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Feverfew leaves and flowers

Feverfew leaves and flowers

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

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Dandelion Root Products The leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant, are used fresh or dried in teas, capsules, or extracts. Try the Dandelion Way
Hoodia Kalahari Bushmen have traditionally eaten hoodia stems to reduce their hunger and thirst during long hunts. Alternative way to loose weight!
Immune System Supplements Astragalus root is used to support and enhance the immune system. Astragalus has also been used for heart disease. Herbal Alternative Health

Feverfew

The herb Feverfew as an alternative herbal remedy for fevers, headaches, stomach aches, toothaches and insect bites. - Originally a plant native to the Balkan mountains of Eastern Europe, feverfew now grows throughout Europe, North America, and South America.

Common Names--feverfew, bachelor's buttons, featherfew

Latin Names--Tanacetum parthenium, Chrysanthemum parthenium Picture of Feverfew

Feverfew (Tanecetum parthenium) is a well-known herb and one of the most widely respected in the prophylactic (preventative) treatment of migraine and chronic headache. There are many clinical studies to support its effectiveness insignificantly reducing or completely eliminating the occurrence and the severity of chronic headache and migraine. Scientific research has demonstrated that Feverfew contains a range of compounds called sesquiterpene lactones, the principle ingredient being parthenolide. Parthenolide has been scientifically shown to prevent excessive clumping of blood platelets and to reduce the release of certain pain inducing chemicals and inflammatory compounds. It has also been shown to make smooth muscle in the walls of cerebral blood vessels less reactive to vaso-constrictors - thereby relaxing constricted blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the brain.

What Feverfew Is Used For

Feverfew has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy for fevers, headaches, stomach aches, toothaches, insect bites, infertility, and problems with menstruation and labor during childbirth.
Recently, feverfew has been used for migraine headaches and rheumatoid arthritis.
Feverfew has also been used for psoriasis, allergies, asthma, tinnitus (ringing or roaring sounds in the ears), dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

Herbal Remedy Products with Feverfew as part of the ingredients

MiGone Plus™ - Natural herbal remedy to relieve all types of headaches including migraines and ocular migraines, plus reduce anxiety and muscle tension
- Prevents migraines and chronic headaches
- Stops tension headaches before they start
- Reduces muscle tension and spasms
- Relieves the symptoms of arthritis
- Relaxes and reduces anxiety and tension

How Feverfew Is Used

The dried leaves--and sometimes flowers and stems--of feverfew are used to make supplements, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. *The leaves are sometimes eaten fresh.

What the Science Says about Feverfew

Some research suggests that feverfew may be helpful in preventing migraine headaches; however, results have been mixed and more evidence is needed from well-designed studies.
One study found that feverfew did not reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in women whose symptoms did not respond to conventional medicines. It has been suggested that feverfew could help those with milder symptoms.
There is not enough evidence available to assess whether feverfew is beneficial for other uses.
NCCAM-funded researchers are studying ways to standardize feverfew; that is, to prepare it in a consistent manner. Standardized preparations could be used in future studies of feverfew for migraines.

Side Effects and Cautions of Feverfew

No serious side effects have been reported for feverfew. Side effects can include canker sores, swelling and irritation of the lips and tongue, and loss of taste.
Less common side effects can include nausea, digestive problems, and bloating.
People who take feverfew for a long time and then stop taking it may have headaches, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, stiff muscles, and joint pain.
Women who are pregnant should not use feverfew because it may cause the uterus to contract, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature delivery.
People can have allergic reactions to feverfew. Those who are allergic to other members of the daisy family (which includes ragweed and chrysanthemums) are more likely to be allergic to feverfew.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

News About Feverfew

Sydney J. Tanner: Feverfew plant has many medicinal uses

Source:http://chippewa.com/lifestyles/local/sydney-j-tanner-feverfew-plant-has-many-medicinal-uses/article_17d95e05-46fa-5eff-ad71-bfa134443bfa.html

By Sydney J. Tanner (The Herald)

The daisy and chrysanthemum family (Asteraceae) has some wonderful plants in it. One of them has hairy, furrowed stalks that hold small, corymb, thumbmail-sized, white flowers with bright yellow centers. The fern-like leaves are pinnatifid.

Tanacetum parthenium is a sun-loving, drought-tolerant, semi-perennial herb that is native to Eurasia. European colonists brought it to this country, as an herb, when they came here. It grows into a small (2 1/2 foot) bush. The common name for this plant is feverfew. This is a version of the original name “febrifuge.”

Other names it has been associated with are: featherfew (an Anglicized version of the spoken French), bachelor’s buttons (They are not related at all. Bachelor’s buttons are actually cornflowers. But, the little feverfew flower gets used in jacket boutonnieres.), flirtwort, and camomille grande (Chamomile is not really related. However, it is a gentle herb compared to the far more powerful feverfew, thus the grand.)

The Tanacetum genus has about 160 species, and most of the flowers look a lot alike. Costmary, tansy, painted lady (coccineum), alecost, Dalmation daisy, painted daisy, and others. These plants have insect-repellent properties. Mosquitoes and other flying insects stay away from it, but not angry wasps or most bees. It deters aphids. Many gardeners plant feverfew in pots near entry and doorways. Deer and moles do not like to eat feverfew. It makes a great barrier or border plant. Inside, dried feverfew repels moths. Because of the strength of the repellent, it is a good idea not to plant feverfew near the vegetable or fruit garden. The food plants need pollination.

For medicinal use, all aerial parts of the plant are used. For thousands of years, the plant has been used to get rid of headaches, as a pain killer during labor and delivery, and to lower fevers, thus the name. This plant is big medicine.

There is much research on the medicinal properties of feverfew. In the 1980s, it was widely prescibed for migraines. I have personal experience with it. It works. There are also warnings associated with using the herb medicinally. Pregnant and nursing women should not use it. As with any new medication check with your physician for side effects and drug interaction. Feverfew needs to be used with wisdom and skill.

To harvest feverfew plants for medicinal use, cut them in full flower. If just harvesting leaves, do not take more than a third of each plant’s offering. For bouquets, the same rule applies. Try not to cut more than a third of the entire plant. The leaves can be dried as well as chopped stems and flowers, depending on what it’s going to be used for. Use the dried matter within six months.

Most gardeners have no idea of the historical value of the pretty little rays of flowers. Feverfew blooms between June and October. The flowers do not smell “pretty.” The scent is strong, and has been described as clean and medicinal. The flowers dry very well. They are used in floral arrangements and summer bouquets. With care, you should be able to get two cuttings of flowers from each plant, during the flowering season.

Feverfew is usually planted either as a perennial or as an annual. If it is planted as an annual, the stalks and flowers are cut (to use fresh) before going to seed. As a perennial, it is hardy to -20 degrees. It prefers full sun, but tolerates some shade. Feverfew likes a well-drained loamy soil, but will grow in many areas. Some gardeners like to keep feverfew in containers and pots so it won’t wander around the garden. If the flowers are cut or deadheaded, this should not be a problem. Otherwise, feverfew can be a bit pushy and reseed itself anywhere the soil is willing.

Individual plants can live three or more years. The older plants die off in late summer after blooming profusely. Propagation occurs three ways — by seed, by cuttings and/or root dividing. To collect feverfew seeds, allow the heads to dry on the plants. Bag the head. Cut the stem. Shake the seeds from the head into the bag.

If starting your feverfew seeds inside, remember it needs about 8 weeks to germinate and get started, so start early. The seed can be sown directly into the garden and covered with minimal soil. When “up” thin the tiny plants to 11-15 inches so they’ll have some room. The plants emerges in a lovely green rosette and can spread to be about a foot in diameter.

Stem cuttings can be taken in the late spring or summer. Fill small pots with damp sand mixed with potting soil. Cut healthy stems 4-5 inches in length from the base of the plant with the heel of the plant still attached. Strip the leaves from the bottom and dip the stem into rooting hormone. Stick the lower ends into the soil mixture. Keep the soil damp and the pots in a warm, shaded place. It will take about 3 weeks for the stems to form roots. After it has rooted and new green starts to grow, you can transplant it.

Dividing feverfew roots is best done either in spring or fall. With a sharp shovel, cut the rosette crown straight down, into three to five parts. Transplant the cut portions at least a foot and a half from each other.

Low maintenance feverfew likes moderate water. Don’t overwater it. Snails and slugs are the only pests that bother feverfew. By keeping the watering level, the pest problem can be minimalized. A good companion planting near feverfew would be any of the mints. Once planted, feverfew does not like to be moved. It does not need to be fertilized, but mulching during especially hard winters is a good idea.

Feverfew has many lovely cultivars. Some have double flowers. Some have yellow to gold foliage. Some are dwarf in size. Some have pompom-like flower heads, or feathery petals.

