Description
Botanical: Tanacetum parthenium (also known as Chrysanthemum parthenium)
Other common names: Bachelor's Buttons, Febrefuge Plant, Featherfew, Featherfoil, Flirtwort, Midsummer Daisy, Wild Chamomile
Suffering from migraines? Try a regimen of Feverfew to help prevent the pain and nausea associated with migraines. The herb has been used since ancient times to lower fever and treat nervous and menstrual disorders, depression and pain.
Country of Origin: United States.
Beneficial Uses:
A regimen of Feverfew has been found to be effective in preventing migraine headaches and/or reducing the nausea and vomiting associated with migraines. The parthenolide in Feverfew appears to block platelets and inhibit the production of serotonin, a brain chemical involved in the release of pain-causing chemicals. Ideally, when taken on a regular basis before the onset of pain, Feverfew may prevent or reduce the frequency of migraine headaches.
Feverfew, as a febrifuge, has been used to lower fever and "cool" the body since ancient times.
As an anti-inflammatory, Feverfew reduces the body's manufacture of prostaglandin, a chemical that produces inflammation. As such it is used to relieve the discomforts of colitis, psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Feverfew is a mild laxative, and it is also used to help relieve gas and bloating.
As a tonic, Feverfew is used to stimulate the appetite and promote good digestion.
Feverfew has a strong and lasting odor that is considered an insect repellent and has been used to purify the air around houses.
Feverfew is used as a mild sedative and antispasmodic that will help relieve muscle spasms. Herbalists have used it to treat hysteria, DTs, nervousness and low spirits.
For menstrual discomfort, Feverfew is thought to be an effective herbal pain reliever; and as an emmenagogue, it is used to promote the onset of the menstrual flow. It may also stimulate uterine contractions and, therefore, should not be used by pregnant women.
In preliminary tests, Feverfew has been shown to keep blood platelets from sticking together and forming clots, so it may be useful as an anticoagulant and to improve blood circulation.
Contraindications:
Those who are allergic to daisies/ragweed/sunflowers should avoid Feverfew Herbal Supplement. People taking blood thinners (Coumadin/aspirin, etc.) should not take Feverfew, nor should it be administered to children under five years. Pregnant and nursing women should not use Feverfew. Taking Feverfew with prescription pain relievers or ibuprofen may increase the chance of side effects including upset stomach, heartburn, dizziness and ringing in the ears. Minor side effects may include gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea and nervousness.
