Tanacetum pathenium (formally: Chrysanthemum pathenium
History |
| Feverfew is an easy to grow perennial member of the Daisy family. Feverfew has commonly been used in the treatment of migraine, and to reduce fever. It is also a natural fly repellent – grow close to open doors. Leaves are bruised to release a pungent oil that repels flies. or dry leaves and place in sachets. |
Growing |
| A perennial which can grow up to 1 metre high. Terminal clusters of small, white-petaled daisies with yellow centres, are followed by small seed 3mm long. These seeds, if not picked, will fall and self-seed readily. Propagation can also be done by cuttings or root division. The plant will grow in sun or shade, and adapts to a wide range of soils and climates. An attractive plant when in flower, it is often seen in cottage gardens, but performs equally well grown in a large pot. |
Uses |
| ***Feverfew can affect blood clotting so don’t take if you are on any Warfarin type drugs. Its strong scent can also act as a deterrent to garden pests. Try the leaves in garden sprays. Cut flower stems placed in a vase in the house are long lasting and can also act as a fly repellent. For migraine a couple of leaves eaten in a sandwich are said to help. Don’t chew the leaves on their own as they can cause mouth ulcers. |
