Tanacetum parthenium, known as feverfew, is a flowering plant in the daisy family, Asteraceae. It may be grown as an ornament, and may be identified by its synonyms, Chrysanthemum parthenium and Pyrethrum parthenium. Having its origin in the Balkans region, it is now distributed worldwide. The plant produces achene fruit, and grows in stony slopes and river beds.
Location and cultivation
Feverfew is native to Eurasia, specifically in the Balkans, Anatolia, and the Caucasus, but cultivation has spread it around the world.
Uses
right|thumb|Leaf of feverfew
thumb|The [[chemical structure of parthenolide]]
Phytochemicals and traditional medicine
Phytochemicals found in feverfew include parthenolide, camphor, and the flavonoids, luteolin, and apigenin. Feverfew has been used in traditional medicine, particularly in Europe, where it is mentioned in an herbal monograph as a safe compound. There is no good evidence for its use in treating migraine headaches or any other clinical condition.
Adverse effects
Long-term use of feverfew followed by abrupt discontinuation may induce a withdrawal syndrome featuring rebound headaches and muscle and joint pains. Feverfew may cause allergic reactions in those allergic to the daisy family, including contact dermatitis or swelling and numbness of the mouth. Much earlier, but less specifically, a text of Hippocrates in the 4th century BCE lists it as useful in treating lesions (On Ulcers 14).