Growing Feverfew Herb: A Guide to Growing Your Own Medicinal Plant

Medicinal herbs have been used for centuries to treat various ailments and promote overall health. One such herb that has gained popularity in recent times is feverfew. Feverfew, also known as Tanacetum parthenium, is a medicinal plant that is native to Europe but can be grown in many other parts of the world. In this article, we will discuss how to grow feverfew herb and its various health benefits.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in growing feverfew herb is selecting the right location. Feverfew thrives in areas with full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If you live in an area with heavy clay soil, consider adding compost or sand to improve drainage. Before planting, make sure to remove any weeds or debris from the site.

It is important to note that feverfew is a perennial herb, which means it will come back year after year. Therefore, it is essential to choose a location where it can grow undisturbed for several years. If you are planning to grow feverfew in a container, make sure to choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter.

Planting Feverfew Herb

Once you have selected the right location, it's time to plant your feverfew herb. The best time to plant feverfew is in the spring after the last frost. Start by digging a hole that is twice the size of the root ball of your plant. Place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil, making sure to tamp down the soil firmly around the roots. Water the plant thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture.

If you are growing feverfew from seeds, sow them directly into the soil in the spring or fall. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water them regularly until they germinate. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them out so that they are spaced about 12 inches apart.

Caring for Feverfew Herb

Feverfew herb requires minimal care once established. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather. Do not overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. Apply a balanced fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth.

To encourage bushier growth and more flowers, pinch back the tips of the stems when the plant is about 6 inches tall. Alternatively, you can prune the plant back by one-third in early summer.

Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, if the plant looks wilted or yellow, it may be suffering from a fungal disease. Remove any affected leaves and stems and treat the plant with a fungicide.

Health Benefits of Feverfew Herb

Feverfew herb has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of health problems, such as migraines, arthritis, and menstrual cramps. It contains compounds called sesquiterpene lactones that have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Additionally, feverfew is also believed to have anti-cancer properties and may help boost the immune system.

However, it's important to note that feverfew can cause side effects such as mouth ulcers, nausea, and stomach upset. Pregnant women should avoid taking feverfew as it can cause contractions and miscarriage. As with any herbal remedy, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using feverfew.

Healthy feverfew plants

Harvesting and Storing Feverfew Herb

You can harvest feverfew leaves and flowers throughout the growing season. Simply snip off the stems just above a set of leaves. You can use the leaves and flowers fresh or dry them for later use. To dry feverfew, hang upside down in a cool and dark place until the leaves are crispy. Store the dried leaves and flowers in an airtight container away from heat and light.

Feverfew herb can be used in a variety of ways, such as a tea, tincture, or capsule. To make feverfew tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and sweeten with honey if desired. For feverfew tincture, fill a jar with fresh feverfew leaves and flowers and cover with vodka. Shake the jar daily for 4-6 weeks, then strain and store in a dark bottle.

Dried feverfew herb

Growing feverfew herb is easy and rewarding. With its numerous health benefits, it's no wonder that feverfew has become a popular medicinal herb. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy fresh feverfew leaves and flowers all season long.

Feverfew, medicinal herbs, herbal remedies, gardening, natural medicine