveda, fever is referred to as Jvara (ज्वर) and is considered one of the most important and primary diseases described in the ancient texts. Key Ayurvedic texts, such as the Charaka Samhita, elaborate extensively on the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods for Jvara, emphasizing its historical significance in traditional medicine.
Causes of fever
According to Ayurveda:
1. Disturbance in the agni prakriti: Agni prakriti refers to the inherent nature or quality of digestive fire in an individual. It plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health by regulating digestion and metabolism. A disturbance in the agni prakriti can be caused by factors such as changes in weather and dietary habits.
2. Disturbance in the balance of vata, pitta, kapha dosha.
3. Exogenous factors such as injury, infection, and stress etc.
According to Naturopathy :
1. Acute fever: The immune response to a toxin. It is a primary defense mechanism that helps the body protect itself.
2. Chronic fever : A prolonged accumulation of the toxin phase resulted in a catastrophic phase, causing the distruction of normal tissues in the body.
Fever management
Management of fever is very easy and simple to follow. The fevered body is seeking rest, not only physical but also mental, as well as metabolic rest. To achieve this holistic rest, consider engaging in practices such as meditation to calm the mind, pranayama for controlled breathing, and establishing a regular sleep routine to ensure sufficient rest. Additionally, gentle activities like yoga or stretching can help in achieving relaxation.
Dietary advice:
- Eat light and satvik food.
2. Drink water and soothing juices, and soups.
3. Rice water is good to counter heat.
4. Intermittent or juice fasting is advised.
5. Eat khicadi, fruiet salad, and green boiled vegetabel to support the immune system.
6. Avoid heavy, spices, oily, non-veg food items.
For practical and memorable fever management, there are several home remedies from Naturopathy and Ayurveda that can be considered.
1. Herbal teas, such as ginger or tulsi tea, can help soothe the fever symptoms.
2. Applying cold compresses can aid in alleviating body aches.
3. Consuming a decoction made from the bark of cinnamon, and adding honey and a touch of lemon, can also support the immune response.
4. Remedies include taking a turmeric-ginger milk mix at night for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
5. Take a proper rest and sound sleep.
6. A mud bath is advised under expert guidance.
7. Swedan under expert observation.