Making the Most of the Feverfew Plant

The Feverfew plant is a little known plant with small daisy-like flowers. It has been used for generations in herbal medicines very effectively. This little plant is not only attractive in the garden, but is a very potent medicine.

History of This Plant

This plant, also known as Tanaceta parthenium or Chrysanthemum parthenium is a perennial herb that grows from 9 to 24 inches high. The greenery is deeply serrated and airy, and the plant blooms profusely with small white daisy-shaped blooms. This attractive plant will grow almost anywhere. It really isn't particular about soil or sun. It will reseed itself, and is considered a perennial in most planting zones. Leaves are the portion of the plant used for medicinal purposes. If you are growing the feverfew plant for medicinal use, you'll want to remove flowers to promote leaf growth. Other names that feverfew may be known as include featherfew, wild chamomile, bachelor's buttons (not to be confused with the blue Centaurea cyanis of the same common name), bride's button and featherfoil.

Benefits of Using Feverfew

This herb is a very effective remedy for headaches and migraines. Studies show that it may also lessen the frequency of headaches and migraines with regular usage. This plant has shown that it has anti-inflammatory properties that may be more effective than aspirin. This herb, unfortunately, doesn't seem to be of any help once a migraine has manifested. Its greatest benefit is through regular, preventative use.

Because of its anti-inflammatory qualities, it has been used successfully to relieve the pain and inflammation of arthritis. The feverfew plant has also been used to lower blood pressure and to stimulate the appetite and aid the digestive system.

Health Issues That Respond to this herb

Besides headaches, migraines and arthritis, feverfew has been found to be helpful against fevers, muscle pain and tension, stomach irritation, colitis, dizziness and tinnitus.

Using the Feverfew Plant and Side Effects to Watch For

While some have used this plant effectively for menstrual cramps, due to its effects on prostaglandin production, if you suspect you may be pregnant, you should not take this herb. Upsetting prostaglandin production can result in miscarriage. Those who suffer from hay fever may also have a reaction to this plant. Some people have reported mouth sores from chewing on its leaves, so if you experience this side effect, you may want to try another method of ingesting it like capsules.

As you can see, there are many symptoms that this plant can relieve. Like any other medicine, side effects should be watched carefully and the use of the herb should be stopped if side effects are uncomfortable or severe. If you find this herb to be a helpful remedy for your problems, it can be a very inexpensive alternative to regular medicines.

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