5 Incredible Benefits Of Feverfew Tea

Source:http://livelighter.org/5-incredible-benefits-of-feverfew-tea/

By Vineetha Reddy

Have you heard of Feverfew tea? Me neither. So I’m happy to present today’s guest blogger, Vineetha Reddy, with her introduction to a little known tea!

Feverfew, also known as Tanacetum parthenium, bachelor’s buttons or featherfew, is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries for treating a variety of problems. While it is most prominently known for the treatment of migraines, it also offers a whole lot of other benefits.

Feverfew is now gaining popularity among tea drinkers and especially with health nuts, as the leaves are infused with all the natural goodness of the herb. This process of making tea out of the herb has also made it more accessible to people.

Below, we’ve listed five of the most incredible benefits that this tea has to offer. Keep reading to find out how just a cup a day of this tea can positively affect your life.

1. Chronic Stress Reliever

Anyone who has suffered from anxiety or stress will tell you how extremely challenging and unpleasant experience it can be. However, feverfew can be considered a natural aid for this problem. Consumption of feverfew tea during stressful periods can keep you calm and in control.

2. Anti-Inflammatory:

Feverfew has anti-inflammatory properties. For people afflicted with arthritis or chronic joint pains, regular consumption of feverfew will help ease the pain and lead to healthier joints.

3. Migraine Reliever:

Perhaps the most famous benefit of feverfew is its effectiveness in reducing headaches and migraines. It does this by preventing build-ups in capillaries and blood vessels. By relieving the stress placed on these vessels, feverfew helps get rid of headaches and migraines instantly.

4. Fever Prevention and Treatment:

Another common use of feverfew has been to help prevent and get rid of fevers. It helps your body perspire more, meaning you release all the unhealthy toxins from your body. When combined with its anti-inflammatory properties, you can see why drinking a cup of this a day is a very good idea.

5. Healthy Heart

Feverfew can prevent the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for increasing blood pressure, in your blood stream. It also prevents blockages from developing. Because this results in lowered blood pressure, your cardiovascular system is in better health. This reduces the chances of heart attacks and atherosclerosis.

Other Benefits:

• Parthenolide present in feverfew has been shown to induce apoptosis in certain cancer cells, destroying them and preventing them from spreading.

• It can help improve skin health; studies are ongoing as to the extent of its use in this field.

• It can also help with menstrual irregularities, nausea, dizziness, and even asthma.

• A word of caution, pregnant women are recommended to stay away from it. Studies are currently being carried out to gauge its effects on pregnancy.

Wow! Were you aware of just how many benefits this wonder herb has? A cup of this tea early in the morning will ensure you stay healthy.

Feverfew Benefits and Uses for Skin, Hair and Health

Source:http://www.stylishwalks.com/feverfew-benefits-uses-skin-hair-health/

(Nikitha, Stylish Walks)

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is an amazing herb with lots of benefits. It was called ‘Parthenium’ by the ancient Greeks because according to the Greek legend, this herb was used for saving the life of a person who had fallen from the Parthenon. Parthenon is a temple in Athens.

Feverfew is commonly known as wild chamomile. It belongs to the sunflower family ad is also known by many other names like featherfew, because of its feather like leaves. Europeans have been using this herb for a long time to treat various diseases and ailments. The leaves of feverfew plants are still used to make medicines. Feverfew is known for its health benefits as well as its benefits for the skin and hair.

Benefits of Feverfew for Skin:

Controls Skin redness and swelling:

Feverfew is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it great for reducing inflammation of the skin. You can use this herb for reducing swelling and the redness of the skin. It also prevents them from occurring in future. You can also use this herb for getting rid of ringworm, patches and scratches.

Promote healthy skin:

Feverfew tea is loaded with antioxidants. By consuming feverfew tea regularly and in moderate amounts helps in protecting your body from the actions of harmful free radicals, which lead to cell damage. The anti-inflammatory properties of this herb help in renewing and revitalizing your skin, so that your skin is made healthy and young from inside.

Benefits of Feverfew for Hair:

Stops hair fall:

Feverfew is very beneficial for reducing hair fall. This is because of its anti-inflammatory properties. People using this herb regularly have experienced a great reduction in hair fall. It is not recommended that you use feverfew herb directly on your scalp. This can be risky ad it can lead to side effects. So, the best way is t drink feverfew tea in moderate amounts. This helps in stopping hair fall and also keeps you away from baldness.

Health and Medicinal Benefits of Feverfew:

Arthritis:

Feverfew herbs contain certain compounds in them, which help in providing you relief from the pain and inflammation that you experience when you suffer from arthritis. It is also good for getting relief from fever.

Blood pressure:

Feverfew is effective for lowering the blood pressure. This is because it has the ability to reduce the actions of prostaglandins, which is a hormone responsible for causing inflammation in blood vessels.

Kills cancer cells:

This amazing herb has the power to kill cancer cells. The active compounds present in this herb helps in killing the cancer cells. Research conducted a few years ago shows that it is more effective for killing cancer cells than the chemo drugs that are so expensive.

Menstrual cramps:

You get relief from menstrual cramps by using feverfew. The reason is that this herb helps in restricting the release of a hormone called prostaglandin. It is this hormone that causes pain and irritation that you experience with PMS.

Migraine:

According to studies made, feverfew is very effective for decreasing the attacks of migraine as well as for reducing its frequency. It is seen to be more effective than the anti-inflammatory pills that you use for treating migraine, like aspirin etc. Feverfew prevents inflammations and blood vessel spasms, which are the root causes of migraine attacks.

You can have feverfew tea to teat migraines. If you do not like its bitter taste, you can have freeze dried capsules of this herb instead. A daily dose of 250 mg is enough for treating migraine. You can also grow feverfew plant and consume its leaves.

Relieves nerve pain:

Feverfew has the ability to reduce pain and inflammation that you feel in your body. This is because it prevents the release of inflammatory substances like serotonin. It provides you relief from pain just like any pharmaceutical pain relievers and fever-reducing medicines, but it has no lasting side effects like the other medicines.

So, now that you have seen some of the benefits of feverfew, try to include it in your diet and enjoy its benefits. If you are wondering how you can get hold of this plant, go to the market and ask. It is flooded with feverfew supplements, pills, capsules and tinctures. You can try them. But the safest way it use it is in the form of tea. This way you will get all the benefits of the plant. Although feverfew is safe for most people, there some side effects of this plant that you should know. They are as follows:

Side Effects of Feverfew:

• Some of the common side effects of feverfew are bloating, diarrhoea, heartburn, stomach upset, vomiting, constipation, flatulence and nausea.

• Some of the reported side effects of feverfew also include tiredness, weight gain, rash, stiffness in the joints, pounding heart and trouble in sleeping.

• Pregnant and breast feeding women should avoid consuming feverfew.

• Although chewing fresh leaves of feverfew is very beneficial, it can cause swelling of the lips, mouth and tongue in a few people. It can also temporarily remove the sense of taste and cause mouth sores.

In spite of the side effects of feverfew, it is used by many and is very beneficial. Just keep in mind that you do not over-consume it. Studies made have shown that consuming 50 to 100 mg of feverfew extract a day is enough to provide you relief from the attacks of migraine headaches. If you are suffering from any other ailments and problems, you will have to consult a doctor and take his opinion. If you prefer feverfew tea, make sure that you follow the instructions given on the pack.

7 Medicinal Plants to Use if You're Ever Lost in the Woods

Source:https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2017/04/7-medicinal-plants-to-know-about-if-youre-ever-los.html

By Lauren Leising

Like so many things on this earth, there is more to most plants than meets the eye. While something that looks like a tasty berry may actually be poison in disguise, a simple wildflower could really be a powerful anti-inflammatory. And those herbs thrown somewhat haphazardly into a meal may also be effective in treating digestive issues.

Knowing the uses for plants we come into contact with is important no matter where we are, but here are just a few that, if you find yourself lost in the woods and in need of medical attention, can substitute for some common medicines.

Feverfew

Easily mistaken for a simple wildflower, feverfew has a longvlist of documented medicinal uses, the most well-known of which is migraine treatment. Native to Asia and the Balkans, the leaves of the now wide-spread plant are dried and used in anti-inflammatory medicines to treat rheumatism, arthritis, swelling and bruising. It is also a natural serotonin inhibitor which makes it effective in alleviating tension and anxiety.

Sage

Not only is sage a fantastic herb to add to your next pot of spaghetti sauce, it is widely considered to be the most useful herb. It acts as an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-fungal, digestive aid, cramp reliever and treatment for colds and phlegm. It can also be made into a salve for cuts and burns and reduces diarrhea. Oh, and it was also used as a preservative for meat before the invention of the refrigerator. It's easy to see why sage is called the most valuable herb in the world.

