Latin Name
Chrysanthemum parthenium

General Description
Feverfew is a perennial with small, daisylike blossoms and leaves that are medicinal. In the late 1970s, British researchers found feverfew leaves helpful in treating migraine headaches where other treatments had failed. They believe this relief is due to the chemical parthenolide, which blocks the release of inflammatory substances from the blood. The researchers consider these inflammatory elements, which affect the walls of the brain's blood vessels, to be key components in the onset of a migraine.

Target Ailments

• Migraine headaches. (Taken internally.)

Preparations
Over the counter:
Available in dry bulk, pills, capsules and tinctures.

At home:
Two fresh or frozen leaves a day chewed for migraines. If you find the leaves too bitter, capsules or pills containing 85 mg. of the leaf material can be substituted, but fresh leaves are best for immediate results.
Tea: 2 tsp. dried herb in 1 cup boiling water steeped for 5 to 10 minutes.

Special Information

• Do not use feverfew if you are pregnant because it may stimulate uterine contractions.
  
• Feverfew may interfere with the blood's clotting ability; talk to your doctor before using if you have a clotting disorder or take anticoagulant medicine.
  
• You may need to take feverfew daily for two to three months before it has any effect.