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Feverfew

Tanacetum parthenium

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
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Flowering Months:

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Order:

Asterales

Family:

Asteraceae (Daisy)

Also in this family:

Alpine Blue Sow-thistle, Alpine Cotula, Alpine Fleabane, Alpine Saw-wort, Annual Ragweed, Annual Sunflower, Argentine Fleabane, Autumn Hawkbit, Autumn Oxeye, Beaked Hawksbeard, Beggarticks, Bilbao Fleabane, Black Knapweed, Black-eyed Susan, Blanketflower, Blue Fleabane, Blue Globe-thistle, Bristly Oxtongue, Broad-leaved Cudweed, Broad-leaved Ragwort, Brown Knapweed, Butterbur, Buttonweed, Cabbage Thistle, Canadian Fleabane, Canadian Goldenrod, Carline Thistle, Chalk Knapweed, Chamois Ragwort, Changing Michaelmas Daisy, Chicory, Chinese Mugwort, Chinese Ragwort, Coltsfoot, Common Blue Sow-thistle, Common Cat's-ear, Common Cudweed, Common Daisy, Common Dandelion, Common Fleabane, Common Goldenrod, Common Groundsel, Common Michaelmas Daisy, Common Mugwort, Common Ragwort, Common Wormwood, Coneflower, Confused Michaelmas Daisy, Corn Chamomile, Corn Marigold, Cornflower, Cotton Thistle, Cottonweed, Creeping Thistle, Daisy Bush, Dwarf Cudweed, Dwarf Thistle, Early Goldenrod, Eastern Groundsel, Eastern Leopardsbane, Elecampane, English Hawkweed, Fen Ragwort, Field Fleawort, Field Wormwood, Fox and Cubs, French Tarragon, Gallant Soldier, Garden Lettuce, Giant Butterbur, Glabrous-headed Hawkweed, Glandular Globe-thistle, Glaucous Michaelmas Daisy, Globe Artichoke, Globe-thistle, Goat's Beard, Golden Ragwort, Golden Samphire, Goldilocks Aster, Grass-leaved Goldenrod, Great Lettuce, Greater Burdock, Greater Knapweed, Grey-headed Hawkweed, Guernsey Fleabane, Hairless Blue Sow-thistle, Hairless Leptinella, Hairy Michaelmas Daisy, Harpur Crewe's Leopardsbane, Hawkweed Oxtongue, Heath Cudweed, Heath Groundsel, Hemp Agrimony, Highland Cudweed, Hoary Mugwort, Hoary Ragwort, Hybrid Knapweed, Intermediate Burdock, Irish Fleabane, Jersey Cudweed, Jerusalem Artichoke, Lance-leaved Hawkweed, Lavender-cotton, Leafless Hawksbeard, Least Lettuce, Leopardplant, Leopardsbane, Leptinella, Lesser Burdock, Lesser Hawkbit, Lesser Sunflower, London Bur-marigold, Magellan Ragwort, Marsh Cudweed, Marsh Hawksbeard, Marsh Ragwort, Marsh Sow-thistle, Marsh Thistle, Meadow Thistle, Melancholy Thistle, Mexican Fleabane, Milk Thistle, Mountain Everlasting, Mouse-ear Hawkweed, Musk Thistle, Narrow-leaved Cudweed, Narrow-leaved Hawkweed, Narrow-leaved Michaelmas Daisy, Narrow-leaved Ragwort, New England Hawkweed, New Zealand Holly, Nipplewort, Nodding Bur-marigold, Northern Hawksbeard, Norwegian Mugwort, Oxeye Daisy, Oxford Ragwort, Pearly Everlasting, Perennial Cornflower, Perennial Ragweed, Perennial Sow-thistle, Perennial Sunflower, Pineapple Mayweed, Plantain-leaved Leopardsbane, Ploughman's Spikenard, Plymouth Thistle, Pontic Blue Sow-thistle, Pot Marigold, Prickly Lettuce, Prickly Sow-thistle, Purple Coltsfoot, Rayed Tansy, Red Star Thistle, Red-seeded Dandelion, Red-tipped Cudweed, Robin's Plantain, Roman Chamomile, Rough Cocklebur, Rough Hawkbit, Rough Hawksbeard, Russian Lettuce, Safflower, Salsify, Saw-wort, Scented Mayweed, Scentless Mayweed, Sea Aster, Sea Mayweed, Sea Wormwood, Seaside Daisy, Shaggy Mouse-ear Hawkweed, Shaggy Soldier, Shasta Daisy, Shetland Mouse-ear Hawkweed, Shrub Ragwort, Sicilian Chamomile, Silver Ragwort, Slender Mugwort, Slender Thistle, Small Cudweed, Small Fleabane, Smooth Cat's-ear, Smooth Hawksbeard, Smooth Sow-thistle, Sneezeweed, Sneezewort, Spear Thistle, Spotted Cat's-ear, Spotted Hawkweed, Sticky Groundsel, Stinking Chamomile, Stinking Hawksbeard, Tall Fleabane, Tall Mouse-ear Hawkweed, Tansy, Thin-leaved Sunflower, Treasureflower, Trifid Bur-marigold, Tuberous Thistle, Tyneside Leopardplant, Viper's Grass, Wall Lettuce, Welsh Groundsel, Welted Thistle, White African Daisy, White Butterbur, White Buttons, Willdenow's Leopardsbane, Winter Heliotrope, Wood Burdock, Wood Ragwort, Woody Fleabane, Woolly Thistle, Yarrow, Yellow Chamomile, Yellow Fox and Cubs, Yellow Oxeye, Yellow Star Thistle, Yellow Thistle, York Groundsel

