Feverfew Powder
Also known as: Feverfew, Bachelor's Buttons, Chrysanthemum parthenium, Matricaria parthenium, Tanacetum parthenium L.
Overview
Feverfew, scientifically known as *Tanacetum parthenium L.*, is a perennial herb traditionally utilized for its medicinal properties, particularly in the management of migraine headaches. The plant contains several active compounds, with parthenolide being the most studied for its therapeutic effects. Feverfew is available in multiple forms, including powdered extracts, capsules, and standardized pills. Research indicates moderate support for its effectiveness in reducing the frequency of migraine occurrences, with some studies outlining its capability to lessen attack frequency by an average of 0.6 attacks per month. However, the response rate may vary considerably due to differences in formulation and preparation, warranting cautious use. Despite showing potential in migraine prevention, feverfew's impact on the severity and duration of migraines is less pronounced, leading to variability in user experiences.
Benefits
Feverfew is chiefly recognized for its role in migraine prevention. A systematic review published by Cochrane indicates that patients taking feverfew experienced a reduction in migraine frequency from an average of 4.8 attacks per month to 2.9, compared to 3.5 in the placebo group. This suggests a clinically relevant benefit, especially for those with episodic migraines. However, while some users report improvements, the effect size is modest, and secondary measures, such as the intensity and duration of attacks, have not shown significant change. The primary beneficiaries of feverfew are individuals suffering from frequent migraines, particularly those without major contributing factors.
How it works
Feverfew’s primary mechanism of action involves its bioactive component, parthenolide, which inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This inhibition may help attenuate pain signaling and reduce inflammatory responses associated with migraines. Furthermore, parthenolide suppresses serotonin release from platelets, which is a critical factor in the pathophysiology of migraine conditions. While the precise molecular targets of parthenolide require further elucidation, improving formulation stability can enhance its bioavailability, thereby potentially increasing its therapeutic effectiveness.
Side effects
Feverfew is typically well-tolerated, with most side effects being mild and temporary. Reported adverse effects include gastrointestinal upset and oral ulcers, affecting over 5% of users. No severe or rare complications have been documented in clinical studies. However, caution is advised for individuals on anticoagulant therapies due to feverfew's antiplatelet properties. Additionally, feverfew is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data, and individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as ragweed) should avoid its use. Users should consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially if they have existing health conditions or are on medications.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of feverfew for migraine prevention generally ranges from 50 mg to 143 mg daily, as supported by clinical trials. A common finding suggests a dosage of 50 to 100 mg of a standardized extract, rich in parthenolide, as optimal for efficacy. It is crucial for users to maintain consistent daily intake over several months to gauge effectiveness adequately. While there is no universally established upper limit for safety, doses of up to 143 mg per day have been tolerated well by most individuals. To enhance efficacy, formulations that improve bioavailability, such as MIG-99, are recommended for reliable results.
FAQs
Is feverfew safe to use?
Feverfew is generally safe for most people, but some may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms or mouth ulcers. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
How should I take feverfew for migraines?
Feverfew should be taken daily over a period of several months to see a reduction in migraine frequency, typically at a dosage of 50-100 mg per day.
What results can I expect from using feverfew?
Users can expect a modest average reduction of approximately 0.6 migraine attacks per month compared to a placebo, with effects more pronounced over time.
Does feverfew cure migraines?
Feverfew does not cure migraines; it is a preventive measure and does not significantly affect the intensity or duration of migraine attacks once they occur.
Research Sources
- https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD002611.pub2/full – A systematic review and meta-analysis examining the efficacy and safety of feverfew for migraine prophylaxis. The review indicates that feverfew may significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks compared to placebo, although additional research is required to confirm these findings and clarify the mechanisms involved.