The herbal and health information provided in this Web Site is intended as historical information only. The historical uses are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nothing listed within this Web Site should be considered as medical advice for dealing with a given problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific health problems. Persons with serious medical conditions should always seek professional care.
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), also known as Bachelor's Button, Featherfew, Febrifuge Plant, and Wild Quinine, is a common flowering aromatic plant. Feverfew was known to the ancient Egyptians and Greeks who regarded it as a valuable remedy to alleviate headaches, joint pain, stomach aches, menstrual pains vertigo, and fever. For centuries, it has also been employed as an emmenagogue to promote menstrual flow. The name "Feverfew" is from the latin word, febrifuga, meaning 'to lower fevers'. The genus name, Tanacetum, is derived from anthanasis, meaning 'immortal', as the flowers are long lasting. The parts of the plant used are typically the flowers and leaves.
Modern researchers confirm that Feverfew is a valuable herbal remedy that is especially effective in supporting treatment of migraine headaches and arthritis. Feverfew contains a number of lactones, among them parthenolide, michefuscalide and chrysanthenyl. The main active sesquiterpene lactone, parthenolide, is known to inhibit the production and secretion of prostaglandins - substances released by blood platelets and white blood cells that contribute to migraines. White blood cells secrete substances believed to contribute to the kind of inflammatory processes seen in arthritis, and possibly some other auto-immune disorders. Another substance, Serotonin, is also secreted by blood platelets and can constrict blood vessels and contribute to migraine pain. This inhibition of prostaglandins results in reduction in inflammation, decreased secretion of histamine, and a reduction of fevers, thus the name Feverfew.
Researchers conducting placebo-controlled studies have discovered that taking daily supplements of Feverfew resulted in a 24% reduction in the overall number of migraines, and the headaches that did occur were measurably milder and resulted in less vomiting. Feverfew has also been useful in relaxing smooth muscles in the uterus, promoting menstrual flow and inhibiting platelet aggregation and excessive blood clotting. Feverfew also helps stimulate digestion and improves liver function.
The primary properties of Feverfew are antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antithrombotic, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, nervine, and tonic. Feverfew is typically available as a tea, tincture, or capsule.
As a topical ointment, fresh Feverfew flowers can be rubbed on the skin as an natural insect repellant. Feverfew can also be applied as a compress to the head for headaches and vertigo. Sitz baths of Feverfew are helpful for painful menses.
In rare cases, one may experience irritation of the mouth and tongue, but taking it with food can minimize this possibility. Avoid during pregnancy or if on blood thinning medications, as it can affect the rate of blood clotting. If one is very allergic to ragweed, use under the supervision of a health professional.
(This herbal ingredient can be purchased from Viable Herbal Solutions in powdered and capsule form as part of our Single Herb sales program, and in capsule form as part of our Combo Herbs sales programs.)
