Feverfew Herb

Feverfew herb, chrysanthemum parthenium, also known as featherfew and bachelor's buttons, is native to Eastern Europe in the area of the Balkan Mountains. Now grown throughout North America, South America, and Europe, this short bush is a traditional herb that shares a striking physical similarity with daisies, characterized by array of white petals that surround a bright yellow center.

Uses

Recently Feverfew has been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and migraine headaches. Because it has a stimulant effect on the uterus, as well as being a relaxant, it has been used to treat delayed periods, menstrual pain and PMS. It increases circulation during pregnancy, can relax a rigid cervix, and has been used to stabilize contractions during early labor.

For centuries herbal medicine has used Feverfew to treat asthma and psoriasis, as well as:

• fever
• menstruation
• infertility
• stomach aches
• toothaches
• nausea
• vomiting
• digestive bloating
• allergies
• menopause hot flashes

Applications

Feverfew is currently recommended in the treatment of the following:

• Migraine Headaches - containing a group of chemicals that constrict cranial blood vessels, the feverfew herb is efficient at preventing, as well as reducing pain associated with migraines.


• Arthritis - scientifically acknowledged, chronic inflammation and pain brought on by arthritis is soothed by feverfew after consumption.


• Insect Repellent - feverfew produces a sharp pungent smell that repels insects.

How to use Feverfew

Feverfew can be taken in a few different forms. The leaves can be boiled and infused into a tea or eaten fresh off the stem. The stem is also edible.

Consider creating your own insect repellent by chopping up a few feverfew leaves and wrapping them up in a small bundle, held together with a small net-like structure. Hang up the bundle(s) in your yard or around the outside of your house and the feverfew will drive pesky insects off your property in no time.

Precautions

When not used properly, feverfew has the potential to create as many problems as it can solve, and should only be used short-term. Overuse can prevent blood clotting and cause dangerous, excessive bleeding. Women who are pregnant or are breast-feeding should also refrain from using the feverfew.

Caution should be taken when eating the leaves, as they can cause sores in the mouth, swelling of the tongue and lips and impair one's sense of taste. Additional side-effects of the Feverfew herb include nausea, vomiting and allergies.

Return from Feverfew Herb back to Herbs Index

---