What is feverfew?
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), also known as "big chamomile", St. Mary's herb or chamomile feverfew, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. Its appearance is reminiscent of daisies, with white flowers and a yellow center, and grows spontaneously in fields, roadsides and gardens in Europe, Asia and currently in many other regions of the world.
With an upright bearing, it can reach between 20 and 60 cm tall, with highly branched stems and leaves segmented into irregular leaflets with jagged edges. Its flowers, in flower heads, have a conical central bud with yellow tubular flowers and oval white ligules.
In addition to its ornamental value and characteristic aroma, feverfew is recognized for its medicinal properties valued since ancient times and partly supported by modern research.
Composition and active ingredients of feverfew
The medicinal efficacy of feverfew is due to a combination of active components concentrated especially in the leaves and flowersAmong the most relevant compounds are:
- Parthenolide: a sesquiterpene lactone with proven anti-inflammatory properties and action on serotonin, related to the relief of migraines and other headaches.
- Essential oils: Elements such as alpha-pinene and borneol stand out, with calming and aromatic effects.
- Flavonoids: such as tanetin, apigenin and luteolin, with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic capacity.
- Phytosterols y tannins: with astringent and regenerative actions.
- Alcanfor and terpene compounds: contribute to the tonic and balsamic effect.
- Phenolic acids: such as chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, also antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.
- Polysaccharides: which can contribute to strengthening the immune system.
Medicinal properties of feverfew
Traditional use and modern studies agree that feverfew offers remarkable health benefits, especially as:
- Migraine preventative and relief: Parthenolide acts by inhibiting the excessive release of serotonin, reducing the intensity, frequency and neurovegetative symptoms associated with migraines and headaches.
- Analgesic and anti-inflammatory: Helps relieve various types of pain, from muscular and rheumatic pain to menstrual discomfort.
- Antispasmodic and emmenagogue: Balances the menstrual cycle, relieves cramps and helps regulate flow.
- Digestive tonic: It is useful for heavy digestion, abdominal bloating, gas and to stimulate the appetite.
- Fever reducer: It has traditionally been used to lower body temperature and treat fever.
- Relief from skin conditions: It is used in the form of topical applications to treat irritations, psoriasis and insect bites, thanks to its soothing, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action.
- Immune system balancer: Its polysaccharides and flavonoids help strengthen the body's natural defenses.
- Skin Microbiome Care: It shows positive effects on the bacterial balance of the skin, acting against species such as Staphylococcus epidermidis y S. aureus.
- Vasodilator: It has a slight vasodilatory effect, helping blood circulation.
Popular benefits and validated applications include:
- Reduction of inflammatory pain (arthritis, rheumatism).
- Menstrual regulation and relief of premenstrual symptoms.
- Improved digestion and relief from nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal disturbances.
- Relief from insomnia and mild anxiety for its mild sedative action.
- Elimination of intestinal parasites (traditional use).
- topical relief of bites, psoriasis, minor wounds and irritations.
- Improvement of menopausal hot flashes.
- Reduction of tinnitus (tinnitus, traditionally).
Medicinal uses and forms of presentation
Feverfew can be consumed and used in several ways, the main ones being:
- InfusionThe dried leaves, alone or in combination with other herbs (such as basil, marjoram, and rosemary), are used to relieve headaches, migraines, and digestive problems. It is recommended to let the infusion steep for 5-8 minutes.
- Supplements: Capsules, tablets and standardized powder for controlled and convenient consumption, always following the recommended dose.
- Tincture: Hydroalcoholic preparation of the plant, useful for rheumatic and muscular pain.
- Topical creams and gels: With extracts of feverfew, to treat skin irritations, localized inflammations and improve the appearance of the skin.
- Liquid extracts: Incorporated into pharmaceutical products, cosmetics or nutritional supplements.
Some people also consume fresh leaves, but it's important to remember that they can be bitter and cause mild oral irritation in sensitive individuals. For greater purity and safety, it's recommended to purchase standardized, quality-tested products.
Matricaria and personal care: modern applications
Today, feverfew has been revalued in industries such as pharmaceutical, cosmetic, nutritional supplements and, especially, oral and skin careIts presence in formulations is related to:
- Reduction of inflammation and irritation in products for sensitive skin, dermatitis and mild topical conditions.
- Oral microbiome balance: Its use in natural toothpastes and mouthwashes is on the rise due to the demand for botanical ingredients with antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and balancing action.
- Capillary care: Chamomile feverfew clarifies and beautifies hair, also adding soothing properties to the scalp.
Thanks to its richness in antioxidants, its inclusion in anti-aging products is encouraged, and its extracts are appreciated by those seeking vegan, sustainable, and cruelty-free alternatives.
