| Feverfew |
| Parts used
Leaves |
|
| Common Uses The prevention and long term treatment of migraine headaches. |
|
How Feverfew Works
What triggers a migraine headache is, for the most part, a
mystery. Today's medical research is focused on the role of platelets in the blood, which
appear to act abnormally in people who suffer migraines. Feverfew helps reduce this
abnormal behavior and in doing so lessens the severity, duration and frequency of migraine
headaches. |
| It must be noted that Feverfew is not a quick cure for a
migraine attack. Studies have shown that 4 – 6 weeks are usually needed for the herb
to start taking effect. After this you will hopefully experience fewer migraines that are
less severe and that do not last as long. |
|
Side Effects
There have been no studies into the long term toxicity of
feverfew. However studies on feverfew have shown no major side effects. Some people do
experience minor side effects, like mild stomach upset and nervousness, and chewing the
leaves can also cause mouth ulcers in some people. |
|
Safety Concerns
Feverfew should not be taken during pregnancy or lactation. It
is also not recommended for children under 2 years old. |
|
The History of Feverfew
There is split opinion as to whether the name
"Feverfew" is derived from a corruption of the name "featherfew"
referring to its fine feathery leaves or whether the name comes from the Latin for
"chase away fevers". |
| Either way the plant has been used as a medicinal herb for
hundreds of years. In the past it was commonly used only externally as feverfew was
thought to be too bitter to be taken internally. It was, however, commonly taken by women
after childbirth to help expel the placenta. |
| Today Feverfew is famous as the premier herbal therapy for
migraine sufferers. |
