Feverfew

Transplanting:

To transplant feverfew to the ground or a larger area, ensure that:

• The hole is made at least as wide as the plant pot, and
• the depth of the hole is such that the top of the soil from the feverfew plant is level with the surface soil of the ground or larger area.
• It is advised not to remove much of the roots from the feverfew when transplanting unless you notice extreme root bound. If the plant (has extreme root bound) has lots of roots that are knotted up particularly at the bottom of the pot, you can cut under 30% of the roots, primarily at the bottom of the pot, and also remove some of the older leaves if the plant has lots of leaves.
• Ensure that feverfew gets lots of water shortly after transplanting to lessen the effects of plant shock.

Light Conditions:

• Full Sun:
  Preferably place feverfew in a location that receives 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Feverfew thrives in sunny locations but may suffer in extreme heat.
• Partial Shade:
  In our climate, feverfew may grow well with 3 to 6 hours of sunlight per day, primarily morning sun.

Soil:

• Moist, well-drained soil that can be either average or rich in nutrients. It grows in almost all types of soils, preferably with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, other than acidic soils.
• The plant has been reported to grow along roadsides, rocky slopes, mountain scrubs, walls, fields, waste areas and edges of forests.
• Mulch (such as grass clippings and wood chips) can be added to the surface of the soil to retain moisture and keep down weeds.

Watering Frequency:

• Water the soil primarily when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Feverfew is sensitive to drought so watering should be such that the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Amendments and Fertiliser:

• Feverfew is regarded as an invasive weed outside of its native region and as a result, amendments and fertiliser should not be necessary.
• However, if the soil lacks nutrients or organic matter, apply a balanced fertiliser during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
• If you notice that the plant appears to wither, monitor the lighting conditions, the soil moisture (in particular) and whether the plant is root bound.

Pruning:

• Prune (deadhead) flowers, stems or leaves when they appear to wilt, look diseased or turn brown.
• Pruning can aid in stimulating new growth, continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding.
• Divide overcrowded clumps every few years to maintain plant vigour.

Parthenolide

Feverfew offers a wide range of benefits across ornamental, culinary, and medicinal domains. Harvested at flowering and dried for preservation, its leaves and flowers are primarily used for their medicinal properties. Feverfew is recognised for its anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, and anticancer effects, attributed to its active constituent, parthenolide. Additionally, it possesses antispasmodic, aperient (laxative), carminative (flatulence relieving), emmenagogue (promotes menstrual discharge), sedative, stomachic (good for gastric digestion), vasodilator and vermifuge (dewormer) qualities, making it valuable for various health concerns like headaches, arthritis, digestive, menstrual and rheumatism issues. Notably, feverfew is considered prophylactic against certain types of headaches and aids in menstrual regulation. Its versatile applications extend beyond medicine, as it adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and can be used in culinary endeavours. With its rich history of use and diverse therapeutic properties, feverfew stands as a multifaceted herb with much to offer.

Entire Plant -

• When incorporated into foods, the plant imparts an aromatic bitterness.
• Brewing a tea with the entire plant offers relief from arthritis, colds, flatulence (gas) and headaches.
• For external use, immersing swollen feet in an infusion can alleviate inflammation, while a tincture serves as a remedy for bruises.

Leaves -

• Some records state that chewing one (1) to four (4) leaves per day is effective in the treatment of some migraine headaches.

Flowers -

• Dried flowers are versatile, serving as a base for herbal teas or enhancing the flavour of pastries.
• They can also be repurposed as a natural insecticide by steeping one (1) cup of dried flowers in one (1) litre of hot, soapy water for an hour. After straining, allow the mixture to cool before application.

Essential Oils -

• The plant yields an essential oil cherished in perfumery.

Pollinator Plant -

In the past, feverfew was specifically listed as a febrifuge to relieve fevers but has been noted to be not as effective as originally thought.

Avoid consuming fresh leaves as it may cause dermatitis and mouth ulcers.

Women who are pregnant should refrain from consuming out of caution.

It is advised that you consult with your physician before taking any herbal medicine.