Feverfew’s leaves have taken on a life of their own as a popular herbal remedy, used to soothe migraines, joint inflammation and more. It is used to relieve headaches, particularly vascular headaches such as migraines and may relieve premenstrual headaches, which often are due to fluid retention and hormonal effects. Some physicians recommend feverfew to relieve menstrual cramps and to facilitate delivery of the placenta following childbirth. It is also reported to reduce fever and inflammation in joints and tissues. The main constituent of feverfew, parthenolide, has been credited with inhibiting the release of serotonin, histamine, and other inflammatory substances that make blood vessels spasm and become inflamed. Feverfew has also been used for centuries for arthritis. Feverfew is an excellent insect repellent and can also be used to treat insect bites. Historically Feverfew was used to treat a number of external ailments including
- scabies
- fleas
- and lice,
when applied as a lotion.
Feverfew is also used for
- fever
- irregular menstrual periods
- arthritis
- a skin disorder called psoriasis
- allergies
- asthma
- ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- dizziness
- and nausea
- and vomiting.
Some people use feverfew for difficulty getting pregnant or fathering a child (infertility). It is also used for
- “tired blood” (anemia)
- cancer
- common cold
- earache
- liver disease
- prevention of miscarriage
- muscular tension
- bone disorders
- swollen feet
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- and intestinal gas.
Feverfew is sometimes applied directly to the gums for toothaches or to the skin to kill germs.