Blackberries

Not surprisingly, these antioxidant and vitamin-packed berries are also useful for healing a variety of ailments. Native Americans use every part of the fruit, from root to berry, to treat common sicknesses and to treat cuts and inflammation in the mouth. The leaves and roots are an effective treatment for dysentery and diarrhea, while also making an effective anti-inflammatory and astringent. That's a lot of power for one little berry.

Tansy

Like many medicinal plants and herbs, tansy has not only been used for health purposes, but also in cooking. Found throughout Europe, this plant is considered an old-world aster and remedy that was used to flavor beer and stews while also proving to be an effective bug repellant. Rubbing the leaves on your skin can help protect against pesky insects and can also be used to treat worms. However, this is one plant that should not be used in excess, as it can be poisonous in large quantities. It's best to just stick to using it as an all-natural bug spray.

California Poppy

The California poppy, an iconic opioid plant, has a variety of uses stretching from anxiety reliever, to pain reliever. Often the plant is made into a tea to treat nerves and tension, though stewing its stems, roots and other safe parts in water for a few hours and leaving it overnight to soak makes a much stronger remedy that can be used to treat pain.

Sweet Marjoram

Often interchanged with oregano in cooking, sweet marjoram has been used for centuries. The ancient Greeks called it the "Joy of the Mountain" because of its delicate smell, good flavor and medicinal capabilities. This herb is effective in aiding digestion, acting as an anti-fungal, antibacterial and disinfectant.

Ginger

Though typically used for cooking, ginger is an incredibly versatile root and has a wide variety of medicinal uses. Known for its ability to treat nausea, ginger is often chewed or made into tea for long car trips, airplane rides or voyages across choppy seas. In addition, it has been proven to have antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for treating digestion issues.

Growing Feverfew Herb In The Garden

Source:https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/feverfew/growing-feverfew-herb.htm

By Jackie Rhoades

The feverfew plant (Tanacetum parthenium) is actually a species of chrysanthemum that has been grown in herb and medicinal gardens for centuries. Read on to learn more about feverfew plants.

About Feverfew Plants

Also known as featherfew, featherfoil, or bachelor’s buttons, the feverfew herb was used in the past to treat a variety of conditions such as headaches, arthritis, and as the name implies, fever. Parthenolide, the active ingredient in the feverfew plant, is being actively developed for pharmaceutical application.

Looking like a small bush that grows to about 20 inches high, the feverfew plant is native to central and southern Europe and grows well over most of the United States. It has small, white, daisy-like flowers with bright yellow centers. Some gardeners claim the leaves are citrus scented. Others say the scent is bitter. All agree that once the feverfew herb takes hold, it can become invasive.

Whether your interest lies in medicinal herbs or simply its decorative qualities, growing feverfew can be a welcome addition to any garden. Many garden centers carry feverfew plants or it can be grown from seed. The trick is knowing how. To grow feverfew from seed you can start indoors or out.

How to Grow Feverfew

Seeds for growing feverfew herb are readily available through catalogs or found in the seed racks of local garden centers. Don’t be confused by its Latin designation, as it is known by both Tanacetum parthenium or Chrysanthemum parthenium. The seeds are very fine and most easily planted in small peat pots filled with damp, loamy soil. Sprinkle a few seeds into the pot and tap the bottom of the pot on the counter to settle the seeds into the soil. Spray water to keep the seeds moist as poured water may dislodge the seeds. When placed in a sunny window or under a grow light, you should see signs of the feverfew seeds germinating in about two weeks. When the plants are about 3 inches tall, plant them, pot and all, into a sunny garden spot and water regularly until the roots take hold.

If you decide on growing feverfew directly in the garden, the process is much the same. Sow the seed in early spring while the ground is still cool. Sprinkle the seeds on top of the soil and lightly tamp to make sure they make full contact. Don’t cover the seeds, as they need sunlight to germinate. As with the indoor seeds, water by misting so you don’t wash the seeds away. Your feverfew herb should sprout in about 14 days. When the plants are 3 to 5 inches, thin to 15 inches apart.

If you choose to grow your feverfew plant somewhere other than an herb garden, the only requirement is that the spot be sunny. They grow best in loamy soil, but aren’t fussy. Indoors, they tend to get leggy, but they flourish in outdoor containers. Feverfew is a perennial, so cut it back to the ground after frost and watch for it to regrow in the spring. It re-seeds fairly easily, so you might find yourself giving away new plants within a couple of years. The feverfew herb blooms between July and October.

Herbal Treatment for Migraines

Source:http://www.masala.tv/herbal-treatment-for-migraines/

(Masala TV)

Herbal Treatment for Migraines

Millions of people experience migraine in Pakistan. Headaches are the result of mental stress, physical strain, food allergies and symptom of disease. Symptoms include migraine headache, light and sound sensitivity and nausea. Migraine is a chronic condition in some people and may last for days in severe cases. There is no cure for migraine, although prescription medications and over-the-counter treatments provide some pain relief. Herbal remedies are profitable and a free alternative of organic chemicals for traditional medicine. Various herbs are thought to treat and prevent migraines, including Butterbur, devil’s claw or Harpagophytum procumbens, feverfew (قرحا عاقر), ginko biloba, willowbark (چھال) or Salix and ginger (کدرا). Several studies show the effectiveness of feverfew and Burr in the treatment of headaches. Most of these herbs are available in health food stores or alternatives over the Internet. Herbal supplements are not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing and a physician should be consulted before starting any supplement regimen of protection against drug interactions and allergies.

Prepare Feverfew and dosage recommended

Feverfew or Tanacetum parthenium is a plant that has been used as a medicament for hundreds of years. The herb is sold in capsules and tablets as well as tea bags and liquid extract. Feverfew leaves can be harvested fresh from the garden and eaten with other foods or alone, although some people find that it causes numbness in the mouth. It takes 6 weeks of daily use, at least once a day to see some relief of symptoms noticeable. Prepare a tea using a feverfew ounce of leaves to 2 cups of hot water. By using leaf extract, use about 250 mcg (micrograms) per day.

Burr Preparations and Dosage

A sunflower family member, Butterbur is a small shrub flowering. Because butterbur contains toxins that can affect the liver, only statements that are free from pyrolizidine alkaloid (PA) are recommended. The professional preparation of Butterbur is not recommended. The extract is available in the form of gel capsule 50 to 75 mg twice daily is the usual dose. Burr is considered both for the prevention of migraines, as well as a natural treatment. Butterbur root is made into an essential oil, but not usually a tea. Due to the potential toxic effects of Butterbur, a doctor should be consulted before use.

Feverfew: A Natural Remedy for Migraine Relief

Source:http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-you/home-remedies/feverfew-a-natural-remedy-for-migraine-relief/

(Best Health)

If you're prone to migraines, you may have fewer with feverfew. It has long been considered a go-to remedy for head pain'and here's why

Feverfew can remedy your migraine symptoms Feverfew is a home remedy used medicinally to prevent and treat the symptoms of migraines. How feverfew works for migraines may be its effect on serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical that occurs naturally in the body and abnormal levels of serotonin are associated with migraines. Test-tube studies conducted in 1985 at the University Hospital in Nottingham, England, showed that an active ingredient in feverfew, parthenolide, inhibits the clumping-together of platelets in the bloodstream, which in turn discourages the release of excess serotonin.

How to use feverfew for migraine prevention

If you’re trying out feverfew for migraine prevention, look for a product with a standardized amount of parthenolide, the herb’s active ingredient. Follow the package directions carefully. Make sure you store feverfew capsules in a cool, dry place, as levels of parthenolide can drop as much as 25 percent at room temperature in 6 months. If you are allergic to plants in the daisy family, which includes ragweed and chrysanthemums, be careful, as you could be allergic to feverfew.

People who take feverfew for a long time and then stop taking it may experience difficulty sleeping, headaches, joint pain, nervousness and stiff muscles.

Modern research and studies on feverfew

A 1985 study in the British Medical Journal put feverfew in the spotlight. Researchers at the City of London (now National) Migraine Clinic asked migraine sufferers already using the herb to stop; some then started taking the herb again while others were given a placebo. The placebo group experienced more migraine headaches and more intense pain. A larger, 1988 study from the University of Nottingham, published in the journal The Lancet, confirmed feverfew’s ability to reduce the severity and frequency of migraines’by about 24 percent.

Feverfew may help fight cystic fibrosis

Researchers from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland found in a 2007 test-tube and mouse study that parthenolide’s anti-inflammatory action could one day be harnessed to ease the excessive inflammation that leads to lung destruction and death in people with cystic fibrosis. Parthenolide inhibited the release of an inflammatory chemical called interleukin-8’and might in the future be the basis for a safe, effective drug for this serious medical condition.