How to grow feverfew
Feverfew It is a hardy plant, ideal for orchards, gardens, and container gardens. It adapts to both dry and well-drained soils and a variety of environmental conditions.
Its main cultivation characteristics are:
- Perennial species: It flowers annually and is easily propagated by both seed and self-germination.
- Siembra: It can be done in spring or autumn, directly in the soil or in seedbeds.
- Harvest: The leaves can be collected throughout the year, but it is advisable to do so just before flowering to maximize the concentration of its active ingredients. The flowers are harvested when they are fully open.
- Light and soil requirements: It prefers direct exposure to the sun (although it tolerates some shade), well-drained and non-flooded soils.
- IrrigationAlthough it is drought-resistant, it does not tolerate excessive waterlogging. Water only when the substrate is dry.
- Propagation: Feverfew can self-seeding and can sometimes become invasive under ideal conditions. Controlling its spread is easy if the dried flowers are removed before seed dispersal.
- Association with other plants: Its aroma helps repel mosquitoes and pests, making it useful for the ecological management of orchards and gardens.
As an added value, in addition to its medicinal applications, The dense, golden foliage of feverfew adds an ornamental and aromatic note to any green space..
Collection and conservation
for purposes therapeutic and cosmetic products The leaves and flowers are primarily used. Some people prefer fresh leaves, as they retain their aroma and essential oils, but they can also be dried and stored in airtight containers.
- Fresh leaves can be frozen, always well packaged due to their intense aroma.
- The dried plant should be stored in a cool, dry place without direct light exposure to prevent the degradation of the active ingredients.
When harvesting, always leave part of the plant standing to ensure its regeneration and the biodiversity of the environment.
Feverfew infusion: traditional preparation
One of the most popular remedies It is the infusion of feverfew, especially recommended for relief from migraines and headaches. It can be prepared alone or combined with other medicinal plants such as basil, marjoram, and rosemary. For this, it is also useful to know the different aromatic plants that enhance its effects.
- Heat the water until it begins to boil.
- Add one teaspoon of the plant mix per cup.
- Cover and let stand for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Filter and drink hot, preferably before main meals.
- You can sweeten it with a pinch of rosemary honey if you wish.
This simple method allows you to take advantage of the preventative and soothing properties of feverfew naturally.
Other names and related species
Feverfew has several names, such as St. Mary's wort, chamomile, chamomile, chamomile or button. It is important to distinguish it from other related species:
- Matricaria chamomilla: also known as German chamomile or common chamomile.
- chamaemelum nobile: Roman chamomile.
- discoid feverfew: wild chamomile.
- Other species like anthemis arvensis (field chamomile) and Anthemis cotula (stinking chamomile) should not be confused in their uses and properties.
The two species most used in phytotherapy and for infusion are matricaria recutita and Tanacetum parthenium.
Side effects, precautions and contraindications
Feverfew is generally safe When used correctly, there are precautions and possible adverse effects to consider:
- Contraindicated in pregnancy: It can stimulate the uterus and cause contractions, so it should not be consumed during pregnancy.
- Not recommended for children under three years of age.
- drug interactionsSpecial caution if taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications or serotonin-regulating drugs. May increase the risk of bleeding.
- Allergic reactionsPeople allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (daisies, chrysanthemums, ragweed) may experience oral or skin irritation or breathing difficulties. Always perform a skin test before topical use.
- Oral irritation: Consuming fresh leaves may cause discomfort or small ulcers in the mouth.
- Mild withdrawal syndrome: After prolonged use, sudden discontinuation may cause headaches, stiffness, anxiety, or insomnia.
Before starting any treatment or if you have any doubts, It is advisable to consult a qualified healthcare professional, especially in cases of chronic illness, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or use of other medications.
Interesting facts and curiosities about feverfew
- Feverfew is known as the “medieval aspirin” due to its extensive use in the treatment of fever and pain before the advent of modern drugs.
- It has been a prized plant since ancient times, with references to its use in classical Greece and in monastic gardens during the Middle Ages.
- It can become invasive in gardens if not controlled, as it self-sows easily.
- The leaves are bitter and can cause irritation in sensitive people if consumed raw.
- Traditional uses include making preparations for washing wounds, treating eczema, and as a natural insect repellent.
- Feverfew essential oil is used in aromatherapy to induce relaxation and emotional balance.
Feverfew It integrates an incredible combination of medicinal benefits, ease of cultivation and ornamental value., a natural, versatile, and affordable option for personal well-being and garden beautification. Its popularity continues to grow in both herbal medicine and natural cosmetics and everyday health products, as long as responsible and personalized use is taken into account.
