See a doctor if: A very hot, floppy or drowsy baby, high fever, rash that turns to pustules/boils or weeps (infection), rash that does not fade under gentle pressure with fever, or signs of heat exhaustion - urgent medical care
Kitchen remedies
Cool the child down and keep skin dry: light loose cotton clothing, a cool (not cold) bath and pat dry, fans/airy shade, avoid over-wrapping; a cool coriander or sandalwood paste dabbed on; plain cornstarch or khus powder in folds; frequent fluids/breast milk; keep the room cool and ventilated
Featured herbs
How to prepare
Cautions
Gentle cooling only. Avoid thick creams, oils and heavy powders that block pores and trap heat, and avoid over-clothing. Keep any herbal wash very dilute for babies and patch-test first. A baby who is hot must be cooled and given fluids.
Related remedies
Colic & Gas in Infants (traditional, cautious)Teething Discomfort in Babies (traditional, cautious)Bedwetting in Children (supportive)Diaper Rash (babies, gentle)Cradle Cap (infant scalp, gentle)Whooping Cough (children, supportive)Mumps (children, supportive)Fever in Children (supportive care, referral)
When to see a doctor. Home remedies are for minor, self-limiting complaints in adults. They are not a substitute for medical care, and herbs can interact with medicines. Not for children under the ages stated, in pregnancy, or with chronic conditions without a doctor's advice.