Fewer known benefits of Feverfew

Source:http://www.valuefood.info/2987/fewer-known-benefits-of-feverfew/

(Value Food)

Well known for its ability to prevent headaches and migraine, feverfew is a herb that has been widely used in herbal medicines for treating many ailments. It has been found to be an effective remedy for treating arthritis, fever, high blood pressure, colitis and many other health conditions. It has a long history of being used in traditional medicine as well as folk medicine, especially in European and Greek herbal therapy. Although it is available in the capsule form, consuming fresh or dried leaves is considered to produce better results. Feverfew tea is one of the herbal teas that has been used for a long time as it provides a wide variety of health benefits. It also contains various active compounds in addition to many vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.

Given below are some of the important benefits offered by feverfew:

Feverfew for migraine and headaches

According to research, feverfew may help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Unlike other medications, this herb actually addresses the root cause of the pain and so it may even offer faster and effective results than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as aspirin. The pain relieving effects of feverfew can be attributed to the presence of certain active ingredients in it. These ingredients inhibit the release of serotonin and prostaglandins, two inflammatory amines that are thought to contribute to migraines. Feverfew prevents inflammation and the constriction of blood vessels that may cause headaches. Studies suggest that taking dried feverfew leaf capsules daily may reduce migraines in people suffering from chronic migraine. It is important to take feverfew regularly in order to get the maximum benefits of this herb against migraines.

Feverfew eases menstrual cramps

Menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea is a type of pain felt in the lower abdomen during the menstrual period of a woman. It is caused by the release of hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins during each menstrual period. These substances are associated with pain and inflammation. As mentioned before, feverfew has the ability to inhibit the release of prostaglandins, thereby acting as a great remedy for easing menstrual cramps. Taking feverfew during menstrual period is therefore recommended to get immense relief from menstrual cramps.

Feverfew provides relief from arthritis symptoms

For people suffering from arthritis, feverfew can bring amazing relief from the symptoms such as pain and inflammation. The active constituents of this herb inhibit the release of substances that can contribute to these symptoms. These ingredients in feverfew reduce inflammation by preventing blood platelets from producing inflammatory substances. They also reduce the release of prostaglandins, thus lowering pain and inflammation.

Feverfew may fight cancer

In addition to analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, feverfew has also been found to have anti-cancer effects. Parthenolide is an important ingredient in this herb and research suggests that this substance may play a major role in treating cancer. Studies have found that parthenolide has the ability to inhibit the growth of various types of cancers such as breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, colon cancer and leukemia. The mechanism of action of this herb is that it depletes glutathione in the cancer cells, causing cell death while leaving healthy cells unaffected. In vitro studies suggest that parthenolide induces various activities that produces anti-proliferative effects.

Feverfew reduces anxiety and stress

Feverfew has been found to be effective in treating stress and anxiety. It calms the nerves of the mind and offers a calming sensation. Drinking a cup of warm feverfew tea before going to bed helps to calm your nerves and allows you have a better sleep. People suffering from chronic stress should consider taking feverfew on a regular basis.

Feverfew stimulates appetite

For people trying to gain weight, feverfew is a great remedy as it helps induce hunger by stimulating the activity of certain hormones. While this herb may not be ideal for those who are on a weight loss diet, it is definitely beneficial for those looking for natural ways to gain weight.

Feverfew improves respiratory health

Feverfew has calming and soothing properties, which is very helpful for treating respiratory problems. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory effects of this herb help in reducing inflammation and irritation of the respiratory tract, thus offering relief from conditions like cough and asthma. Feverfew relaxes the respiratory tracts and helps ease these symptoms as well as improve the overall health of the respiratory system.

Feverfew promotes skin health

The anti-inflammatory nature of feverfew is highly beneficial for the skin as it helps redness and inflammation of the skin. Therefore, it is particularly effective in the treatment of skin problems like acne, pimples, sunburn and rosacea. The extract obtained from this herb has been found to have high concentrations of antioxidants, which help protect against free radicals that cause skin damage and early aging.

Feverfew prevents hair loss

In addition to providing skin benefits, feverfew also helps reduce and prevent hair loss. The anti-inflammatory properties of the herb play a key role in its ability to reduce hair fall. However, using feverfew directly on the scalp is not recommended as it may cause certain side effects. So the best option is to prepare feverfew tea and drink it regularly.

Feverfew lowers blood pressure

In several studies that looked into the effectiveness of feverfew in providing relief from migraines, researchers noticed that there was a reduction in blood pressure as well in many patients. Feverfew has the ability to inhibit the production of prostaglandins that are responsible for increasing blood pressure by causing inflammation in the blood vessels. Thus by lowering blood pressure, feverfew offers protective effects on the heart and reduces the risks of heart attacks and strokes.

As you can see, the health benefits of feverfew are numerous. The benefits of this plant as a medicinal herb has been confirmed by various clinical trials and experiments, which has increased its popularity, leading to its cultivation in many parts of the world. People spend a lot of money on medications to get relief from migraines. Although these drugs may succeed in providing temporary relief from pain, their continuous use can sometimes be dangerous as they may cause severe side effects in the long run. Feverfew, on the other hand is natural, safe, inexpensive and also recommended by experts.

Feverfew Prevents Migraine and Has Several Other Benefits

Source:http://healthonabudget.com/feverfew-prevents-migraine-and-has-several-other-benefits/

By Benjamin Tong

Feverfew (Tanaceum Parthenium) is also known as “wild chamomile” or “featherfew”. Other names include: pyrethrum, featheroil, bride’s buttons, and bachelor’s buttons to name a few. It is a plant that belongs to the family of sunflower and looks similar to a daisy.

The plant is native to Southeast Europe, although it can be found throughout North America, Australia, and Europe.

Feverfew grows in a rich and well-drained soil with stiff and loamy character and blooms from July- October. It is often found in gardens and open spaces.

Feverfew has been used, specifically by the Europeans as an herbal remedy for the treatment of different ailments.

It has parthenolide- a kind of compound that eases muscles spasms, prevents blood vessel constriction, and reduces inflammation.

It is also capable of inhibiting the aggregating platelet in the bloodstream, which results in the prevention of blockage in the small capillaries. These things and more are some of the best reasons behind the rapidly increasing popularity of feverfew in the many parts of the world.

6 Health Benefits of Feverfew

1. Aids in Arthritis

Like with elderberry, the compounds found in feverfew can help relieve arthritis-related inflammation and pain. These compounds decrease the capability of the body to create materials that may initiate the inflammation.

Generally, inflammation comes with swelling, pain, and redness, which takes place inside the body tissues or outside the skin. With the help of feverfew, the platelets are kept from releasing inflammatory materials.

In addition, feverfew can also decrease the generation of prostaglandins. These are hormone-like materials that are produced within the body and participate in some bodily functions like blood pressure, inflammation, temperature, and blood vessel tone.

2. Decreases Migraines and Headaches

Various studies indicate that the use of feverfew can actually decrease the frequency of migraines and headaches. It acts as an effective anti-inflammatory pill like aspirin. It also stops spasms in the blood vessels and controls inflammation by inhibiting histamines and amines.

The inflammation and spasm are the main cause of migraine and headache.

Feverfew also inhibits the release of prostaglandins and serotonin (two inflammatory chemicals that trigger migraines). With the use of the plant, the intensity and frequency of headaches and migraines were decreased, provided it was taken daily.

3. Helps Prevent Cancer

The chemical parthenolide in feverfew is capable of inducing apoptosis or the death of cells through self-destruction in terms of cancer cells.

Laboratory tests also showed that this parthenolide can help protect the body against cancer by targeting the cancer stem cells. Furthermore, a 2005 study discovered that the extracted parthenolide from feverfew was able to prevent pancreatic cells from growing.

4. Alleviates Menstrual Cramps

Feverfew can help restrict the body from releasing prostaglandin (hormone that triggers irritation and pain during PMS). As a result it helps alleviate menstrual cramps.

One can take feverfew the day before the expected cramp starts to minimize the pain, swelling, or any discomfort brought by the menstrual cycle.

5. Reduces Skin Inflammation and Promotes Healthy Skin

Another reason why feverfew is widely praised is due to its natural anti-inflammatory properties. It naturally reduces skin inflammation, cures swelling and redness, and prevents the future occurrence of other skin problems such as scratches and patches, and even ringworms.

As these things are prevented, the use of feverfew results in healthy skin.

The plant is also very rich in antioxidants. Drinking feverfew tea on a regular basis provides protection to the body against harmful free radicals that can be damaging to the skin cells. Given its anti-inflammatory nature, the plant revitalizes and renews the health of the skin by making it young and healthy from inside out.

6. Prevents Hair Loss

Aside from providing skin benefits, feverfew is also an exceptional herb that helps reduce hair loss. Again, with the help of its anti-inflammatory properties, people who use feverfew benefited by having lesser hair fall.

However, it is important to note that the herb should not be directly used on the scalp as it can have side effects. Instead, it is best to drink feverfew tea to prevent hair loss and to keep baldness at bay.

