Tanacetum parthenium

Tanacetum parthenium, commonly known as Feverfew, is a flowering plant in the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is a traditional medicinal herb that is commonly used to prevent migraine headaches, and is also occasionally grown for ornament.

Description

The plant is a herbaceous perennial with small, daisy-like flowers and pungent leaves. It grows into a small bush up to around 46 cm (18 in) high with citrus-scented leaves, and is covered by flowers reminiscent of daisies. It spreads rapidly, and they will cover a wide area after a few years.

Distribution and habitat

Tanacetum parthenium is native to the Balkan Peninsula in Eastern Europe, but can be found throughout Europe, North America and Canada. It is now also grown throughout all regions of the United States. It is a common plant that grows along roadsides, fields, waste areas, and along riverbanks.

Uses

Medical uses

Feverfew has been used for centuries in European folk medicine as a remedy for headaches, arthritis, and fevers. The term feverfew derives from the Latin word febrifugia, meaning "fever reducer."

Although the plant has been used for centuries, scientific research into its health benefits is relatively recent. The main active ingredients in feverfew include parthenolide and tanetin. Clinical studies have shown that parthenolide, in particular, can help to mitigate migraine headaches.

Cultivation

Feverfew is a short-lived perennial that blooms between July and October. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is relatively easy to grow from seeds, cuttings, or division. The plant should be divided every few years to maintain its vigor.

See also

• List of beneficial weeds
• List of companion plants
• List of invasive plant species in North America

References

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  Feverfew plant in bloom

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  Leaf of Tanacetum parthenium

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  Chemical structure of Parthenolide