When You Have a Fever

When You Have a Fever

Atractylodes Lancea (Changchul)

Atractylodes lancea is known for its ability to dry dampness and expel external pathogens. In traditional medicine, it is used to alleviate fever accompanied by digestive discomfort, fatigue, and body heaviness. It helps strengthen the spleen and improve energy flow.

● Usage:

Decoct 8–10 grams of dried Atractylodes with other herbs or alone. Drink the warm decoction twice daily.

Balloon Flower Root (Gilgyeong)

Platycodon grandiflorus, or balloon flower root, is widely used to relieve sore throat and expel phlegm. When fever is accompanied by coughing or upper respiratory inflammation, balloon flower root helps open up the lungs and reduce heat.

● Usage:

Boil 6–9 grams of the root in water for about 30 minutes. Drink warm, especially when the throat feels inflamed.

Bupleurum Root (Sihou)

Bupleurum is a crucial herb for treating fever with alternating chills and heat. It harmonizes internal organs, particularly the liver, and is used for febrile diseases or flu-like symptoms in the early stages. It also helps relieve irritability and tightness in the chest.

● Usage:

Decoct 5–10 grams with other harmonizing herbs such as Scutellaria or ginseng depending on symptoms.

Honeysuckle Flower (Geumeunhwa)

Honeysuckle flower is excellent for clearing heat and resolving toxicities. It's widely used to reduce fever, soothe sore throat, and treat boils or skin inflammation caused by internal heat. It is gentle and often used in pediatric or mild infections.

● Usage:

Use 10–15 grams of dried flowers to make tea. Drink 2–3 times daily for acute symptoms.

Japanese Honeysuckle Vine (Indongdeonggul)

The vine part of honeysuckle shares many of the same detoxifying and fever-relieving properties as the flower, though it is slightly more cooling and draining. It's used when symptoms are more intense or involve deeper inflammation.

● Usage:

Boil 15–20 grams of the dried vine in water for about 40 minutes. Drink while warm.

Dandelion (Pogongyeong)

Dandelion is a powerful detoxifying herb that clears internal heat and supports liver health. It is especially useful when fever is associated with redness, swelling, or urinary inflammation. It also promotes urination and helps cool the blood.

● Usage:

Use 10–20 grams of dried leaves or roots. Boil for 20–30 minutes and drink twice daily.

Ophiopogon Root (Maekmundong)

Ophiopogon is a moistening herb that nourishes the lungs and stomach while gent