Feverfew Flowering Aerial Parts Extract
Also known as: Feverfew, Featherfew, Wild Chamomile, Tanacetum parthenium
Overview
Feverfew (*Tanacetum parthenium*) is a perennial herb traditionally used for its medicinal properties, notably in the prevention of migraines. Native to Europe and Asia, it is now cultivated worldwide. The plant is known for its active compounds, particularly sesquiterpene lactones like parthenolide, alongside flavonoids and essential oils. Feverfew's primary applications include migraine prevention, with secondary uses for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antimicrobial effects. The existing research consists of moderate quality clinical trials, indicating efficacy in migraine prevention while highlighting variability in study outcomes and quality. Overall, feverfew is widely recognized in herbal medicine, though the standardization of its active ingredients remains a critical consideration.
Benefits
Feverfew is primarily known for its role in migraine prevention. Several double-blind, placebo-controlled studies suggest that it can significantly reduce both the frequency and severity of migraines. The strength of evidence is moderate, particularly for individuals who suffer from chronic migraines, as findings from various studies indicate a marked reduction in migraine occurrences. While additional benefits have been noted, including anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, these are supported by less robust evidence. Overall, users may need to consistently use feverfew for several weeks to observe notable benefits, with most studies documenting its effectiveness in comparison to placebo treatments.
How it works
Feverfew's mechanism of action mainly involves the inhibition of serotonin release and platelet aggregation, which are implicated in migraine pathophysiology. This herb influences the nervous system's response, potentially alleviating symptoms associated with migraines. Additionally, parthenolide and other compounds found in feverfew may interact with various cellular targets involved in inflammation and coagulation, though further research is needed to clarify these pathways and their implications for different biological systems.
Side effects
Feverfew is generally considered safe, though mild side effects can occur. Common adverse effects include mouth ulcers and gastrointestinal upset. Uncommon but possible reactions include allergic responses, which may vary in severity. Rarely, severe allergic reactions may happen, notably in individuals with sensitivities. Furthermore, due to its effects on platelets, feverfew may interact with anticoagulant medications, necessitating caution when used concurrently with such drugs. As a precaution, it is advised that individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding avoid feverfew due to potential risks on uterine contractions and fetal development. Additionally, those with bleeding disorders should use feverfew cautiously.
Dosage
For effective utilization, a typical dosage of feverfew ranges from 50-200 mg of dried leaf extract per day, with an emphasis on standardizing the parthenolide content for efficacy. It is recommended that users begin with a minimum effective dose of 50-100 mg and adjust as necessary based on individual response. Consistent daily dosing is crucial for migraine prevention effects, and recommended forms include capsules or tablets, although fresh leaves can be prepared in teas or tinctures. Biocompatibility can vary depending on extraction methods, and while an upper safety limit is not definitively established, caution is advised when exceeding recommended dosages.
FAQs
How consistent should feverfew be taken for best results?
Feverfew should be taken daily for consistent migraine prevention, as its benefits develop over several weeks.
Are there safety concerns with feverfew?
While generally safe for most, feverfew can cause mild side effects and should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
What are the expected results from feverfew?
Many users may experience a reduction in migraine frequency and severity after several weeks of regular use.
Is feverfew effective for treating acute migraines?
No, feverfew is not effective for acute migraine treatment but rather for prevention over time.
How should feverfew be standardized for use?
Standardizing the parthenolide content in feverfew extracts is essential for ensuring consistent efficacy and safety.
Research Sources
- https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-report/final-assessment-report-tanacetum-parthenium-l-schulz-bip-herba-revision-1_en.pdf – This report from the European Medicines Agency assesses the safety and efficacy of feverfew, emphasizing its potential in migraine prevention based on systematic studies, while also discussing the variability in commercial product quality.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11276299/ – This clinical trial highlights feverfew's efficacy in reducing migraine frequency, reinforcing its role as a preventative measure, although it questions the singular efficacy of parthenolide.
- https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/feverfew_MF2614 – This resource provides insights into feverfew's historical uses, chemical composition, and guidelines for its application in herbal medicine, stressing the importance of standardization.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22096324/ – Research outlined here reviews the role of feverfew in migraine management, concluding that, despite variability in response, a majority of participants benefit from its use.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2023.1169629/full – This article discusses current understandings of feverfew's pharmacological effects, particularly parthenolide, and its implications for therapy in migraine prevention and other conditions.