| Back | Herbal Archives | |
Fenugreek
 |
Fenugreek, also known as Bird's Foot and Greek Hay-seed, is indigenous to the Eastern Mediterranean area, India, Africa, Egypt and Morocco. The name Fenugreek comes from the Greek Foenum-graecum, meaning Greek Hay. The medicinal properties of the herb are derived from its seeds. Fenugreek is particularly useful in the treatment of Atherosclerosis, constipation and other intestinal ailments, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Externally, fenugreek poultices have been used over a period of thousands of years for the treatment of wounds and boils. Fenugreek is also effective in increasing the milk supply of nursing mothers. It is considered an extremely safe herb, although more than 100 grams of seeds daily may occasionally cause intestinal upset and nausea. |
Feverfew
 |
Feverfew (bachelor buttons),an aromatic perennial herb native to southern Europe, was traditionally used by herbalists to reduce fevers and headaches. Today it is well known as a deterrent and treatment for migraine headaches when taken in small amounts on a daily basis over a period of time. Its active ingredient, parthenoilide, affects the release of serotonin while reducing histamines and prostaglandins that are associated with inflammation. As a result, it reduces the constriction of blood vessels that cause spasms and headaches. In folk medicine, feverfew is recognized as a general tonic and blood purifier that also improves digestion and kidney function, reduces the swelling of arthritis, eases pain of menstrual cramps, lessens postnatal bleeding, controls blood pressure, and clears intestinal parasites. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. |
Copyright 2022 - Lyn Hopkins