Feverfew, also known as featherfew, has a long history of use as an herbal remedy. Originally brought to America as an ornamental flower due to its bright yellow and white blossoms and feathery green leaves, feverfew also has the name of Bachelor’s Buttons. A perennial, feverfew produces an abundance of blossoms with minimal attention given to its growth.

Ailments, traditionally treated by aspirin or acetaminophen, are treated with feverfew. In particular, the symptoms of headaches and fevers are often alleviated with feverfew use. Occasionally, symptoms that accompany headaches, such as nausea and mild depression, are also alleviated with feverfew use.

Today, feverfew is primarily used to treat migraines and the unpleasant symptoms that go along with them. Long-term use of feverfew for migraines has produced positive results. Symptoms generally diminish after a six-week regimen of daily use.

Additionally, individuals experiencing the discomfort of chronic inflammation due to arthritis may benefit from feverfew remedies. Feverfew has been used to improve digestion and the functioning of the kidneys. It has also been shown to stimulate the appetite.

No known side effects have surfaced with long-term use of feverfew in otherwise healthy individuals. However, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid it.

Additionally, anyone on blood thinning medications, including heparin or coumadin, should avoid the use of this herbal remedy due to its anti-clotting capabilities. Feverfew should not be taken in its natural leaf form since this may lead to mouth ulcers or the loss of taste sensations.

A cold tea made from steeping one ounce of the plant in one pint of water produces an effective remedy. Available as a tincture, tea, or capsules, feverfew should be used in the specified dosage.

Due to its pungent odor, feverfew has been used as an insect repellent. Despite the brightness of the blossoms, even bees tend to stay away from the plant. In this case, a little bit goes a long way. The blossoms are steeped in vodka for several days and then the resulting mixture is strained. The leaves of the plant, soaked in cold water, have been used as an effective treatment for insect bites.

For long lasting relief, feverfew should be taken on a daily basis. However, anyone using feverfew on a regular basis over time should occasionally stop using the herbal remedy to determine the need to continue its use. Additionally, a personal physician should be consulted prior to the use of this herbal remedy.