History: The ancient Greek physicians prescribed feverfew for menstrual and birth-related problems. Some consider its common name to be a corruption of the Latin word febrifugia, a reference to the plant's former use as a fever-reducing medicine, or "febrifuge". Feverfew's later reputation as a fever remedy in Europe `nay have been due more to its name than to any actual healing properties. Many people planted the strong smelling herb around their houses in hopes of warding off malaria by purifying the air. For a time it was associated with the successful malaria treatment quinine, even picking up the name "wild quinine." Since the seventeenth century feverfew has been prescribed for headaches, and it is in this area that the herb has acquired most of its modern acclaim.

Modern Uses: Feverfew has come to be used to treat most of the same disorders treated by aspirin, including migraine headaches, fever, and arthritis. Its leaves are rich in a group of chemicals called sesquiterpene lactones. These bitter compounds have been have been found to produce a variety of beneficial effects. They inhibit prostaglandin synthesis (which leads to smooth muscle contraction), decrease the rate of platelet aggregation blood clotting), inhibit histamine release from immune cells, and have even been found to have mild sedative properties. Feverfew also contains a parthenolide component, and some researchers have described a mildly euphoric state resulting from the serotonin inhibiting action caused by this chemical. Feverfew infusions have also been found to act as a nervine tonic, offering helpful benefits in cases of hysteria. Feverfew's most popular use is as a headache reliever. This effect is most likely due to the herb's blood clot inhibiting action (platelet aggregation is thought to play a role in some forms of migraine) and the anti-inflammatory and antihistamine (histamines create inflammation and constrict blood vessels) properties of the prostaglandins. Others have found feverfew to be effective in treating high blood pressure, digestive disorders (acting much like its close relative, chamomile, in calming the smooth muscles of the digestive tract), and in relieving menstrual cramps. The herb is a good source of niacin, and contains other trace minerals such as magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and thiamin.