Herbs, Plants, Trees and Roots | December, 2011

You entered Wild Chamomile, the more common name is...

Once in popular use, Feverfew has fallen into considerable disuse; even its name no longer seems to fit. It is also hard to find, even at herbal outlets. If you are lucky enough to get it, try the warm infusion for colic, flatulence, eructations, indigestion, flu, colds, fever, ague, freckles, age spots, and alcoholic DT's. A cold extract has a tonic effect. The flowers in particular show a purgative action. Feverfew is an effective remedy against opium taken too liberally. Relieves headaches, migraines, arthritis, neuritis, neuralgia, indigestion, colds, and muscle tension. Feverfew has been used to eliminates worms, stimulates the appetite, increases fluidity of lung an bronchial tube mucus, stimulates uterine contractions, and promote menstruation. Make a tincture to use as an insect repellent.

Feverfew

SCIENTIFIC NAME:
(Chrysanthemum Parthenium)


This plant can grow as high as 18 inches and takes on the appearance of a small bush. It has citrus-scented leaves and is covered by flowers reminiscent of daisies. It spreads rapidly, and they will cover a wide area after a few years.



Common Names:

Bachelor’s button, Bride’s button, Compositae, Featherfew, Featherfoil, Febrifuge Plant, Pyrethrum, Wild Chamomile


Feverfew

Uses:

Once in popular use, Feverfew has fallen into considerable disuse; even its name no longer seems to fit. It is also hard to find, even at herbal outlets. If you are lucky enough to get it, try the warm infusion for colic, flatulence, eructations, indigestion, flu, colds, fever, ague, freckles, age spots, and alcoholic DT's. A cold extract has a tonic effect. The flowers in particular show a purgative action. Feverfew is an effective remedy against opium taken too liberally. Relieves headaches, migraines, arthritis, neuritis, neuralgia, indigestion, colds, and muscle tension. Feverfew has been used to eliminates worms, stimulates the appetite, increases fluidity of lung an bronchial tube mucus, stimulates uterine contractions, and promote menstruation. Make a tincture to use as an insect repellent.



Applications:

Infusion:
Use 1 heaping tsp. of the herb with 1 cup water. Take 1 to 2 cups, as indicated. For DTs, take 15 to 40 drops, as often as required.

Tincture:
To combat insects, a tincture made from Feverfew mixed with 1/2 pint of cold water will keep away the gnats, mosquitoes, and other pests. Feverfew has the power to relieve the pain and swelling caused by the bites of insects and vermin. Bees find the odor and taste of Feverfew highly repulsive.


Warnings:

Feverfew should not be taken by pregnant women or anyone using blood thinners as it may increase the risk of bleeding, and may also interact with a variety of medications metabolized by the liver.
Long-term use of feverfew followed by abrupt discontinuation may induce a withdrawal syndrome featuring rebound headaches and muscle and joint pains.
Feverfew can cause allergic reactions, including contact dermatitis. Other side effects have included gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and flatulence. When the herb is chewed or taken orally it can cause mouth ulcers and swelling and numbness of the mouth.

With any herb, there is the risk of an allergic reaction. Small children and pregnant women should use additional caution when considering the use of herbal remedies.