Can bathing a toddler in mugwort water reduce fever?
Nov 15, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Mugwort is a type of traditional Chinese medicinal herb known for its effects in warming the meridians, stopping bleeding, dispelling cold, relieving pain, eliminating dampness, and relieving itching. Fever in young children may result from exposure to cold. In cases of low-grade fever, mugwort bath is sometimes used to help dispel cold and dampness. However, since young children's temperature regulation mechanisms are not yet fully developed, using a mugwort bath may lead to hypothermia; therefore, it is not recommended.
Fever reduction refers to lowering body temperature. Under normal circumstances, mugwort bathing may assist in reducing fever; however, if the fever is severe, the effectiveness of mugwort bathing may be limited. The analysis is as follows:
Mugwort is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb known for its effects of warming the meridians and stopping bleeding, dispelling cold and relieving pain, and eliminating dampness and itching. In young children, fever may result from catching a chill. In cases of mild fever, mugwort baths can generally be used to help dispel cold and dampness, thereby improving fever symptoms and promoting recovery.
When a child has a high fever or accompanying symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or rash, this could be a sign of a serious illness. In such cases, immediate medical attention should be sought rather than attempting home remedies. Children's thermoregulatory systems are not yet fully developed, and using mugwort baths may lead to hypothermia or other adverse reactions; therefore, it is not recommended.
Prior to using a mugwort bath, ensure the mugwort is clean to avoid risk of infection, and maintain the water temperature at a moderate level to prevent scalding.
