Discovery and history
The feverfew clover, scientifically Menyanthes trifoliata, is a medicinal plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Its discovery goes far back into the history of European herbal medicine, when healers in the swamp and moorland areas of Europe became aware of the remarkable healing powers of this plant. The name “feverfew” already hints at one of its original uses: the relief of fevers. The plant prefers to grow in damp areas and is easily recognized by its characteristic three-pointed leaves and delicate white flowers.
Dosage forms and dosage
Feverfew clover can be taken in various forms, with tea, tincture and capsules being the most common:
- Tea: To make a tea, pour hot water over about 1-2 teaspoons of dried feverfew leaves and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. No more than 2-3 cups should be drunk daily.
- Tincture: This is an alcoholic extract of the plant. The recommended dosage is 15-20 drops, diluted in a little water 2-3 times a day.
- Capsules: These often contain standardized extracts of the plant. The usual dosage is 1-2 capsules daily, according to the instructions on the product label.
Feverfew clover: uses and mode of action
It is known for its diverse healing effects and is traditionally used for various illnesses:
- Digestive complaints: It stimulates the appetite and aids digestion. It is used for loss of appetite, stomach complaints and flatulence.
- Fever and colds: The plant has an antipyretic effect and is used to treat flu infections.
- Liver and bile complaints: It supports liver function and can be helpful for liver and gallbladder ailments.
- Inflammation: Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps with inflammatory conditions.
- Rheumatism and arthritis: It is also traditionally used to relieve joint pain and rheumatic complaints.
How it works in the body
The healing effect of feverfew is based on its numerous bioactive ingredients. These include bitter substances, triterpenes and flavonoids, which together have a range of therapeutic effects:
- Bittersubstances: they stimulate the production of stomach acid and digestive juices, which improves digestion and stimulates the appetite.
- Anti-inflammatory: Flavonoids and triterpenes reduce inflammation in the body and relieve associated pain.
- Liver-supporting: The ingredients promote the regeneration of liver cells and support the liver’s detoxification function.
When should feverfew clover be used?
It should be considered in the following situations:
- For loss of appetite and indigestion: To improve digestion and stimulate appetite.
- To reduce fever: For mild fevers and Flu infections.
- For liver and bile disorders: To support liver function and alleviate biliary complaints.
- To reduce inflammation: For inflammatory diseases and rheumatic complaints.
Who should avoid taking it?
Certain groups of people are not recommended to take feverfew:
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers: Due to insufficient studies, these groups should refrain from taking it as a precaution.
- Children: Children under the age of 12 should not take it.
- People with a known allergy to feverfew or related plants should avoid using it.
Food supplements and medicinal plants
The following dietary supplements and medicinal plants can also be taken to support the effect of feverfew:
- Milk thistle: also supports liver function and in combination can enhance the detoxifying effect.
- Dandelion: promotes digestion and supports liver and bile function.
- Artichoke extract: Helps with digestive problems and supports bile production.
Natural foods with feverfew clover
It is rarely used as a food itself. It is mainly used in the form of tea, tinctures and capsules. However, there are no natural foods that contain feverfew in significant quantities.
Feverfew clover: side effects and overdose
It is generally safe to take, but can lead to side effects in individual cases:
- Gastrointestinal complaints: In sensitive individuals, it may cause stomach discomfort, nausea or diarrhea.
- Allergic reactions: In rare cases, allergic reactions such as skin rash or breathing difficulties may occur.
Overdose
An overdose of feverfew can lead to serious damage to health:
- Severe gastrointestinal complaints: Vomiting, severe diarrhea, abdominal pain.
- Liver damage: Excessive intake can impair liver function and lead to liver problems.
Use in naturopathy
In naturopathy, feverfew is mainly used as a tea and tincture to achieve the above-mentioned health-promoting effects. It is often used as an ingredient in tea blends to improve digestion and support the liver.
Conclusion
The feverfew is a remarkable medicinal plant with a long tradition in European herbal medicine. Its multiple effects make it a valuable remedy for aiding digestion, relieving fever and inflammation, and promoting liver health. Although it is generally safe to take, certain groups of people should be careful and not exceed the recommended dosage to avoid side effects. Complementary medicinal plants such as milk thistle and dandelion can enhance the positive effects of feverfew and contribute to a holistic approach to naturopathy.
