How to Make an Herbal Fever Ease Syrup

You may have heard that there’s a nationwide shortage of children’s acetaminophen and ibuprofen—critical fever reducers for children with respiratory viruses! While there’s no replacement for these medications when fevers are dangerously high, there are a few herbal allies that can help to gently encourage the resolution of a fever (and even help with the pain and crankiness associated with a fever), when fevers are in a safe range. 

This herbal syrup contains herbal fever reducers that are safe for most children. While taking this syrup as-is can be effective, these herbs work best when taken hot, so the best way to take a dose is by stirring it into some hot water or any other hot beverage. These herbs can also be combined into a tea—just use 1 tablespoon of the herb mixture per 8-10 fl oz hot water and steep, covered, for 15-20 minutes before straining.

Because this syrup contains honey, it should not be given to children under 1 year of age.

Safety Note:
This is a theoretical concern due to the fact that meadowsweet contains salicin. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is linked to Reye’s Syndrome, a rare, but dangerous condition. Herbs, unlike pharmaceuticals, are a full spectrum preparation. The salicylate content is significantly lower in salicylate-containing herbs than in aspirin per standard dose. If you have concerns about using meadowsweet in this recipe for children, you could substitute in elderflower or just leave meadowsweet out entirely.

In Closing,

Although fevers are a normal, healthy immune response, they can sometimes cause dread or anxiety, particularly in young children. The herbal fever reducers in this syrup are a gentle, natural way to help the body cool down.