Health Benefits of Feverfew

Certain herbs, which were used centuries ago, are used even today due to their effectiveness in providing quick relief. Feverfew is also one such traditional herb which is known for its health benefits. The herb is commonly found in Europe, North America, some parts of Australia and Chile.

Interestingly, the word 'feverfew' means reducer or fever in Latin. You must have also heard about feverfew tea which is usually consumed to maintain a healthy life. Here is a list of health benefits associated with feverfew tea and extract.

This herb is mostly used to relieve pain or ache. However, as mentioned above, it is also effective in treating fever and several other health conditions. Let us take a look at feverfew uses in detail.

• One of the most important medicinal use of this herb is that it is used to treat headaches; usually migraine headaches. The substance Parthenolide found in feverfew helps in treating migraine. Similarly, the herb is also helpful in treating tension as well as vascular headaches.

All in all, this herb has been found to be the most effective natural remedy to treat different types of headache.

• The substance Parthenolide which helps in treating migraine, also helps in treating the inflammation and pain in joints. Feverfew has been used in many parts of the world for treating arthritis for ages.

• The pain reducing agent found in feverfew makes it one of the most effective herb for treating any pain related disorder. It is especially beneficial for treating pain caused due to sciatica.
• As mentioned above, this herb has been used since long time for treating fever.
• Feverfew is also a well-known anti-inflammatory herb which is helps in reducing the pain and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

• Another benefit of feverfew extract is that it is used in preparation of lotions and salves. Due to the anti-inflammatory property of feverfew, it is used in making ointments that help in treating irritations and inflammation.
• The menstrual cramping and pain is also relieved by this herb. On the contrary, it stimulates proper menstrual flow and helps in treating most of the menstrual disorders.
• Feverfew is used for treating psoriasis and other skin inflammations.

• This herb helps in prevention of blood clots in the body. Therefore, it is a natural anticoagulant.
• There has been no evidence to prove it, but it is believed that this herb is beneficial for treating very mild form of depression.
• The use of this herbs in treating disorder of sleep and having a calm and undisturbed sleep are also well-known.

• In ancient times, it was believed that the aroma let out from feverfew would ward off diseases in itself. However, today, topical creams containing this herb are used as insect repellents.
• Lastly, it should be noted that this herb is a strong laxative which helps in treating constipation. However, if not taken in proper amounts, or if taken for a longer duration, can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, nausea.

We find that the leaves, extract or blossom of the herb are used for their medicinal uses. However, as a word of caution, it is essential to note that there are potential side effects associated with this herb. Therefore, its extract, lotions, tea, should only be used after consulting a doctor. Pregnant women should specially avoid this herb. Take care!