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Feverfew Extract

Also known as: Tanacetum parthenium, Matricaria parthenium, feverfew extract, Feverfew

Overview

Feverfew (*Tanacetum parthenium L.*) is an herbal remedy traditionally used to prevent migraine headaches. This plant-derived extract mainly contains parthenolides and sesquiterpene lactones, which are believed to confer therapeutic effects. Despite its historical application in alternative medicine, the scientific evidence supporting feverfew's efficacy is mixed, with systematic reviews showing inconclusive results. Recent research indicates that it may modestly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks, averaging a decrease of about 1.9 attacks per month, primarily based on one substantial clinical trial. However, the overall quality of evidence is low, necessitating further rigorous studies to definitively assess its safety and effectiveness in clinical contexts.

Benefits

The primary benefit of feverfew lies in its ability to potentially prevent migraines. A 2015 systematic review demonstrated an average reduction of approximately 1.9 attacks per month, with a notable decrease of 0.6 attacks compared to placebo. Nonetheless, this effect is largely attributed to a single significant study, while earlier investigations showed inconsistent results. Additionally, secondary outcomes related to migraine intensity and duration have not demonstrated substantial improvement. Notably, the clinical relevance of the observed effect size may vary among individuals, highlighting that while some may benefit, feverfew's overall efficacy remains uncertain in broader populations.

How it works

Feverfew's anti-migraine effects are primarily associated with its active component, parthenolides. These compounds are thought to inhibit the release of serotonin and inflammatory mediators that contribute to migraine pathogenesis. By interfering with these pathways, feverfew may alter vascular dynamics, affecting both vasodilation and constriction. Furthermore, it is suggested that feverfew could influence platelet aggregation and modulate inflammatory responses, contributing to its purported mechanisms in migraine prevention, though the specific molecular interactions need further exploration.

Side effects

Feverfew is typically well-tolerated, with most side effects being mild and transient. Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal upset and mouth ulcers, reported in over 5% of users. Rare events (less than 1%) are usually not serious. Currently, no severe adverse effects are documented in the literature. However, caution is advised concerning potential drug interactions, especially with anticoagulants due to feverfew's anticipated influence on platelet function. It is contraindicated for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and in individuals allergic to plants in the Compositae family. Special care is also recommended for children and the elderly due to limited safety data in these groups.

Dosage

There is no universally defined minimum effective dosage for feverfew, but general recommendations suggest daily doses of 50 to 100 mg of a standardized extract containing 0.7% parthenolides. Variability in dosage stems from different research designs and supplement formulations. Although no strict upper safety threshold is established, doses over 100 mg per day are less frequently studied. Feverfew is intended for daily oral consumption for migraine prevention, with absorption rates varying based on extraction methods and interactions with other compounds.

FAQs

Is feverfew safe to use?

Feverfew is generally regarded as safe with mild gastrointestinal side effects and occasional mouth ulcers reported.

How should feverfew be taken?

Feverfew is best taken daily as a preventive measure against migraines, typically in oral supplement form.

What results can I expect from using feverfew?

While some users may experience a reduction in migraine frequency, the overall effect is modest and varies among individuals.

Can feverfew cure migraines?

No, feverfew is not a cure for migraines; its efficacy is not universally established and varies per individual.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25896062 – This systematic review analyzed the efficacy of feverfew for migraine prevention. It concluded that feverfew may reduce migraine frequency but highlighted the low quality of evidence and variability across studies, necessitating further research.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26266327 – This study assessed the specific compounds in feverfew, identifying parthenolides as key components affecting neurotransmitter regulation and platelet function related to migraine pathophysiology.