How many of you have you have been woken up by a screaming, inconsolable toddler only to find out they’ve come down with something? Many mom’s first reaction is to reach for the Tylenol/Motrin combo as a quick fever reducer. I know I’ve been guilty of this. It’s not my favorite treatment but it does work. Because no matter what, we all want happy, healthy, comfortable children.
After one of these long, sleepless nights we were informed of an old family remedy that works wonders.
All you need for this is a lukewarm bath and some apple cider vinegar. I admit I was skeptical at first, but after trying it I knew this would be my new go to treatment.
This is not meant to replace professional medical advice. If you’re concerned about your toddler’s health, call your medical provider immediately.
When to seek medical attention
The general consensus from the web/our own doctor
Younger than 3 months with a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
3 to 6 months with a fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher
6 to 24 months with a fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher that lasts more than 1 day
Does the water have to be lukewarm?
The last thing you want to do to a fever is cook it.
Our goal here is to lower the body’s internal temperature. To do this avoid hot baths and showers.
You also do not want to use cold water for your bath. I know this might make sense to do but it does more harm then good. This can cause excessive shivering which leads to increased core temperature. Defeating the purpose of the uncomfortable cold bath.
Stick with a lukewarm temperature to avoid this. If you notice your child shivering warm up the water a little bit.
I tried this fever reducer and it didn’t work, now what?
I’ve had luck breaking fevers with only one bath and other times it’s takes 2 or 3 to have an effect. Give your toddler as many baths as they will tolerate. You can also mix this remedy with the traditional over the counter method for an even quicker fever reducer.
Does it matter what kind of ACV I use?
I only buy the organic apple cider vinegar: raw-unfiltered with “the mother”
This is the purest formula of ACV you can buy, it hasn’t been refined or filtered and contains all the beneficial bacteria.
I have no experience with brands that do not contain “the mother” so I cannot say if they work the same or not. I recommend buying the unrefined, unfiltered one.
Steps:
- Draw a lukewarm bath for your little one. Depending on how high you fill the tub add 1/4 to 1/2 Cup apple cider vinegar.
- Let them soak and try to keep them occupied in there until the water cools. Keep it warm enough to avoid giving your child the chills.
- Repeat as necessary until the fever has broken.
If you’re looking for an all-natural way to break your toddler’s fever, give this home remedy a try.