Herbal Information Center - Feverfew
Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium)
From:
http://www.kcweb.com/herb/herbmain.htm
Feverfew, also known as featherfew and bachelor's buttons, is
native to southwest Europe and was brought to America originally
as an ornamental. It is commercially cultivated in Japan, Africa
and Europe. Greek and European herbalists traditionally used it
to reduce fevers. 
The herb has a long history of use in traditional and folk
medicine as a treatment for disorders often controlled by aspirin,
such as fever, headaches and some of the accompanying symptoms
such as nausea and depression.
Recently feverfew has been gaining fame as a effective treatment
for migraine headaches. It may also help ease diseases caused
by chronic inflammation such as arthritis. It is an aromatic plant
with a strong and lasting odor, it has been used externally as an
insect repellent and for treating insect bites.
It is the combination of ingredients in the feverfew plant that
brings such effective relief. It works to inhibit the release of
two inflammatory substances, serotonin and prostaglandins, both
believed to contribute to the onset of migraines. By inhibiting
these amines as well as the production of the chemical histamine,
the herb controls inflammation that constricts the blood vessels
in the head, and prevents blood vessel spasms which may
contribute to headaches.
The plant is rich in sesquiterpene lactones, the principal one
being parthenolide. Other constituents include essential oils,
flavonoid glycosides, pinene derivatives and costic acid.
Feverfew should be taken regularly to receive maximum benefit and
protection from migraines. 
The tea, drunk cold, may also relieve skin perspiration associated
with migraines, and has been used to stimulate appetite, and
improve digestion and kidney function.
Clinical tests have shown the use of feverfew may reduce the
frequency and severity of headaches. It may be more effective
than other nonsteroidal antiinflammatories (NSAIDS), like
aspirin. Additional benefits include lower blood pressure, less
stomach irritation and a renewed sense of well-being. 
It may also relieve dizziness, tinnitus, and painful or
sluggish menstruation. Its extracts have been claimed to relieve
asthma, coughs, dermatitis and worms. 
Parts Used:
Leaves and flowers in extract, infusion, and dried in capsules.
Common Use:
The herb has historically been used as remedy for headache,
inflammation and as a general substitute for ailments treated
with aspirin. Its most popular use is for the prevention of
migraine headaches and associated symptoms. Pregnant women
should not use the herb, and some people have developed mouth
ulcers or experienced loss of taste from eating the fresh leaves. 
Care:
Feverfew is a hearty perennial that will produce an abundant
supply of blossoms. It prefers full sun or partial shade and
well-drained average soil.
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