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Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Common Names: Feverfew, Featherfew, Bachelor’s Buttons
  • Parts Used: Leaves, flowers

Description

Feverfew is a bushy, perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, often grown for its small daisy-like flowers. Traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, feverfew is particularly well-known as a remedy for migraines and headaches.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by ancient Greeks and Romans to treat fevers and inflammatory conditions.
  • Employed in European herbal medicine for headaches, arthritis, and menstrual discomfort.
  • Traditionally used to reduce fever, hence the name “feverfew.”

Constituents

  • Parthenolide (a key active compound)
  • Flavonoids
  • Sesquiterpene lactones
  • Volatile oils
  • Tannins

Actions

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Analgesic (pain-relieving)
  • Antispasmodic
  • Vasodilatory
  • Antimicrobial
  • Carminative (relieves gas)

Medicinal Uses

1. Migraine Prevention:
Feverfew is most commonly used to prevent and reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. It works by inhibiting the release of serotonin and other compounds that trigger migraines.

2. Pain Relief:
Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects help alleviate headaches, joint pain, and muscle soreness.

3. Menstrual and Hormonal Support:
Feverfew can help relieve menstrual cramps and hormonal headaches, especially those associated with PMS.

4. Arthritis and Inflammatory Conditions:
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, feverfew is beneficial for managing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

5. Digestive Aid:
Feverfew soothes the digestive tract and relieves symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas.

6. Skin Health:
Used topically, feverfew can reduce skin inflammation and irritation.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried feverfew leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of feverfew tincture, taken 2-3 times daily.

Capsules:

  • 300-600 mg of standardized extract (0.2-0.5% parthenolide), taken daily for migraine prevention.

Topical Use:

  • Apply feverfew-infused oil or cream to inflamed or irritated skin.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use during pregnancy as feverfew may stimulate uterine contractions.
  • Allergic Reactions: Individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed) should use caution.
  • Mouth Irritation: Chewing fresh leaves may cause mouth ulcers or irritation.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Medicine: Cooling and slightly drying, feverfew is used to calm heat and inflammation.
  • Ayurvedic: Balances excess pitta and vata.

Combinations

  • For Migraine Prevention: Combine with butterbur and magnesium.
  • For Pain Relief: Combine with white willow bark and turmeric.
  • For Menstrual Cramps: Combine with cramp bark and dong quai.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are harvested in summer when the plant is in full bloom.
  • Drying: Dry in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried material in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Studies have confirmed feverfew’s effectiveness in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Ongoing research is exploring its role in pain management, inflammation reduction, and hormonal regulation.

Feverfew remains a trusted herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, valued for its effectiveness in preventing migraines and relieving pain and inflammation.