Summary

Natural medication has been used throughout history, because it works. There are so many plants and fruits that prove to be effective at curing and preventing various ailments and diseases, feverfew is one of them. It is available in both dried and fresh forms, in tablet, extract, and capsule.

Perhaps the easiest way to get the benefits from feverfew is to brew it in a herbal tea. This promising herb provides exceptional health benefits that can create a drastic improvement in one’s body. These are just the top 6 benefits of feverfew, with many more that have also been verified and documented.

Health Benefits and Uses for Feverfew

Source:http://www.care2.com/greenliving/health-benefits-and-uses-for-feverfew.html

By Michelle Schoffro Cook

I have lived in two semi-desert regions in Canada. Yes, Canada has desert regions! Even many Canadians don’t believe me when I tell them that there is desert in Canada, but the intense heat, dry landscape and small cactus plants dotting the mountainsides (and sometimes my shoes) support my claim. Unlike some desert regions that don’t support much plant life, I found a wide diversity of plants in the Canadian desert, including the lovely, small, daisy-like plant known as feverfew.

One of the things I’ve learned over my twenty-five years of studying herbalism and natural medicine is that plants adapted to extreme conditions, such as drought, high altitude, heat or cold, tend to have higher amounts of healing compounds. That’s because the healing compounds are the same substances that ensure the plant’s survival in these harsh conditions. Feverfew, which can grow in hot conditions with little water, is a most impressive healer. Not only does it have analgesic properties that can reduce the pain of migraines or arthritis, but it also reduces inflammation, stimulates digestion and acts as an antispasmodic to help alleviate menstrual cramps.

Health Benefits of Feverfew

Feverfew is a popular remedy for migraine headaches, a particularly excruciating form of headache that is often characterized by knifing pain in one eye. But it is an all-around great pain reliever.

• Fever Remedy

Feverfew has been used as a medicine for millennia. The name is believed to come from its history of use in treating fevers, though little modern research has been conducted on its use for this purpose.

• Migraine and Headache Reliever

Feverfew works best against migraines when taken regularly as a preventive measure. Taking it similarly to migraine medications or over-the-counter pain relievers, after the onset of pain, is rarely effective. In a meta-analysis of studies using feverfew for the treatment of migraines published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, researchers concluded that well-constructed studies of feverfew showed that it could reduce the prevalence of migraines. Preventive use is also effective at reducing the incidence and severity of headaches in chronic headache sufferers.

• Neuropathy Pain Reliever

Neuropathy is a general term used to describe disorders of the nervous system that cause pain, weakness and numbness. It is a possible side effect of cancer chemotherapy. In a study published in the journal Phytomedicine, researchers found that feverfew was as effective as the drug gabapentin (an antiepileptic drug that has also been found to alleviate neuropathic pain). Interestingly, the scientists who conducted the study found significant improvement in nerve-related pain when an extract of the flowers was used but none when the leaves were used, yet many feverfew products are made primarily from the leaves. The feverfew flower extract reduced neuropathy caused by the chemotherapy drug oxaliplatin and the antiviral drug dideoxycytidine.

• Dermatitis Healer

Dermatitis is a medical term for any type of skin irritation that involves inflammation. Preliminary research has found that feverfew is helpful against dermatitis, apparently because it helps heal damaged skin cells and reduce inflammation.

The aerial parts of the plant (those parts that are above the ground—leaves, flowers and/or stems) are used in herbal medicine. You can make a tea from one teaspoon of the dried herb per cup of boiled water. Pour the water over the herb and allow to steep for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Drink 3 times daily. Alternatively you can take a feverfew tincture. The typical dose is 30 drops 3 times daily.

Using feverfew requires some caution. If you are allergic to ragweed, you may also be allergic to feverfew. Pregnant or nursing women should avoid feverfew. The prescription blood thinner warfarin (Coumadin), can interact with feverfew, so it is best not to take both together. Additionally, if you routinely take over-the-counter pain killers, it is best to skip feverfew. Also avoid taking it for a couple of weeks prior to undergoing surgery. Consult your physician prior to use.

Natural Healing with Feverfew

Source:http://www.safealternativemedicine.co.uk/naturalhealingfeverfew.html

By Corinna Underwood

Clinical research has shown that feverfew can reduce the severity and frequency of recurrent headaches, including migraine. It also contains the active principles borneol, which stimulates the flow of gastric juices and improves circulation, camphor, which is an expectorant, parthenolide and tanetin, which aid migraine relief, and terpene; an antioxidant. These constituents increase fluidity of lung and bronchial tube mucus stimulates the appetite. It is recommended for arthritis, colitis fever menstrual problems and muscle tension as well as headaches.

An infusion of the flowers is effective at reducing pain such as tooth ache or neuralgia.

A locally applied Feverfew tincture has been shown to relieve pain and swelling caused by insect bites. Mix two teaspoonfuls of tincture are with 1/2 pint of cold water, and sponge all areas that have bites.

Feverfew capsules (usually 250mg) can be taken daily. Effects are usually noticeable within four weeks.

There are several ways you can extract and use the benefits of feverfew yourself. Though folk remedies recommend eating a fresh leaf daily for the prevention and reduction of headaches, this may cause sores in the mouth.

Making a Tisane

This is the fastest and easiest method of utilizing the medicinal properties of Feverfew. Feverfew tea can be made by pouring one pint of boiling water over 1oz. of dried flowers and cooling this may be given as a general tonic to relieve nervousness or melancholy. A half tea cup several times each day is recommended.

Making a Tincture

A tincture is made, by filling a jar with the required amount of herb (200 grams of dried or 300 grams of fresh, chopped herbs to one litre of liquid is needed). Cover the leaves with a25% alcohol/water solution. Usually vodka is used or rum which will help to sweeten the taste of bitter herbs (never use wood alcohol or rubbing alcohol). Distilled water, vinegar or glycerol can be used to make non-alcoholic tinctures. Then add water to top up the jar and seal the lid tightly. Place the jar into a dark place and leave to steep for at least two weeks, shaking daily. When ready, strain through cheesecloth or muslin and store the solution in dark bottles or jars to prevent the sunlight affecting the strength. Tinctures will last up to two years if stored in an airtight container. Feverfew tincture may be taken in tincture form not exceeding a dose of 5-10 drops every 30 minutes at the onset of a migraine.

Making an Organic Cream

A cream is a mixture of water with fat or oils, which softens and blends with the skin. Homemade creams last for several months, loner in the fridge or cool place. A few drops of benzoin tincture will preserve longer.

Mix together 25g white beeswax and 25g water-free lanolin with 100ml sunflower oil, 25ml glycerine and 75ml water. Heat the mixture and add 50g of dried herb, stirring constantly. Strain and pour into a jar, sealing when cooled.

Cautions; feverfew should not be used by pregnant or nursing women because it promotes uterine and menstrual stimulation. It should not be used by anyone who is sensitive to plants of the Ragweed family, or has an allergy to pyrethrins. Feverfew should not be given to children under two years of age.

Feverfew Benefits and Uses for Skin, Hair and Health

Source:http://www.sfgate.com/homeandgarden/article/Feverfew-s-readily-available-easily-grown-3276180.php

(Nikitha, Stylish Walks)

Feverfew is commonly known as wild chamomile. It belongs to the sunflower family ad is also known by many other names like featherfew, because of its feather like leaves. Europeans have been using this herb for a long time to treat various diseases and ailments. The leaves of feverfew plants are still used to make medicines. Feverfew is known for its health benefits as well as its benefits for the skin and hair.

Benefits of Feverfew for Skin:

Controls Skin redness and swelling:

Feverfew is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it great for reducing inflammation of the skin. You can use this herb for reducing swelling and the redness of the skin. It also prevents them from occurring in future. You can also use this herb for getting rid of ringworm, patches and scratches.

Promote healthy skin:

Feverfew tea is loaded with antioxidants. By consuming feverfew tea regularly and in moderate amounts helps in protecting your body from the actions of harmful free radicals, which lead to cell damage. The anti-inflammatory properties of this herb help in renewing and revitalizing your skin, so that your skin is made healthy and young from inside.

Benefits of Feverfew for Hair:

Stops hair fall:

Feverfew is very beneficial for reducing hair fall. This is because of its anti-inflammatory properties. People using this herb regularly have experienced a great reduction in hair fall. It is not recommended that you use feverfew herb directly on your scalp. This can be risky ad it can lead to side effects. So, the best way is t drink feverfew tea in moderate amounts. This helps in stopping hair fall and also keeps you away from baldness.

Health and Medicinal Benefits of Feverfew:

Arthritis:

Feverfew herbs contain certain compounds in them, which help in providing you relief from the pain and inflammation that you experience when you suffer from arthritis. It is also good for getting relief from fever.

