November 20, 2008
The herb Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) has always been seen as a medicinal herb. As the name implies, folk healers used it as a cure for fevers. Scientists have studied Feverfew, and, though it doesn't reduce fevers, it was found to be an antispasmodic. Spasms in small blood vessels, which are known to be a cause of migraine headaches, have been shown to be reduced by use of Feverfew. The chief active ingredient has been isolated, and might, someday, lead to a pure extract. Additional clinical studies have found that feverfew can stop vomiting and relieve nausea, while improving digestion. Other studies have reported:
- relief from asthma attacks
- promotion of restful sleep
- relief from the inflammation, and thus the pain, of arthritis.
In the 1980's, British researchers tested feverfew on migraine sufferers and found that 7 out of 10 people reported either fewer or less painful migraines. Some people reported that feverfew aided with depression as well. The leaves of the plant are usually consumed. The most frequent side effect is mouth ulcers, and use should be discontinued if this happens.
There are commercial tinctures of feverfew available, or it can be grown at home.
Feverfew is easily grown in the US and Europe, as it is a relative of the mint family. It grows as a tall (12-24" or more) bushy plant, which displays a large number of small white flowers, which will remind you of small daisies. Once planted, it will spread by self seeding and sending out runners. It emerges in the spring, and will continue to grow and bloom all summer if flowers are pinched back.
To use medicinally, consume 1 medium sized leaf each day. There are very few recipes for feverfew available. You may want to try putting it into a tossed salad, along with other fresh herbs. Another approach would be to sprinkle chopped feverfew leaves on top of marinara sauce. It could be made into pesto, using your favorite nuts.
In summary, the potential benefits of feverfew are many, and this important natural herbal remedy should not be neglected as a treatment for many common health problems. If more information about feverfew is desired, you may want to try using your favourite search engine on this term. There will be a wealth of information available on the internet.