Organic Feverfew
Also known as: Feverfew, Chrysanthemum parthenium, Bachelor's buttons, Tanacetum parthenium
Overview
Feverfew (*Tanacetum parthenium*) is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, commonly utilized in traditional medicine for managing fevers, headaches, and inflammatory conditions. The herb is primarily renowned for its anti-inflammatory and anti-migraine properties, largely attributed to sesquiterpene lactones such as parthenolide, its main bioactive compound. Feverfew is available in various forms, including dried leaves and standardized extracts, and is noted for its effectiveness in migraine prevention, pain relief, and reducing inflammation. The body of research surrounding feverfew is moderate, with multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrating positive outcomes, although larger-scale studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety fully. Despite the encouraging evidence, there exists variability in study designs and outcomes, highlighting the necessity for caution in its clinical application.
Benefits
Feverfew has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits, particularly in the management of migraines. Systematic reviews indicate it is effective in reducing both the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks, with one review showing a decrease in headache frequency from 4.76 to 2.44 per month when compared to placebo. Additionally, studies suggest feverfew exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, although comprehensive human studies are limited. The herb is most beneficial for adults experiencing frequent or severe migraines, with its effects becoming notable after several months of continuous use. Its moderate effectiveness is reinforced by quality studies, making it a relevant option in migraine management.
How it works
Feverfew's efficacy primarily stems from its active compound, parthenolide, which inhibits the synthesis of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This process alleviates pain and inflammation in migraineurs. Parthenolide also exhibits antiplatelet and vasodilatory properties, influencing the vascular and nervous systems. Through these biological pathways, feverfew effectively reduces the symptoms and frequency of migraine attacks.
Side effects
Feverfew is generally considered safe, with the most common side effects being mild gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea and vomiting, observed in more than 5% of users. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include mouth ulcers and gastrointestinal upset. Rarely (<1%), allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis, have been reported. Caution is advised when feverfew is consumed alongside anticoagulant medications due to its potential antiplatelet effects. Moreover, it is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Use in children and adolescents requires medical supervision, given the limited safety data in these populations.
Dosage
The recommended dosages of feverfew typically range from 50 to 100 mg of dried leaves per day, with higher doses reaching up to 143 mg observed in clinical studies. Continuous daily use is advised for optimal migraine prevention, with benefits becoming apparent over 4-6 months of treatment. While there is no established maximum safe dose, exceeding 200 mg daily is uncommon in studies. Standardized extracts with a parthenolide concentration of at least 0.7% are preferred to ensure consistent therapeutic outcomes. Food may enhance absorption, although specific data on how it influences bioavailability are limited.
FAQs
Is feverfew safe to use?
Feverfew is generally considered safe for most adults but can cause mild gastrointestinal side effects. It may interact with anticoagulants, so consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.
How should I take feverfew?
Feverfew should be taken daily for migraine prevention, usually in dosages of 50-100 mg. It's best used continuously over several months to observe benefits.
When can I expect to see results from feverfew?
Benefits, particularly in migraine frequency reduction, are typically observed after several months of consistent use, usually between 4 to 6 months.
Is feverfew a cure for migraines?
No, feverfew is not a cure but a preventive measure for migraines. It should complement, not replace, medical treatment.
Research Sources
- https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD002286.pub3/references – A systematic review assessing the efficacy of feverfew in migraine prevention found it superior to placebo in several trials, suggesting its moderate effectiveness despite limitations related to small sample sizes.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11276299/ – This study reports findings from various RCTs indicating feverfew's potential in reducing migraine frequency and intensity, with adverse effects being mild and transient.
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/public-health-nutrition/article/efficacy-and-safety-of-feverfew-tanacetum-parthenium-l-an-update-of-a-systematic-review/58D33D08C23C4F4C9625DBD3470A43C0 – An updated systematic review confirms feverfew is likely effective for preventing migraines, though challenges remain in variations in study design and sample size.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/feverfew – This article summarizes feverfew's uses, safety, side effects, and recommended dosages, emphasizing its role in managing migraines.
- https://phcogrev.com/article/2011/5/9/1041030973-784779105 – A comprehensive review discusses the pharmacological effects of feverfew, including its anti-inflammatory and anti-migraine activities, supported by various clinical trials and observational studies.
