Feverfew: The Pungent Powerhouse You’ll Want in Your Garden

Me and my faithful feverfew — not the sweetest-smelling herb, but one I always keep close for its powerful healing gifts.

I first met feverfew while weeding.

There I was, down on my knees, pulling out what I thought was another cheeky intruder in the front garden when my neighbour passed by and said, “Don’t pull that one out — that’s feverfew. It’s amazing for migraines!”

I remember wrinkling my nose. “But it smells awful!” I replied.

And it does have a pungent, almost bitter scent — not at all sweet or inviting like lavender or chamomile. But over the years, I’ve come to treasure this hardy little plant, and not just for headaches. When we moved to Leeming Garth Manor, I made sure to bring a pot of feverfew with me. I wanted it nearby. And now, if it pops up between paving stones or at the edge of a bed, I let it flourish. It’s earned its place.

Here’s why.

Feverfew Overview

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium, formerly known as Chrysanthemum parthenium) is a bushy, daisy-like perennial from the sunflower family. It’s often mistaken for a common weed, but its healing potential is anything but common. Traditionally, feverfew has been used for everything from fevers and digestive woes to inflammation and migraines.

Parts Used

• Dried flowers and leaves

• Occasionally the bark

Health Benefits of Feverfew

Cardiovascular Support

• May protect against abnormal blood clotting by preventing platelet aggregation

• Can help prevent serotonin-induced constriction of blood vessels

  
  

Digestive Aid

• Soothes indigestion and colitis

• May help eliminate intestinal parasites

  
  

Immune Support and Anti-Inflammatory Actions

• May lower histamine release (great for allergies)

• Traditionally used to reduce fevers

• Contains anti-inflammatory compounds that support those with arthritis and muscle tension

Feverfew in bloom — proof that even the most pungent plants can have a delicate beauty.

Feverfew and Cancer: Nature’s Subtle Strategy

One of the most intriguing areas of research is feverfew’s potential in cancer care — particularly its ability to promote apoptosis, the body's natural process of programmed cell death. This is vital, as cancer cells often avoid this process and continue to grow unchecked.

The active compound parthenolide appears to encourage this self-destruct sequence specifically in unhealthy or abnormal cells. What's more, it's shown selective behaviour — targeting cancerous cells while sparing healthy ones. Research has demonstrated its effects in:

• Colon cancer – slowing growth and aiding apoptosis

• Lung and pancreatic cancer – showing promise in early lab studies

• Acute myeloblastic leukaemia – where parthenolide encourages cancerous white blood cells to die off without affecting the healthy cells

This doesn’t mean feverfew is a treatment — far from it. But it is a beautiful reminder that our Creator has provided many gentle tools in nature that work with the body, not against it. Feverfew is one of those herbs quietly supporting the immune system in its intelligent defence mechanisms.

Feverfew's claim to fame is its ability to fight migraines.

Relief for Migraines and Headaches

This is feverfew’s claim to fame. In some studies, up to 70% of migraine sufferers reported fewer and less intense episodes after regular use.[1] Parthenolide is again the key player, helping to prevent the release of serotonin and inflammation-related compounds that trigger migraines. It also reduces muscle tension and nerve irritation that can contribute to recurring headaches.

Respiratory Support

• May help with the common cold

• Eases general inflammation in the respiratory tract

Other Compounds in Feverfew

It’s rich in:

• Minerals: Iron, manganese, potassium, zinc, selenium, and more

• Polyphenols: Including apigenin, luteolin, quercetagetin

• Terpenes: Especially sesquiterpene lactones like parthenolide

• Volatile oils: Borneol and camphor

How Much Should You Use? [1]

If you’re using it therapeutically:

For migraines or headaches:

• Acute relief: Up to 1,500 mg (3 x 500 mg capsules) over two hours

• Prevention: 500 mg daily for 2–3 weeks, followed by a break to avoid developing tolerance

Choose a product that’s standardised for 0.2–2.0% parthenolide content for best results.

Cautions

• Avoid if pregnant — it may trigger uterine contractions

• Not suitable for anyone allergic to plants in the daisy family

• Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any herbal regimen, especially if you’re on medication

My pot of feverfew that has spawn a generation of baby feverfews

Final Thoughts

Feverfew is not the flashiest herb in the garden. Its scent might turn you away. But beneath that pungent exterior lies a powerhouse of potential. It’s one of those faithful friends I’ve come to trust — and while I don’t need it every day, I’m grateful it’s close by when I do.

If you’ve got a patch of garden or a big old pot near the kitchen door, consider planting a little feverfew. Let it root, bloom, and perhaps remind you that the strongest remedies don’t always come in fancy packaging. Sometimes, they smell a bit odd and bloom right under your nose.

Bibliography

[1] Green Medicine Encylopedia SCIENCE-BASED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF NUTRITION AND NATURAL MEDICINE; https://www.greenmedicineencyclopedia.com