Raw Feverfew Powder
Also known as: Feverfew, Featherfew, Midsummer Daisy, *Tanacetum parthenium*
Overview
Feverfew (*Tanacetum parthenium*) is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in migraine relief. It is categorized as a botanical dietary supplement containing active compounds like parthenolide, which contributes to its efficacy. Feverfew is predominantly used for preventing migraines, but it also exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. The herb has garnered moderate research attention, with systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials indicating its potential benefits and safety profile. Available in various forms, feverfew is typically consumed as a dried herb or standardized extract, with a focus on maintaining consistency in active ingredient concentrations.
Benefits
Feverfew has demonstrated evidence-based benefits, particularly in migraine prevention. A systematic review by Wider et al. (2015) showed significant reductions in migraine frequency in individuals taking feverfew compared to placebo, with one RCT reporting a decrease in migraine attacks from 4.76 to 2.44 per month. Additionally, studies combining feverfew with magnesium and vitamin B2 showed a 50% reduction in migraines over three months. While some evidence suggests anti-inflammatory effects, studies on its use for rheumatoid arthritis have not shown significant benefits. Overall, its primary efficacy is observed in migraine sufferers, with a notable time course for benefits generally requiring consistent use over several weeks to months.
How it works
The primary active compound in feverfew, parthenolide, is believed to inhibit prostaglandin synthetase, reducing inflammation. This mechanism is significant in alleviating migraine attacks as it affects processes involved in inflammation and platelet aggregation. Parthenolide interacts with cellular pathways that modulate pain and inflammatory responses, thereby contributing to its preventative effects against migraines.
Side effects
Feverfew is generally considered safe, but it can cause mild side effects, especially gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea and vomiting (occurring in over 5% of users). Less common side effects occurring in 1-5% of cases include oral ulcers and sore mouth. Rare side effects, such as allergic reactions, have been reported, but their incidence is low (<1%). Caution is advised for those on anticoagulants due to feverfew's antiplatelet effects. It is contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding individuals and should be avoided by those allergic to the Compositae family. Limited research exists on its safety in children and the elderly, necessitating careful consideration in these populations.
Dosage
The effective dosing for feverfew varies from 50 mg to 143 mg of dried herb per day. Standardized extracts are preferred, usually containing at least 0.2% parthenolide, with optimal dosages between 50-100 mg daily. Research shows that taking feverfew on an empty stomach with water may enhance absorption. While upper dosage limits haven't been firmly established, exceeding 100 mg daily is less common in studies. Consistent usage is necessary to observe benefits, typically arising after several weeks or months of regular intake.
FAQs
Is feverfew safe for everyone?
Feverfew is generally safe but may cause gastrointestinal side effects and should be used cautiously in people with allergies or on anticoagulant medications.
How should I take feverfew?
Take feverfew on an empty stomach with plenty of water to enhance its bioavailability.
When will I notice results from feverfew?
Expect reduced migraine frequency after several weeks to months of consistent use.
Is feverfew a cure for migraines?
Feverfew is not a cure but a preventive measure. It requires consistent use to see results.
Research Sources
- https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD002286.pub3/references – This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of feverfew in preventing migraines, indicating significant reductions in attack frequency in various studies. It examines over 200 participants, highlighting the consistency of results across research.
- https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/feverfew – The Mount Sinai resource details feverfew's efficacy in migraine treatment, focusing on studies showing its potential when combined with magnesium and vitamin B2. It emphasizes the importance of effective dosages for therapeutic outcomes.
- https://medcraveonline.com/PPIJ/PPIJ-02-00031 – This publication discusses the pharmacological effects of feverfew, covering its active compounds and potential therapeutic benefits, especially in migraine prevention and inflammation reduction.
- https://www.fitoterapia.net/archivos/201910/draft-assessment-report-tanacetum-parthenium-l-schultz-bip-herba-revision-1_en.pdf?1 – The assessment report reviews feverfew's various applications and highlights its mechanisms of action, particularly related to migraine prevention and its active components.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11276299/ – This study presents findings on feverfew's effectiveness in reducing headache frequency and intensity in randomized trials, emphasizing its potential in therapeutic contexts alongside considerations for patient safety.
