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Feverfew
A hardy herb, easy to grow and useful for treating headaches, fevers and assorted aches and pains.
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), native to southeastern Europe, has been used for centures as a remedy for headaches, especially migraines, also fevers and arthritis. It can also be used as an insect repellent and the tincture soothes bug bites. Are you surprised that it's a member of the sunflower family? The blooms look like little daisies. Dried leaves are brewed in a tea, or two to three fresh leaves can be chewed daily for migraine preventative. The reason feverfew works so well is because it contains parthenolide, a substance that relaxes constricted blood vessels and muscle spasms, and it works against compounds that cause inflammation.
In the Garden: Like most herbs, feverfew is basically a weed. It requires little or no care and in fact is considered by some to be a potentially invasive plant. Seeds can be sowed outdoors right after the last frost date. Plant feverfew where it can enjoy full sun. It starts flowering in late spring and blooms throughout the summer, often into the fall. It quickly takes root and will self-sow abundantly, so pick off the flower heads if you don't want the plant to spread. Feverfew rarely suffers from the nibblings of slugs or other garden pests, and the rabbits and deer don't like it either! Precautions: This herb should not be used by children under the age of 2, and for ages up to 6 years, give 1/3 the adult dose. Do not take feverfew without first consulting your doctor if you are on blood thinners or have bleeding disorders. If you have grass allergies (ragweed, chamomile and yarrow) you will also be allergic to feverfew. Avoid this herb if you are nursing or pregnant. If you use feverfew daily for more than a week, you may experience aches, tension or recurring headaches if you suddenly stop. Reference Sources: University of Maryland Medical Center Dave's Garden (Plant Files) |
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