Blood pressure:

Feverfew is effective for lowering the blood pressure. This is because it has the ability to reduce the actions of prostaglandins, which is a hormone responsible for causing inflammation in blood vessels.

Kills cancer cells:

This amazing herb has the power to kill cancer cells. The active compounds present in this herb helps in killing the cancer cells. Research conducted a few years ago shows that it is more effective for killing cancer cells than the chemo drugs that are so expensive.

Menstrual cramps:

You get relief from menstrual cramps by using feverfew. The reason is that this herb helps in restricting the release of a hormone called prostaglandin. It is this hormone that causes pain and irritation that you experience with PMS.

Migraine:

According to studies made, feverfew is very effective for decreasing the attacks of migraine as well as for reducing its frequency. It is seen to be more effective than the anti-inflammatory pills that you use for treating migraine, like aspirin etc. Feverfew prevents inflammations and blood vessel spasms, which are the root causes of migraine attacks.

You can have feverfew tea to teat migraines. If you do not like its bitter taste, you can have freeze dried capsules of this herb instead. A daily dose of 250 mg is enough for treating migraine. You can also grow feverfew plant and consume its leaves.

Relieves nerve pain:

Feverfew has the ability to reduce pain and inflammation that you feel in your body. This is because it prevents the release of inflammatory substances like serotonin. It provides you relief from pain just like any pharmaceutical pain relievers and fever-reducing medicines, but it has no lasting side effects like the other medicines.

So, now that you have seen some of the benefits of feverfew, try to include it in your diet and enjoy its benefits. If you are wondering how you can get hold of this plant, go to the market and ask. It is flooded with feverfew supplements, pills, capsules and tinctures. You can try them. But the safest way it use it is in the form of tea. This way you will get all the benefits of the plant. Although feverfew is safe for most people, there some side effects of this plant that you should know. They are as follows:

Side Effects of Feverfew:

1. Some of the common side effects of feverfew are bloating, diarrhoea, heartburn, stomach upset, vomiting, constipation, flatulence and nausea.

2. Some of the reported side effects of feverfew also include tiredness, weight gain, rash, stiffness in the joints, pounding heart and trouble in sleeping.

3. Pregnant and breast feeding women should avoid consuming feverfew.

4. Although chewing fresh leaves of feverfew is very beneficial, it can cause swelling of the lips, mouth and tongue in a few people. It can also temporarily remove the sense of taste and cause mouth sores.

In spite of the side effects of feverfew, it is used by many and is very beneficial. Just keep in mind that you do not over-consume it. Studies made have shown that consuming 50 to 100 mg of feverfew extract a day is enough to provide you relief from the attacks of migraine headaches. If you are suffering from any other ailments and problems, you will have to consult a doctor and take his opinion. If you prefer feverfew tea, make sure that you follow the instructions given on the pack.

Feverfew's readily available, easily grown

Source:http://www.sfgate.com/homeandgarden/article/Feverfew-s-readily-available-easily-grown-3276180.php

By Pam Peirce

Plus, some ideas for replacing lawn to conserve water

Q:I'd like to try making insect repellent with feverfew, but am having a hard time finding any. I noticed you wrote that you have some in your garden, so I thought you might know where I might find some.

A: Feverfew is Tanacetum parthenium, formerly called Chrysanthemum parthenium. It has been tried for several medical complaints over the centuries, and its extract has been applied to the skin as an insect repellent, though I can't vouch for its effectiveness.

This perennial plant, often grown ornamentally, is a foot or 2 tall, with feathery leaves and white, daisylike flower heads. Some varieties have chartreuse leaves, and these are often grown as foliage plants, with the flower heads picked off for maximum impact. Calls to a few local nurseries revealed that although they might not have feverfew in stock at the moment, they can easily order some if you ask for it. Because feverfew grows so quickly, a plant in a 4-inch pot is a better buy than one in a gallon pot. Feverfew is also easy to grow from seed. You can get seed from Renee's Garden (reneesgarden.com) and Botanical Interests (botanicalinterests.com), both of which sell online and in Bay Area nurseries. Feverfew that flowers often produces seedlings near the parent plant the following spring. I use these to replace old plants, which often look less attractive after the first year.

Q:For several years I've been threatening to get rid of our front and back lawns. My prime concern is water, but energy is also a factor (mowing), along with the dandelions and gophers that insist on calling these areas home.

I'm wondering if there's an easy, perhaps step-by-step way to make the conversion from sod to shrubs, grasses, rocks, whatever. I've considered covering the entire area with plastic, covering that with wood chips, and letting it sit there through the summer, hoping that this would kill both sod and weeds so that, in the fall, we could landscape with drought-resistant plants. Would this work?

Both areas have sprinklers. With less thirsty plants, I figure we could turn them on just a few times through the summer. (We live in Lucas Valley, where the wind blows ferociously and dries out everything.)

A: Your goal of replacing a lawn with more drought-tolerant plants is a good one. There isn't one answer to getting rid of the lawn, but here are some ideas:

Some do the job by hand, using a flat-edged spade to cut small sections and then digging them. OK for small areas, backbreaking for large ones.

Your idea of covering the lawn is good, but plastic forms an unwanted barrier to water and soil life. I suggest instead brown cardboard or at least six layers of newspaper (a bonus for newspaper subscribers). Mow the lawn short, then apply overlapping layers of either material, wetting them as you go. Cover with wood chips. In a few months, your lawn should be dead, but don't underestimate the ability of some grasses to creep under mulch and find a way to the light.

Solarizing soil can kill a lawn along with weed seeds. It is done by watering the ground, then covering it with one or two layers of clear plastic for four to six weeks. However, in areas with typical summer temperatures of less than 80 degrees and strong summer winds, the sun won't be able to heat the soil enough for this method to work.

Another option is to rent a tool known as a sod cutter that lifts strips of sod so you can roll them up and carry them away. It operates like a huge power mower. If you use this, be sure to mark your sprinkler heads with little flags (from an irrigation supplier) so you won't damage them.

Sod cutting is fast, but you do end up with the removed sod. You can stack it grass-side down, moistening layers, and let it rot to compost. You can pile it where it will create berms, which can add interest to your garden and reduce runoff. If you put sod in municipal yard waste pickup tubs, you may need to remove attached soil first, and that is quite a job. However, you may be able to take it to the dump with soil attached.

If you have dandelions, the cut taproots left in the ground after you remove the sod may regrow. Wait a few weeks and then dig the stragglers out by hand.

Landscape advisers often suggest using a glyphosate herbicide, such as Roundup, either alone or before the mulch or the sod cutting methods. I'm assuming you'd rather not use an herbicide, and I think you can avoid it unless you have Bermuda grass, which is one of the most invasive and persistent weeds on earth. (Bermuda grass is a fine-leaved grass that has tough, wiry runners both above and belowground.)

For drought-tolerant plant and design ideas, see the books "Plants and Landscapes for Summer Dry Climates of the San Francisco Bay Region" (EBMUD, 2004) and "California Native Plants for the Garden" by Carol Bornstein, David Fross and Bart O'Brien (Cachuma Press, 2005).

Most experts advise converting a sprinkler system to drip irrigation for areas planted in shrubby plants, but there are some who would recommend using microspray emitters to water soil between California native plants (for example, see the Web site of Las Pilitas Nursery, laspilitas.com. (Click on "Classes" and on "Garden Myths About California Native Plants.")

10 Healing Herbs to Grow in Your Survival Garden

Source:http://www.sfgate.com/homeandgarden/article/Feverfew-s-readily-available-easily-grown-3276180.php

(The Paleo Mama)

For many, the time has come to plan our summer gardens. My interest is a bit self-serving in that I am in the process of rethinking my own garden and while I grow an abundance of rosemary, lavender and peppermint, this year will be an ideal time to replace some tired shrubs with plants that will work for me. Healing herbs will fit the bill quote nicely.

Herbs have been used for centuries to sooth and to heal. According to Wikipedia:

"Herbs have long been used as the basis of traditional Chinese herbal medicine, with usage dating as far back as the first century CE and before. Medicinal use of herbs in Western cultures has its roots in the Hippocratic (Greek) elemental healing system, based on a quaternary elemental healing metaphor."

With such a long history of use it makes perfect sense that you would want to include a selection of herbs in the survival garden.

Healing Herbs for the Healing Garden

Basil: People don’t usually think of basil as a healing herb and yet traditionally, it is called the “king of herbs”. It is used medicinally as a natural anti-inflammatory and is thought to have mild antiseptic functions. Some healing uses are for flatulence, lack off appetite, nausea and cuts and scrapes. It is also superb on spaghetti and in pesto but then you already knew that. Basil is an annual plant so you will have to start anew each year.

German Chamomile: Chamomile is one of the most popular herbs in the Western world. Its flower heads are commonly used for infusions, teas and salves. These in turn can be used to treat indigestion, anxiety and skin inflammations. As a tea, it serves as a mild sedative to help with sleep.

