Tanacetum parthenium
Bushy perennial with small daisy-like flowers and yellow-green, feathery, strongly-scented leaves.
Origin: Southeastern Europe and the Caucasus
Growing Notes: Full sun, well-drained soil, self-seeds readily.
Traditionally used to help ease occasional headache discomfort.
Steep 1-2 tsp dried leaf, covered, 8-10 min; fresh leaf can also be chewed, though this may cause mouth irritation or ulcers in some people.
Dosage: Tea: 1-2 tsp dried leaf per cup.
May increase bleeding risk — avoid before surgery or if taking blood-thinning medication. Avoid during pregnancy (uterine stimulant). Stopping feverfew abruptly after regular long-term use has been associated with a rebound of headache symptoms ('post-feverfew syndrome') in some people — taper off gradually rather than stopping suddenly if used regularly. Avoid if allergic to ragweed/daisy family plants.
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