Feverfew
Also known as: Tanacetum parthenium, Wild Chamomile, Featherfew, Chrysanthemum parthenium, Matricaria parthenium, Pyrenthrum parthenium, Leucanthemum parthenium, mutterroot, midsummer daisy, nosebleed, Medieval Aspirin, 18th century Aspirin
Overview
Feverfew is an herb with anti-inflammatory properties used to prevent migraines. It is also claimed to alleviate arthritis, but more research is needed to confirm this effect. Feverfew is most often used to prevent migraines. Feverfew’s effect increases in strength for the first 12 weeks of supplementation, at which point it can be taken indefinitely. Feverfew appears to be effective at reducing the severity and frequency of migraines when supplemented in this way. Limited evidence suggests feverfew supplementation may also reduce the length of a migraine and alleviate the increased sensory sensitivity that occurs during a migraine. Traditionally, feverfew has been used to alleviate arthritis and inflammation. In vitro evidence suggests that feverfew is a very potent anti-inflammatory herb, but limited human evidence suggests supplementation has no effect on rheumatoid arthritis. The active compound in feverfew is called parthenolide. It is responsible for feverfew’s anti-inflammatory effects, and it may also have a potent anti-cancer mechanism. Since no human studies have investigated feverfew in the context of cancer, more research is needed to confirm this effect. Feverfew is safe to supplement, but topical application may result in an allergic reaction. If feverfew supplementation results in reddening or scaly skin, cease supplementation. Pregnant women should not supplement feverfew.
Benefits
Feverfew works primarily through its active compound, parthenolide, which has anti-inflammatory properties. This compound is believed to inhibit the release of certain inflammatory substances in the body, thereby reducing the severity and frequency of migraines. The mechanism by which feverfew may alleviate migraine symptoms involves the modulation of serotonin levels and the inhibition of platelet aggregation, which can contribute to the onset of migraines. Additionally, feverfew may help in reducing the sensory sensitivity that often accompanies migraines.
How it works
Feverfew is most commonly used for its ability to prevent migraines. It has been shown to reduce the severity and frequency of migraine attacks. Some limited evidence suggests that feverfew may also help in reducing the duration of a migraine and alleviate the heightened sensory sensitivity that can occur during an attack. Furthermore, feverfew has been traditionally used to alleviate arthritis and inflammation, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in these areas.
Side effects
The standard adult dose for feverfew supplementation is 100-300 mg of a feverfew supplement containing 0.2%-0.4% parthenolide, taken one to four times a day. Children younger than two should not be given feverfew. The standard feverfew dose for children is based off of a standard adult weight of 150 lbs. For example, if a child weighs 50lbs, the dose is one-third of the adult dose. Liquid and tincture feverfew supplements are sometimes used to alleviate arthritis. The suggested dose is 60 – 120 drops of 1:1 (fluid) supplement or a 1:5 (tincture) supplement, taken twice a day.
Dosage
Feverfew is generally safe to supplement, but topical application may result in an allergic reaction. If feverfew supplementation results in reddening or scaly skin, it is advised to cease supplementation. Pregnant women should not supplement feverfew due to potential safety concerns.
FAQs
What is feverfew used for?
Feverfew is primarily used to prevent migraines and may also help alleviate arthritis and inflammation.
How does feverfew work?
Feverfew works through its active compound, parthenolide, which has anti-inflammatory properties and may help modulate serotonin levels.
What are the side effects of feverfew?
Possible side effects include allergic reactions when applied topically, and it should not be used by pregnant women.
What is the recommended dosage for feverfew?
The standard adult dose is 100-300 mg of a feverfew supplement containing 0.2%-0.4% parthenolide, taken one to four times a day.