Feverfew: This perennial is a member of the sunflower family and has been used for centuries in European folk medicine as a remedy for headaches, arthritis, and fevers. The name feverfew comes from a Latin word meaning “fever reducer.”

Its many uses include easing headache pains – especially migraines. This is done by chewing on the leaves. A tea made from the leaves and flowers is said to relieve the symptoms of arthritis.

Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is a member of the mint family. Considered a calming herb, it has been used as far back as the Middle Ages to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, improve appetite, and ease pain and discomfort from indigestion. Even before the Middle Ages, lemon balm was steeped in wine to lift the spirits, help heal wounds, and treat venomous insect bites and stings.

As with many other herbs in your healing garden, lemon balm promotes relaxation and a sense of calm.

Parsley: While not one of my favorites, there is nothing like a sprig of parsley to take away bad breath. It is no wonder that this biennial (meaning it lives for two years) is used to decorate and garnish plates in the fanciest of restaurants.

When brewed as a tea, parsley can help supplement iron in a person’s diet, particularly for those who are anemic. Drinking parsley tea also boosts energy and overall circulation of the body, and helps battle fatigue from lack of iron. Other uses? Parsley tea fights gas and flatulence in the belly, kidney infections, and bladder infections. It can also be an effective diuretic.

Sage: Did you know that the genus name for sage is “salvia” which means “to heal”? In the first century C.E. Greek physician Dioscorides reported that sage stopped bleeding of wounds and cleaned ulcers and sores. He also recommended sage juice in warm water for hoarseness and cough. In modern times, a sage tea is used to sooth mouth, throat and gum inflammations. This is because sage has excellent antibacterial and astringent properties.

Thyme: Back during medieval times, thyme was given to knights before going in to battle. The purpose was to infuse this manly man with vigor and courage.

These days, thyme used to relieve coughs, congestion, indigestion and gas. This perennial is rich in thymol, a strong antiseptic, making thyme highly desirable in the treatment of wounds and even fungus infections. Thyme is a perennial that does well, even in cooler, Pacific Northwest climates.

Rosemary: Long ago, rosemary was known as ‘the herb of remembrance.’ Even today, in places like Australia and New Zealand, it is used as a symbol of remembrance since it is known to help sharpen mental clarity and stimulate brain function. You might recall that many statues of the ancient Greeks and Romans show men wearing sprigs of rosemary on their heads – signifying mental acuity.

The needles of the delightfully fragrant rosemary plant can be used in a tea to treat digestive problems. The same tea can also be used as an expectorant and as a relaxing beverage that is helpful for headaches. Other healing uses include improving memory, relieving muscle pain and spasms, stimulating hair growth, and supporting the circulatory and nervous systems.

Peppermint: Peppermint has a long tradition of medicinal use. Archaeological evidence places its use far back as ten thousand years ago. It is commonly used to soothe or treat symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, indigestion, irritable bowel, and bloating and more. The leaves and stems contain menthol which in addition to use medicinally, is used as a flavoring in food, and a fragrance in cosmetics. The plant is prolific, growing well in moist, shaded areas as well as in sunnier locations. The roots emit runners that can quickly overtake the garden so most gardeners prefer to plant peppermint in pots.

The easiest way to acquire a peppermint plant? Find a friend or neighbor that is growing peppermint to break off a stem. Place it is a glass of water and in a very short period of times, roots will form an you will have your own peppermint start.

Lavender: I saved my personal favorite for last. Of course it helps that I have an abundant amount of fragrant lavender in my yard.

A tea made from lavender has many uses with one of the foremost being it’s ability to have a calming effect on a person’s mind and body. To that end, lavender can promote a sense of well-being and alleviate stress. It is also useful for dealing with various gastrointestinal issues such as upset stomachs and flatulence.

Because it is a strong antiseptic, lavender tea, when applied topically, can help heal cuts, wounds and sores. It can also be used to mitigate bad breath.

How Do I Get Started?

With so many to herbs to choose from, where do you start? A lot will depend on the amount of space you have, the climate, and the availability of seeds, starts, or cuttings. My recommendation is that you start with three or four herbs that appeal to you from a healing perspective. Many can be grown in pots on a porch or deck so if space is a problem, you can start modestly.

How to Make an Herbal Tea

The process of making a pot of herbal tea is in itself healing. Perhaps that has something to do with the proactive effort involved in doing something positive for one’s own self and well-being. And luckily, brewing an herbal tea is easy.

To make an herbal tea, first bring some cool water to a boil. While waiting for the water to boil, fetch a non-mental container that will be used to brew the tea. A quart mason jar works nicely for this purpose. You do not want to use a metal container since the metal may interfere with the purity and taste of the tea.

Add 2 tablespoons of fresh (or 1 tablespoon of dried herb or crushed seed) to the empty pot or jar for each cup of water. Then, and this is the important part, add an extra 2 tablespoons of fresh (or 1 tablespoon of dried) herbs “for the pot.” So, for example, if you are making 2 cups of hot tea, you would use 6 tablespoons of fresh herbs or 3 tablespoons of dried herbs.

Pour the boiling water over the herbs and let them steep, covered, for about 5 minutes give or take. There is no exact time since everyone’s strength preference is difference. When ready, strain the herbs and pour the tea into a cup. At this point you may want to garnish your heavenly – and healing – cup of tea with honey, citrus fruits or addition herb sprigs.

For iced tea, increase the quantity of herbs in the basic recipe by 1 1/2 to allow for dilution from the melting ice.

The Final Word

In reading about these herbs, you may have noticed that many are reputed to have the same or similar healing qualities. Do they work? I can personally vouch for Rosemary and Lavender which I have used as both a tea and as an essential oil.

One thing that is true is that with a little time and for a nominal cost, you can grow the makings for healing teas, infusions and balms in your own garden. Add a dose of sun and some rich potting soil and you will be set to go. Just keep in mind that while perennial plants will flourish over the winter and will be there for you the following spring, annual plants must be reseeded or restarted every year.

From feverfew to magnetic zappers, a brain expert reveals the migraine busters that really DO work!

Source:http://www.care2.com/greenliving/7-natural-ways-to-help-nerve-pain.html

By Andrew Dowson (The Mail On Sunday)

First things first: a migraine is NOT just a headache. Attacks involve far more than the characteristic one-sided head pain – they can include hallucinations, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light or sound, and muscular problems.

And as the Christmas party season gets into swing, the 18 per cent of women and eight per cent of men who suffer migraine might find they are struck down more often: typical triggers include red wine, interrupted sleep patterns and everyday stress.

The array of treatment options can be bewildering, so here DR ANDREW DOWSON, of the East Kent Headache PCT Service, gives an expert guide to what is worth trying…

FIRST LINE OF DEFENCE

WHAT: Triptans (seven drugs including Sumatriptan/Imigran and Zolmitriptan/Zomig).

HOW IT WORKS: Migraines are caused by abnormal brain activity and the brain’s blood vessels enlarging. Launched in 1991, triptans are thought to help the vessels return to their normal size.

PROOF: The use of triptans is supported by a large number of clinical trials, backed up by nearly 25 years of use.

EXPERT VERDICT: Triptans are your first port of call for acute migraine, says Dr Dowson. ‘They ease pain in 40 per cent of sufferers within an hour, and provide complete relief within two.’ Taking triptans regularly may lead to ‘medication overuse headache’, so use only once an attack has started.

THE BOOSTERS

WHAT: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, including aspirin, ibuprofen and the prescription drug naproxen).

HOW IT WORKS: By reducing swelling by blocking enzymes and proteins that the body makes.

PROOF: One 2009 study found that combining Sumatriptan with naproxen resulted in a significantly greater relief of migraine pain than either drug individually.

EXPERT VERDICT: The key is acting very quickly, taking a larger-than-recommended initial dose – three painkilling tablets rather than the recommended two for the first dose. Try 600-900mg of soluble aspirin dissolved in a sweet, fizzy drink as the bubbles will speed it into your bloodstream. ‘Migraines slow down activity of the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in sluggish absorption of painkillers, hence the large dose,’ says Dr Dowson. ‘The general rule is to take non-steroidal drugs on no more than two days a week.’

KEEP A COOL HEAD

WHAT: 4head (£4.95, from Boots).

HOW IT WORKS: While other painkillers affect the whole body, the menthol extract in this stick works to relax the muscles around the forehead, causing a sensation of coldness, and in turn, analgesic pain relief.

PROOF: Independent trials involved 20 people aged between 18 and 68, all of whom suffered at least two tension headaches a week. Altogether, 130 headaches were treated, most using four ‘swipes’ across the forehead. Volunteers felt the effects of 4head starting to work within two minutes, and 95 per cent found their pain had gone within 30 minutes.

