Tanacetum parthenium
Jekkapedia
Tanacetum parthenium, Feverfew
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Tanacetum
Clusters of small white, yellow eyed, daisy flowers. The leaf is mid green, lobed and divided with lightly serrated edges. Culinary; young leaves in salads or with cheese, they have a bitter flavour.
Characteristics:
Feverfew can be seen at the herb farm in Jekka’s Herbetum and is available to buy as both herb plants and online as herb seeds.
Details
Growing
• Indoor Sowing: In early spring, into prepared plug trays or pots, cover with perlite. Bottom heat, 18°C, aids germination.
• Outdoor Sowing: In early summer, into a light, fertile, well-drained soil, sunny and open site.
Medicinal
As its common name suggests, feverfew was once used to treat fevers, due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Nowadays, it is probably better-known as a remedy for headaches and in particular, migraine. Research on feverfew’s benefit in migraine followed on from the discovery of its successful use by a GP’s wife who had been troubled with these for 50 years, and research has confirmed this herb’s benefit. Feverfew’s anti-inflammatory property also means that it is ofthen regarded as beneficial for arthritis especially when it is in the active phase.
Caution: Avoid in pregnancy. Fresh leaves may cause mouth ulcers.
Please note: The information provided here is for educational interest only and is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat significant health problems. Any serious or long-term health concerns should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
See our blog for more information about the National Institute of Medical Herbalists
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