Feverfew, a perennial plant native to southeastern Europe and now widespread throughout Europe, North America and Australia, is a member of the sunflower family and has been used for centuries in European folk medicine to treat headaches, arthritis and fevers. Interest in feverfew was renewed in the 1980s when British research of 270 migraine suffers found that 70 per cent of the migraine sufferers experienced relieve after taking an average of two to three fresh feverfew leaves daily. In addition, the feverfew leaves prevented the onset of additional episodes. Feverfew has also used to treat menstrual irregularities, labor difficulties, skin conditions, stomach aches, and asthma. Precautions: Feverfew has some serious side effects that include abdominal pain, indigestion, flatulence, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and nervousness. Chewing raw feverfew leaves can cause mouth ulcers, loss of taste, and swelling of the lips, tongue and mouth. Allergic reactions to feverfew have also been reported. Feverfew may increase bleeding and should not be taken if you have bleeding disorders or are taking blood-thinning medications. Feverfew should not be used in children. NOTE: These descriptions are provided for information purposes only. Before taking any herb or supplement, it is recommended that you consult your health care professional to ensure it is safe for you to take and will not interact with any medications you may be taking.
