Acupressure for Fever - A Drug Free Approach to Reduce High Body Temperature

How Acupressure Works to Reduce Fevers

According to traditional Chinese medicine, fevers occur when there is imbalance in the body and blockages interrupt the flow of vital energy or Qi (pronounced chee). Acupressure helps restore balance and enhance functioning by applying pressure to specific points along the bodys meridians or energy pathways. This stimulation boosts blood circulation and endorphins, while alleviating any obstructions. The improved circulation and anti-inflammatory effects can lower elevated body temperature and regulate bodily systems and homeostasis.

The techniques used involve applying firm, steady pressure with thumbs or fingers to designated acupoints. Gentle rotating motions may also be incorporated. Points used for relieving fever target areas that can relax muscles, stimulate sweat production and reduce heat, swelling and congestion in the chest or head. Relief is often experienced immediately, although repeat treatments may be required for more stubborn fevers or illness.

Main Acupressure Points for Treating Fevers

Some of the most common acupressure points used to reduce fevers include:

• Fengchi (GB 20) - located in the hollow areas below the base of the skull. This point addresses headaches, neck tension, and congestion.
• Hegu (LI 4) - located in the webbing between the thumb and index finger. Stimulating this point activates immunity and drainage in the upper body.
• Quchi (LI 11) - situated at outer end of the elbow crease. Works to relieve fever and heat by clearing the meridians.
• Neiguan (PC 6) - located above the wrist. Helps calm nausea and vomiting that may accompany fever.
• Lieque (LU 7) - found on outside of forearm near wrist. Assists in alleviating chills, sweating, and stuffy nose.
• Dazhu (UB 11) - located beside the lower spine. Addresses fever, inflammation and supports immunity.

Gently massaging these critical points in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes can stimulate the lymphatic system, blood vessels, nerves and immunity for reducing elevated body temperatures. Drink plenty of water to assist the body in flushing out toxins and waste. Repeat sessions every 2-4 hours or as needed for fever relief.

Acupressure Protocol for Fever Reduction

Follow this step-by-step acupressure routine at the first signs of fever or illness for gentle, natural relief:

1. Wash hands thoroughly and rest in a comfortable position. Loose clothing allows better access to acupoints.
2. Locate the Fengchi points in the hollow area at the base of the skull. Apply steady firm pressure with fingertips for 1 minute on each side. Breathe deeply.
3. Find the Hegu point in the webbing between thumb and index finger. Press and rub both hands for 1 minute. Repeat 2-3 times.
4. On the inside of both forearms, stimulate the Neiguan point above the wrist crease. Massage for 30 seconds.
5. Move down to the Lieque points on the outside of the forearms near wrists. Rub for 1 minute total.
6. Along the lower back, apply pressure to the Dazhu points beside the spine for 1 minute on each side.
7. Stimulate each acupoint on both sides of the body for the recommended duration. Repeat routine every 2-4 hours as needed.

Drink warm liquids to help flush out illness and toxins after treatment. Get adequate rest between sessions. Seek medical care if fever persists for more than 24-48 hours, rises sharply or is accompanied by worrying symptoms like extreme chills or disorientation. Acupressure can be used safely alongside any other fever-reducing measures recommended by a healthcare professional.

Tips for Maximizing Acupressure Results

Follow these tips to get the most out of acupressure treatment for fever and illness:

• Remain hydrated by drinking warm water, herbal teas, or broths. This supports the detoxifying effects.
• Apply firm but gentle pressure only. Acupoints should not be painfully uncomfortable.
• Use thumbs, knuckles or fingertips instead of fingernails to avoid causing injury.
• Focus on deep rhythmic breathing during treatment to boost relaxation.
• Rest quietly after acupressure sessions to aid the body's healing response.
• Engage in repeat treatments as needed. Effects are cumulative over time.

Other Natural Remedies to Reduce Fever

While acupressure offers a drug-free way to relieve fever discomforts, there are some additional natural remedies that can be used alongside for amplified effects:

Stay Cool

Help lower body temperature and fevers by staying in a cool room, applying a damp cloth to the forehead, taking tepid baths or showers, resting with an ice pack under armpits or neck, and avoiding getting overheated.

Herbal Teas

Sipping cooling herbal teas with ingredients like peppermint, ginger, licorice root, elderberry or catnip can help with fever reduction, soothing chills, addressing dehydration and promoting sweating. Avoid caffeinated teas.

Essential Oils

Rubbing diluted essential oils like peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus or tea tree oil on the neck, temples, chest and bottoms of feet provides anti-inflammatory, fever-lowering, antiviral effects. Avoid with young children.

Healthy Diet

Eat easy-to-digest foods and cold fruits and soups to nourish the body. Avoid inflammatory foods like sugar, fried foods, alcohol and processed ingredients while sick and feverish.

Use holistic remedies like acupressure and other natural techniques to foster the bodys innate healing abilities. Get medical attention for any persisting or worrying fever symptoms. With lifestyle and dietary adjustments, acupressure can also help strengthen immunity and prevent recurrent fevers or illness.

When to Seek Emergency Care for Fevers

While most low-grade fevers can be managed safely at home, immediately seek medical help if you or a loved one experience:

• A sudden high fever over 103 F (39.4 C)
• A fever in an infant 3 months or younger
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Confusion, disorientation or trouble waking
• Persistent vomiting, diarrhea or lack of urination
• Febrile seizures
• A fever lasting longer than 3 days without improvement
• Additional worrying symptoms or medical history

Do not hesitate to call emergency services or go to urgent care or the ER if any possibly life-threatening fever symptoms arise. Early intervention

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.