Remedies Using Feverfew Herb

Feverfew, tanecetum parthenium or chrysanthemum parthenium is an herbal flowering plant that was used as a traditional medicine to treat fever. It is now widely used as an alternative medicine to prevent and treat migraine. A compound called parthenolide is the active ingredient in the leaves that help reduce the occurrence of this severe headache. It has anti inflammatory and anti hyperalgesic properties.

If the blood vessels to the brain are narrowed or blocked, inflammation will happen. Blood flow to the brain is reduced and serotonin that is secreted is unable to reach the brain. Studies found that this herb supports the nervous system by ensuring smooth blood circulation to the brain.

An article published on the American Society of Hematology in 2005 mentioned that parthenolide has anti tumor activity. It also stated that parthenolide in tanecetum parthenium can destroy leukemia in their early growth.

A clinical study found that migraines are greatly reduced when feverfew is taken together with St John's wort and white willow bark. Another study showed that when tanecetum parthenium is taken with magnesium and riboflavin, the frequency of migraine attacks dropped.

Besides treating fever and migraine, this herb is taken to relieve toothache and also joint or arthritis pain. It is also a remedy for stomach aches, allergies and tinnitus or ringing in the ears. It is also beneficial for the skin and is used to treat psoriasis and insect bites. It is used as an herbal remedy to treat respiratory problem such as asthma and bronchitis. Some reports indicated that it may help regulate menstruation.

Wild chamomile is another name for it because the flowers look alike and it grows and spread easily. If you have the herbal plants in your garden, you can make use of the stems, flowers and leaves. The leaf is the best part of the plant. To make your own herbal tea, boil about 1 to 3 fresh or air dried leaves or steep them in hot water. The extract is available in the form of capsules, liquid extract and tablets.

The possible side effects are some stomach discomforts including diarrhea and may cause flatulence. Though it was used to induce labor, do check with an herbalist or doctor before taking it.

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