FEVERFEW (Tavacetyn parthenium)
What is Feverfew?
Other names : Chrysanthenum pateniuem, featherfew.
Description and the places it grows in :
Naturalised in British and European gardens. It is perennial, sometime biennial with yellow/green leaves. The flowers are 1-2 cm wide with yellow middles and white petals. The plant flowers mid summer.
Parts used :
Dried leaves and/or dried flowering tops used.
Properties : Bitter, aperient, tonic.
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Used for :
- Migraines and headaches - During a migraine attack, prostaglandins and histamines are released in the body and it is thought that the sesquiterpene in the feverfew stops these two substances being released thus preventing the blood vessels from spasming, the very thing that is thought to trigger migraines.
- Skin conditions - eczema and psoriasis respond well to this herb.
- Convalescence - can be eaten raw when the leaves have been candied.
Other uses : - Relieves nausea.
- Aids restful sleep.
- Helps with digestive disorders if taken as an infusion.
- Reduces inflammation associated with arthritis
- Relieves vomiting.
- It can promote menstruation.
- Reduces fevers.
- Supports adrenal glands.
- Helps tinnitus.
Constituents :
Sesquiterpene, lactones, (including parthenolide) and sontamarine, volatile oils and tannins.
Contraindications :
Seeds contain small amounts of liver toxins therefore this herb should not be used by women who are pregnant.
It should not be used by those who have schizophrenia either.
Minor side effects :
Include : Bloating, nausea, indigestion