EXPERT VERDICT: Dr Dowson says: ‘Anecdotally it seems to help some sufferers control symptoms, but not stop or prevent an attack. But when you’re at work or on the move, any form of relief is welcome. There’s also the advantage that there won’t be side effects like drowsiness, nausea and dry mouth.’

GET STRAIGHT TO THE POINT

WHAT: Acupuncture.

HOW IT WORKS: The ancient Chinese practice involves placing fine needles at specific points on the body’s surface. The needles are said to relax the nervous system and promote the release of ‘feel-good’ endorphins.

PROOF: A trial of 160 patients in Turin found acupuncture to be more effective than drugs in relieving migraine. Study author Dr Gianni Allais found women who received acupuncture had fewer migraines during the first four months of treatment. They also needed less medication.

EXPERT VERDICT: There are mixed results from clinical trials, but Dr Dowson says: ‘This is now approved as a treatment on the NHS, so it’s worth considering.’

BLOCK IT OUT

WHAT: Beta blockers (propranolol).

HOW IT WORKS: It’s still unclear how they prevent migraine symptoms but it may be by inhibiting electrical brain activity. Beta blockers also block the effect of adrenaline, reduce blood pressure and slow the heartbeat.

PROOF: Hypertension studies in the 1960s and 1970s described some patients reporting fewer migraines. In more recent times, the efficacy has been confirmed in studies that compared a new drug to a placebo.

EXPERT VERDICT: Beta blockers are effective treatments, Dr Dowson says, especially for patients with frequent migraines. But they’re not without side effects and can cause tiredness, dizziness, cold extremities, decreased libido and nightmares. They may also exacerbate asthma.

ANTI-WRINKLE JABS

WHAT: Botox injections.

HOW IT WORKS: It is thought that the Botox effect is through the nerves, inhibiting messages that cause the brain to have a headache.

PROOF: Doctors in North Carolina reported up to 92 per cent success rates on those with chronic migraine, while UK researchers have carried out several trials showing that, on average, sufferers had 50 per cent fewer migraines. Botox is approved for NHS use.

EXPERT VERDICT: It is only of real benefit to chronic sufferers – but unlike the triptans and NSAIDs, it’s a preventative rather than rescue approach, says Dr Dowson. ‘The other benefit is that there seem to be very few side effects.’

THE HERBAL ROUTE

WHAT: Feverfew.

HOW IT WORKS: A member of the sunflower family, feverfew contains a range of biochemicals – but the pain-easing effect is thought to be via one called parthenolides, which combats the widening of blood vessels that occurs in migraine.

PROOF: A UK survey of 270 people with migraines found that more than 70 per cent felt much better after taking an average of two to three fresh feverfew leaves daily. Several studies suggest taking dried leaf capsules of feverfew every day may reduce migraines in people who have chronic attacks.

EXPERT VERDICT: Feverfew can cause mouth and other ulcers and the combination of chemicals risks a wide range of other side effects. Dr Dowson also advises considering Vitamin B complex taken with riboflavin, magnesium and coenzyme Q10. ‘Taken regularly, they have been shown to work on half of patients to reduce their rate of attack by half,’ he says.

STOPPING THE STORM

WHAT: Electrical stimulators: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Vagal Nerve Stimulation (VNS), and Cefaly.

HOW IT WORKS: Devices held against your head to transfer bursts of magnetic waves or low electrical current which short-circuit the electrical storm in the brain associated with migraine. eNeura’s Spring TMS (patients can get a three-month free trial via a referral from a specialist clinic, following which they can lease a machine for about £150 a month) is held behind the head; gammaCore’s electroCore VNS (also available for free trial through a specialist) is held against the throat; and the Cefaly headband (£249, cefaly.co.uk) sends low electrical current across the forehead.

PROOF: Earlier this year, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence revealed data of a trial which saw 164 patients treated with single transcranial magnetic stimulation, and 39 per cent were pain-free two hours later.

EXPERT VERDICT: More trial data is needed, Dr Dowson says. There will be some centres involved in researching the devices in ongoing clinical trials, but for most patients the reality is a potential free trial period, followed by a decision about investing in the technology.

7 Natural Ways to Help Nerve Pain

Source:http://www.care2.com/greenliving/7-natural-ways-to-help-nerve-pain.html

By Michelle Schoffro Cook

Anyone who has experienced the agony of nerve pain knows it can be challenging to cope with the sharp, knifing pain. Sadly, many of the drugs on the market have serious side effects and can even be addictive. Fortunately there are some excellent natural options for treating nerve pain, also known as neuralgia or neuropathy. Neuralgia refers to nerve pain specifically while neuropathy is the general term to describe nervous system disorders that cause pain, as well as numbness or weakness. Here are some of my picks for addressing nerve pain naturally:

Acupuncture: Acupuncture—the practice of applying needles to specific points of the body to elicit a therapeutic response—is particularly effective against pain. And, electroacupuncture—the practice of using electrical current on the points used in acupuncture— seems to be particularly effective against nerve pain. An animal study published in the medical journal Anesthesia and Analgesia showed improvement from nerve pain.

Chiropractic: Because nerves run from the brain through the spine to the various areas of the body, it may be helpful to adjust the spine to prevent any pressure, pinching or irritation on the nerves. Research in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that 60 percent of those suffering from nerve pain linked to sciatica experienced relief from chiropractic even when other medical therapies failed. The level of relief was likened to that of surgery.

Curcumin: One of the active ingredients in the spice turmeric demonstrates potent anti-pain properties. According to a study published in the Journal of Pain Research, curcumin is more potent and longer lasting than 1000 mg of acetaminophen or 100 mg of the drug nimesulide. While this study was on the general anti-pain effects of curcumin, other research such as one published in the journal Neuroscience Letters, has specifically studied the compound’s effect on nerve pain, particularly diabetic neuralgia, and found it effective.

Exercise: Exercise encourages the release of natural pain-killing compounds known as endorphins, so you may find it helpful to go for a walk, hop on a bike or partake in another form of physical activity.

Feverfew: Research shows that alcohol extracts, known as tinctures, of feverfew flowers is effective against nerve pain. Incidentally, extracts of the leaves were not as effective as the flower-based ones, so if you’re choosing this herb to help with pain management, be sure to use a flower extract. Also, keep in mind that feverfew does not immediately eliminate pain but gradually decreases the pain over time. It may take a month or two to get desirable results.

St. John’s Wort: While this lovely yellow flowering herb is most widely known for its effects on depression, research published in the Italian medical journal Fitoterapia found that St. John’s Wort and feverfew flower extracts were highly effective in reducing the pain of neuropathy linked to diabetes. The herbal medicine proved comparable to three different drugs used for the condition, including: carbamazepine, lamotrigine and l-acetyl levocarnitine.

The researchers believe that two compounds found in St. John’s Wort are responsible for its anti-pain properties. Known as hyperforin and hypericin, these naturally-occurring compounds are likely to thank for the plant’s ability to alleviate pain. Oil infusions made with St. John’s wort are can be applied to help alleviate the pain of diabetic neuropathy. Simply apply the oil two to three times daily until symptoms improve.

Additionally, tinctures made from the plant can help address the nerve pain from the inside out. Because many drugs interact with St. John’s Wort, be sure to check with your pharmacist before combining them. This herb can also increase sensitivity to the sun, so avoid sun exposure within two to three hours after using St. John’s Wort. Additionally, avoid taking St. John’s Wort while pregnant or nursing.

Stretching and Yoga: Stretching or participating in yoga postures can be helpful for nerve pain. Research published in the Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation found that yoga was helpful against nerve pain caused by sciatica.

Gardeners Rediscover Herbal Remedies

Source:http://www.sfgate.com/homeandgarden/article/Gardeners-Rediscover-Herbal-Remedies-2789784.php

By Julie Bawden Davis

Long before pharmacies and over-the-counter remedies, our ancestors medicated and protected their bodies against illness by harvesting herbs and creating their own remedies.

Today's gardeners are rediscovering this ancient world of medicinal herbs, putting in such plants as feverfew, Echinacea, lemon balm and valerian.

"The interest in medicinal herbs has exploded in the last two or three years," says Kathleen Halloran, editor of the Herb Companion, a magazine published by Interweave Press Inc., in Loveland, Colo.

Gardening experts have noticed a burgeoning interest in medicinal herbs, which can consist of the roots, fruit, leaves, flowers and even the bark of plants.

"In 1994, the FDA conducted a survey which estimated that 8 percent of Americans used herbal products within the previous year," says Halloran. "In 1995, a Gallup Poll showed that 17 percent had used herbs, and in 1996, that had jumped to 19 percent, which translates to about 60 million Americans per year."

Treatment and self-care for Migraine

Source:http://www.sfgate.com/homeandgarden/article/Feverfew-s-readily-available-easily-grown-3276180.php

By Pam Pierce