Type:

Flower

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Maximum Size:

50 centimetres tall

Habitats:

Beaches, fields, gardens, grassland, lawns, meadows, roadsides, scrub, seaside, towns, walls, wasteland, woodland.

Flower:

White, many petals

Feverfew, known for its charming and dainty blooms, is a native UK wildflower that graces the British countryside with its delightful presence. The small, white, daisy-like flowers of Feverfew feature delicate, intricate petals that radiate simplicity and purity. In British gardens, these flowers add a touch of understated elegance and natural beauty. Feverfew's blooms are a testament to the subtle enchantment found in the UK's flora, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the tranquil allure of these native blossoms.

Fruit:

Feverfew, native to the UK, is not particularly known for its fruit, as it is more renowned for its charming, daisy-like flowers. However, the small, inconspicuous fruits it produces are often referred to as achenes. These achenes are typically tiny and not a prominent feature of the plant. Instead, Feverfew's appeal lies primarily in its delicate and beautiful white blooms, which bring a touch of natural elegance to the British landscape. Seeds, ripening in August and September.

Leaves:

Feverfew, a native UK plant, boasts a lush and abundant display of feathery, deeply lobed leaves. These leaves are characterized by their vibrant green colour, and they are known for their distinctive, serrated edges. Feverfew's leaves have been traditionally used for various herbal remedies due to their aromatic qualities. They exude a mild, pleasant scent when crushed. In the British landscape, the lush foliage of Feverfew adds a touch of greenery and charm, making it a valuable and attractive component of the country's native flora.

Aroma:

Feverfew, a native UK plant, is known for its gentle and aromatic fragrance. When its feathery leaves are gently crushed or brushed against, they release a pleasant, slightly pungent scent that carries a subtle herbal quality. While not as overpowering as some other aromatic herbs, Feverfew's fragrance is appreciated for its delicate and calming nature. This subtle scent has contributed to its historical use in herbal medicine, where it was believed to possess soothing properties. The fragrance of Feverfew adds a touch of natural charm to the British countryside, making it a beloved component of the local flora.

Other Names:

Ague Plant, Bachelor's Buttons, Bride's Buttons, Devil Daisy, Featherfew, Featherfoil, Feather-fully, Febrifuge Plant, Flirtwort, Maids, Maid's Weed, Maithes, Midsummer Daisy, Missouri Snakeroot, Mother-herb, Nosebleed, Pale Maids, Pellitory, Prairie Dock, Rainfarn, Santa Maria, Vetter-voo, Wild Chamomile.

Frequency (UK):

Common

Tall Fleabane

Rayed Tansy

Summary

Tanacetum parthenium, commonly known as feverfew, is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and menstrual cramps.

The leaves of the feverfew plant contain a compound called parthenolide, which is believed to be responsible for its medicinal properties. Parthenolide has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects, which may help to explain why the plant has traditionally been used to treat headaches.

Feverfew has been used to in clinical trials to help reduce the frequency of migraines and the intensity of headaches. Although some studies have found that taking feverfew supplements can be effective in preventing migraines, other studies have not found a significant benefit.

It should be noted that while feverfew is considered to be generally safe when used in the short term, it can cause some side effects such as mouth ulcers, digestive upset and allergic reactions. Furthermore, feverfew can interact with some medications, such as blood thinners and contraceptive pills, so it's important to consult a doctor before taking it if you are on any medication.

It's important to note that the potential benefits of Feverfew are not yet fully understood and the majority of clinical trials were not conducted with the highest level of scientific rigor, So further clinical studies are necessary to confirm the safety and efficacy of this herb.

