Feverfew, Closeup
Latin Name: Chrysanthemum parthenium, Matricaria parthenium, Tanacetum parthenium
Family: Compositae
Description
It is said that when feverfew is planted around your dwellings, it will purify the atmosphere and ward off disease. When taken internally, it can purify the mind and ward off migraines.
Feverfew is a type of chrysanthemum and is most effect when used fresh. Grow it indoors or out and use the leaves as required.
Feverfew
Ailments / Situations Where Used Feverfew has been used to treat vascular headaches for centuries. Today, feverfew is mainly known for its ability to treat and in some cases cure migraine headaches. Over a dozen studies have concluded that the active ingredient, parthenolide, reduces blood-vessel spasms, which trigger migraines, and has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is really a wonderful remedy for a headache, although the real underlying cause of the headache should be explored. This herb cannot stop a migraine already in progress but is rather used as a preventative to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches.
This plant is very serviceable in may other conditions besides migraine headaches. It helps in the treatment of dizziness and tinnitus and is a great anti-inflammatory -- useful in cases of arthritis and inflammatory rheumatism. Feverfew can alleviate nausea and vomiting, promote a restful sleep, treat nervousness, and pick up low spirits. Feverfew is also given during painful and sluggish menstrual flow and is used after childbirth to cleanse and tone the uterus.
This plant contains naturally occurring bitter properties and is used for digestive weaknesses. It also helps treat colds, flu, and fever. The tincture is applied externally to swollen and painful insect bites. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this plant is used to remove excess heat in the liver, which results in many different ailments.
Source
Leaves
Preparations
Fresh: This plant can be eaten (a few leaves at a time) to treat migraines.
Infusion: Use 1/2 to 1 tsp. feverfew per cup of boiling water. Let steep 5 to 10 minutes. Drink up to 2 cups daily.
Supplement: Take 50 to 80mg daily as a preventative. During an attack, take 1 to 2g in divided doses throughout the day. You may also consider looking for supplements that contain at least 0.2% parthenolide, or 250mcg to 500mcg.
Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops of quality tincture 3 times daily.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Do not use in a weakened or debilitated state. Do not give to small children. Fresh leaves may cause mouth ulcers if eaten. Some may experience stomach upset and nervousness.
Do not use during pregnancy as it is too stimulating to the womb. Also do not use if nursing.
Feverfew reduces blood clotting. If you are taking anti-coagulant drugs, such as warfarin sodium, or are preparing for surgery, consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner before taking this herb.
Ailment / Situation Listing
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