Thursday, August 30, 2012

Feverfew

Photo: The Healing Muse

For many years, the leaves of this daisy-like plant have been used to reduce fevers, treat rheumatoid arthritis pain, and combat migraines.

However, according to the US NCCAM, the jury is still out on how effective this remedy can be. Although many doubt its efficacy in treating fever, some still use it.

The acrid taste makes its use as a herb tea impracticable. In fact, according to Gardens Ablaze, bees dislike the smell of the plant, and will not go near it. Thus, reasons the writer, it can work as an insect repellent. One recommended method of keeping bugs away is simply to rub the leaves onto the skin.

Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives lists this member of the Aster family as a crop. As well as being used for a variety of medicinal applications, it is used in the dried flower industry and prepared as an insect repellent.

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