Herbs & Herbal Remedies @ Green Papaya

Feverfew has not been shown to cause uterine contractions, but it has a long folk history as a menstruation promoter. Pregnant women should err on the side of caution and not use it.

Feverfew may cause sores inside the mouth. Some people also report abdominal pain.

Feverfew may inhibit blood clotting. Those with clotting disorders and anyone taking anticoagulant medication should consult a physician before using it.

Feverfew suppresses migraines but does not cure them.

When the herb is terminated, the headaches typically return, which means migraine sufferers might wind up taking feverfew for years. To date, long-term use of the herb has caused no problems, but there is no research on its long-term effects.

For otherwise healthy non-pregnant, non-nursing adults who do not have clotting disorders and are not taking anticoagulants, feverfew is considered safe in amounts typically recommended.

Feverfew should be used in medicinal amounts only in consultation with your doctor. If feverfew causes mouth sores or stomach upset, use less or stop using it. Let your doctor know if you experience any unpleasant effects or if the symptoms for which the herb is being used do not improve significantly in two weeks.

Grow Your Headache Medicine

Feverfew is a perennial that reaches 3 feet and has lovely daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and up to 20 white rays.

For personal migraine prevention, a few plants should suffice. Feverfew grows from seeds, but most authorities recommend root cuttings planted when the temperature reaches 70°F. Space plants 18 inches apart. Feverfew does best in partial shade. Compost stimulates better growth. Pinch back flower buds to encourage bushiness. Harvest leaves when they become mature.

Bees dislike feverfew and generally avoid the plant. Don’t plant this herb around other plants requiring bee pollination.

Feverfew can also be maintained indoors year-round as a houseplant.