Feverfew

Feverfew

Feverfew

Formal Name: Tanacetum parthenium
Supplement Forms: Flowers, seeds, liquid

Recommended Daily Allowance

  • Infants: (0 to 12 Months) N/A
  • Children: (1 to 13 years) N/A
  • Adolescents: (14 to 18 Years) N/A
  • Adults: (19 and Older) N/A
  • Lactating Women: N/A
  • Pregnant Women: N/A

Notes: No RDA info available.

Additional Information

History

Legend has it that feverfew was originally referred to as "parthenium" because it was used to save the life of a person who fell from the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. Although the details of this story have been lost to the sands of time, and it's unlikely that feverfew contains any lifesaving properties, the medical uses of feverfew were discovered in 16th century.

Bodily Functions Feverfew Assists

Feverfew is an herb grown mainly in Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is used primarily to treat individuals who experience migraine headaches. Although scientific research has not been able to pinpoint the exact sources of migraines, it is believed that inflammation is a probable cause. Feverfew reduces inflammation in some individuals. In addition, it has been shown to treat psoriasis and arthritis.

Foods High in Feverfew

Feverfew is most commonly found in pill form as a dietary supplement. It can also be used to brew an herbal tea.

Ailment That Feverfew Eliminates:
  • Alleviates and prevents migraine headaches
  • May treat arthritis
  • Relieves menstrual pains
  • Protects against sun damage
  • Treats psoriasis
Side Effects/Pre-Cautions:
  • Dermatitis
  • Flatulence
  • Stomach pains and indigestion
  • Nervousness
  • Long-term feverfew users may experience "post-feverfew syndrome," including headache, nausea, anxiety, and stiffness
  • Do not use feverfew if you are also using warfarin or other blood thinning medication
  • Do not use if you have an allergy to ragweed, marigolds, or chrysanthemums