Blog

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. It is a member of the daisy family and is native to Europe, but it can now be found growing all over the world. The plant has a strong, bitter taste and a distinctive aroma that some people find unpleasant. However, its therapeutic benefits have made it a popular remedy in many cultures.

Historically, feverfew has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including fever, migraine headaches, arthritis, menstrual cramps, and digestive issues. The plant contains a number of bioactive compounds, including parthenolide, which is thought to be responsible for many of its medicinal properties.

One of the most well-known uses of feverfew is for the prevention of migraine headaches. Studies have shown that feverfew can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines in some people. It is thought to work by inhibiting the release of inflammatory substances in the body that can cause migraines.

Feverfew has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. It may be useful in treating conditions such as arthritis, menstrual cramps, and other types of pain. Additionally, feverfew has been studied for its potential to prevent certain types of cancer, including breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancer. However, more research is needed in this area.

In addition to its medicinal properties, feverfew is also used in culinary applications. The leaves of the plant can be used to add a bitter, herbaceous flavor to salads, soups, and other dishes. It is important to note, however, that feverfew should not be consumed in large quantities as it can cause stomach upset and other adverse effects.

Feverfew can be consumed in a variety of forms, including capsules, teas, and tinctures. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using feverfew as a supplement or remedy, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.

Feverfew is relatively easy to grow and can be cultivated in most climates. The plant prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings and typically blooms from mid-summer to early fall.

Feverfew has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back to ancient Greece. The name feverfew comes from the Latin word febrifugia, which means "fever reducer". In the past, it was used to treat fevers and other illnesses, as well as to ward off evil spirits.

Today, feverfew is most commonly used as a natural remedy for migraines. It is thought to work by reducing inflammation and preventing the constriction of blood vessels in the brain, which can lead to migraines. Some studies have found that taking feverfew supplements may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines, but more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness.

In addition to migraines, feverfew is sometimes used to treat other types of headaches, arthritis, menstrual cramps, and digestive issues. It may also have anti-cancer properties, although this area of research is still in its early stages.

Feverfew is generally considered safe when used as directed, although it can cause side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and mouth ulcers. It can also interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before using feverfew as a supplement or remedy.

Feverfew is not only used in traditional medicine and as a natural remedy, but also in cosmetics and skincare products. The plant has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that make it useful in treating skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Some people also use feverfew as a natural toner or astringent for the skin.

In addition to its medicinal and cosmetic uses, feverfew is also used in the production of insecticides and as a natural repellent for insects such as flies, mosquitoes, and ants. The plant contains compounds such as camphor and limonene that are effective in repelling insects.

Feverfew is not recommended for use during pregnancy or by people with allergies to plants in the daisy family, as it may cause allergic reactions. It can also interact with certain medications such as blood-thinning drugs and should not be used by people with bleeding disorders.

Feverfew is generally considered safe when used as directed, but it may cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some people may also experience mouth ulcers, headaches, and nervousness. These side effects are typically mild and go away on their own once the herb is discontinued.

In rare cases, feverfew may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to plants in the daisy family. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

Feverfew can interact with certain medications, including blood-thinning drugs and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen. People taking these medications should talk to their healthcare provider before taking feverfew.

It is also important to note that feverfew may interact with certain herbs and supplements, such as garlic and ginkgo biloba. People taking these supplements should talk to their healthcare provider before taking feverfew.

Feverfew is available in many forms, including capsules, tablets, teas, tinctures, and creams. When choosing a feverfew supplement, it is important to look for products that are standardized to contain a certain amount of parthenolide, which is the active ingredient in the herb.

Feverfew is an herb that is rich in nutrients and antioxidants. It contains a variety of compounds, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and volatile oils. The active ingredient in feverfew, parthenolide, is a sesquiterpene lactone that is thought to be responsible for many of the herb's therapeutic properties.

In addition to its medicinal uses, feverfew has been used in folk medicine for a variety of purposes, such as treating toothaches, reducing fever, and promoting menstruation. It was also used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages, as well as a natural dye.

Feverfew is a member of the Asteraceae family, which includes other plants such as chamomile, echinacea, and dandelion. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 24 inches tall and produces clusters of small, daisy-like flowers. The leaves of the feverfew plant are dark green and have a strong, bitter taste.

While feverfew is generally safe for most people when used as directed, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before taking feverfew supplements or using it as a remedy. This is particularly important for pregnant or nursing women, children, and people with medical conditions or who are taking prescription medications.

In conclusion, feverfew is a versatile and useful herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. While more research is needed to fully understand its therapeutic benefits, many people have found relief from migraines, arthritis, and other conditions with the use of feverfew. As with any natural remedy, it is important to use caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using feverfew as a supplement or remedy.