Feverfew
Natural Healing Herbs
Feverfew is an herb commonly used to reduce fevers. It got it's name from the Latin word febrifugia, which means "fever reducer."
Other Names
The Latin names for this herb are chrysanthemum parthenium, tanacetum parthenium, and pyrethrum parthenium. It's also known as featherfew, flirtwort, and bachelor's buttons.
Appearance
This herb grows to be 46 cm tall. The leaves have a citrus scent and the flowers that cover the plant look like daisies.
Origins
The plant is native to Europe and Asia.
Parts Used
The stem, leaves, and flowers are dried and used. The leaves can be used fresh also.
Medicinal Uses
This herb is used to treat a variety of conditions including:
- migraines
- fevers
- rheumatoid arthritis
- infertility
- stomach aches
- menstrual difficulties
- asthma
- skin difficulties
- diffulties during childbirth
You can by this herb and many others at Mountain Rose Herbs.
Side Effects and Warnings
If you're allergic to daisies or chrysanthemum you may have an allergic reaction to this herb.
If you have a bleeding disorder or are taking a blood thinner or aspirin on a regular basis you shouldn't take this herb.
Side effects may include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and gas. If you chew on the raw leaves you can develop mouth sores and swelling of the lips.
If you take this herb for more than 1 week you will experience withdrawal symptoms including fatigue, joint pain, headaches and anxiety when you stop taking it.
If you take prescription medication ask your doctor before taking it.
You shouldn't take it when your are nursing or pregnant.
If you found this information useful, check out my complete listing of herbs at my Herb Index. You can find a listing of ailments and their natural treatments on my Free Home Remedies page.
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