Tanacetum parthenium (formerly Chrysanthemum parthenium)

Family

Asteraceae (Daisy Family)

Etymology

The genus name Tanacetum derives from the Latin anthanasis, "immortal," referring to the long life of the flowers. The species name parthenium derives from the Greek parthenonos, "virgin," in reference to the famous temple dedicated to the goddess Athena; legend tells that feverfew was used to save the life of a worker who fell from the walls of the temple. The common name feverfew derives from the Latin febrifuga, "to chase away fevers," in reference to the plant's medicinal use.  

Range of Appearance

Feverfew is a perennial native to southeastern Europe. The plant reaches a height of 6 to 18 inches. The leaves are strongly scented, feathery, greenish yellow, and bipinnate. The flowers are daisylike, with white petals and yellow centers.

Parts Used

Flower, leaf

Physiological Effects

Alterative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aperient, aromatic, bitter, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, nervine, purgative, stimulant, tonic, vasodilator, vermifuge

Medicinal Uses

Feverfew prevents blood platelet aggregation and inhibits the release of inflammatory substances from cells, including leukotriene and thromboxane prostaglandins. It also inhibits the release of histamine and serotonin. It is used in the treatment of allergies, amenorrhea, arthritis, colds, dysmenorrhea, fever, flu, headache, indigestion, migraine, pain, placenta retention, rheumatism, stomachache, toothache, and worms. It may take several weeks to get results from using feverfew. Eating a few leaves every day can help prevent migraines. Topically, feverfew can be applied as a compress to the head to relieve headache, to the gums to reduce swelling after a tooth extraction, or to bruises to facilitate healing. It also can be used in a sitz bath to relieve menstrual cramps or in an enema to get rid of worms. The fresh flowers can be rubbed onto the skin to soothe insect bites.

Culinary Uses

Feverfew is edible, though it is not generally considered a food source. It has been used to flavor pastries and wine.

Other Uses

The flowers deter bugs and moths and are sometimes added to sachets kept with clothing. They also can be rubbed fresh onto the skin as an insect repellent. The essential oil is used in perfumery.

Constituents

Sesquiterpene lactones (parthenolide), essential oils (borneol, camphor, terpene), camphor, pyrethirin, tannins

Contraindications

Avoid during pregnancy and while nursing. Because it can diminish blood-clotting ability, feverfew should not be used in conjunction with blood-thinning medications and should be avoided for at least a week prior to surgery. In rare cases feverfew can cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, mouth, or tongue; taking it with food can minimize this possibility. In cases of severe allergy to ragweed, a close relative of feverfew, use feverfew under the guidance of a qualified health-care practitioner. In rare cases topical use of feverfew can cause contact dermatitis.

Plant details were provided by iPlant by Brigitte Mars.

Hyperlink it to https://brigittemars.com/iplant-app/