Is it okay to take a mugwort bath when having a fever?
In general, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Whether or not one can soak in mugwort water during a fever should be determined based on the cause of the fever and the individual's specific condition. If the fever is caused by cold pathogens entering the body, soaking in mugwort water is usually acceptable. However, if the fever is due to heat pathogens, it is not recommended. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is advised. Detailed explanations are as follows:
If the fever is caused by cold pathogens entering the body, accompanied by symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose, soaking in mugwort water (such as foot baths or full-body baths) may help alleviate symptoms. Mugwort has the effects of warming the meridians to dispel cold and promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis. When used for foot or full-body soaking, it can improve blood circulation and relieve muscle aches, thus helping to reduce fever.
However, if the fever is caused by heat pathogens entering the body, with accompanying symptoms such as coughing, yellow phlegm, sore throat, and headache, soaking in mugwort water is not recommended. The treatment principle for heat pathogens is to clear heat and detoxify. Using mugwort for foot baths or body soaks may exacerbate internal heat and be counterproductive to reducing fever.
It should be noted that pregnant women, children, and individuals with cardiovascular diseases should use mugwort cautiously, and those with allergies should avoid its use altogether. If any discomfort occurs after use, it is recommended to discontinue immediately and seek medical treatment.