Herbal Post: Feverfew

Did you know that there is a great herb garden at the farm?  Over the summer I hope to post information about each one - what it is, what to do with it, etc.  Since feverfew's little white blooms are popping up everywhere we'll start with that one.

Feverfew- Tanacetum Parthenium

     easily grown perennial

Parts Used: leaf and flower at peak used fresh or dried

How Used: tinctures, teas, direct consumption, skin wash

What does it do:  Feverfew has been used as a nervine tonic specific against migraines and low spirits.  It has also been used to treat fever, arthritic pain, menstrual cramps, digestive tonic, anti-inflammatory,and insect repellent (WOW - thats alot of good stuff!)

Properties of:  anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, aperient, bitter, carminative, emmenagogue, sedative, stimulant, stings, stomachic, vasodilator, vermifuge properties - It also contains the nutrients of vitamin a, vitamin c, niacin, and Iron

Ideas:  Leaves can be used lightly in a salad or on a bread and butter sandwich.  One of the simplest ways to use this herbs is in a tea.  Simple, quick and easy - also studies have shown that small doses daily are a better treatment for migraines rather then a large dosage at the time of the headache.  Also you can use a strong tea as a skin wash for an insect repellent. (Trying that one soon!)

When NOT to use: while pregnant, or with coagulation problems - if you have allergies to ragweed, daisies, chamomile, chrysanthemums, or yarrow

This is for informational purposes only - it is not meant to be medical advice.  Always do your own research regarding the uses of herbs.  

So this week when your picking up your share take a moment and visit the herb garden to pick some feverfew for your own use.

The Farm Foodie