Feverfew is a perennial in the daisy family originally native to
Europe but now naturalized and cultivated throughout the world,
including much of North America. Because feverfew is commonly grown in
kitchen herb gardens and as an ornamental, its prolific appearance
across the natural landscape demonstrates the ease with which it can
escape cultivation unless confined.
The herb’s common name is adapted from the Latin febrifugia, which historically refers to its traditional use in herbal medicine. Feverfew contains compounds such as the terpene parthenolide, which have been studied for their effects on wellness. Some individuals use feverfew as part of their personal health routines, but long-term use may lead to unwanted effects if intake is suddenly discontinued.
