Feverfew Flower - Tanacetum parthenium

Alternative names: Featherfew, ranfarnt, prairie-dock, flirtwort

Parts used: Leaves and flowers

Actions and qualities: Helps relieve migraines, anti-inflammatory, appetite stimulant, regulates menstruation and eases symptoms, offers pain relief.

Specific uses: It can be made into a tea, but the strong bitter taste is a deterrent for most people. It makes a more palatable tincture for that reason. Leaves can be chewed fresh daily as migraine prevention, but it should be eaten with food to prevent sores in the mouth and throat.

Contraindications: Some have allergic reactions from skin contact. Not suitable for pregnant or nursing mothers, or children under two.

History and lore: It has a history of being planted outside of home to prevent disease from entering. Flowers were also traditionally bound to the wrist to draw out pain from the body.