Organic Feverfew (Tenacetum parthenium)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

Family: Asteraceae
Common Names: Bachelor's Buttons, Featherfew, Wild Chamomile
Origin: Native to southeastern Europe, particularly the Balkan Peninsula, but now widely naturalized in temperate regions worldwide.

Botanical Description

Feverfew is a short, bushy perennial herb that typically grows up to 2 feet tall. It has small, daisy-like flowers with white petals and a yellow center, resembling a smaller version of chamomile. The leaves are light green, deeply lobed, and have a strong, bitter scent when crushed.

Habitat and Cultivation

Feverfew thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9. This herb can be grown easily in gardens and is often used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers. It self-seeds readily, making it a low-maintenance plant for herbal gardens.

History and Folklore

Feverfew has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Europe. Its name, derived from the Latin "febrifugia," meaning "fever reducer," reflects its historical use in treating fevers. In folklore, feverfew was also used to ward off evil spirits and protect against the plague.

Medicinal Uses

Feverfew is best known for its role in preventing and treating migraines. It has anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties, making it effective for reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Feverfew is also used for its antipyretic (fever-reducing), anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving effects.

Active Compounds:

• Parthenolide: A sesquiterpene lactone that is believed to be the primary active compound in feverfew, responsible for its anti-inflammatory and migraine-preventive effects.
• Flavonoids: Provide additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
• Volatile Oils: Contribute to feverfew's bitter taste and therapeutic properties.

Energetics and Taste

• Energetics: Warming and drying.
• Taste: Bitter with a slight aromatic quality.

System Affinities

• Nervous System: Feverfew is particularly beneficial for the nervous system, helping to prevent migraines and reduce tension headaches.
• Circulatory System: It has vasodilatory effects, improving blood flow and reducing inflammation.
• Musculoskeletal System: Feverfew may help alleviate general pain and inflammation, including arthritis.

Uses

• Migraine Prevention: Regular use of feverfew can reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of migraines. It is often taken as a supplement or used in teas.
• Headache Relief: Feverfew can help alleviate tension headaches and minor pains.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Used to reduce inflammation, feverfew may benefit those with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
• Fever Reduction: Traditionally used to lower fevers, though this use is less common today.

Cautions

• Pregnancy: Feverfew should be avoided during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
• Allergic Reactions: People with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family should use caution. Feverfew can cause mouth ulcers if the fresh leaves are chewed.
• Medication Interactions: Feverfew may interact with blood-thinning medications and should be used with caution in individuals taking such drugs.

Scientific Studies

1. A 2005 study in Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain found that feverfew significantly reduced the frequency and severity of migraines in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
2. A 2000 review in Phytomedicine highlighted feverfew's effectiveness in preventing migraines, particularly due to its parthenolide content.
3. A 2004 study in Clinical Drug Investigation demonstrated feverfew's potential in reducing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis by decreasing inflammation.