Feverfew Benefits: Natural Migraine Relief and Health Properties

Feverfew has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health conditions, particularly migraine headaches. This traditional herb, known scientifically as Tanacetum parthenium, continues to attract attention from researchers and those seeking alternative approaches to health management.

Understanding the potential benefits, limitations, and safety considerations of feverfew can help you make informed decisions about incorporating this herbal remedy into your wellness routine.

What Is Feverfew?

Feverfew is a flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, which also includes daisies, chrysanthemums, and marigolds. The plant features small, white daisy-like flowers and aromatic leaves that have been harvested for medicinal purposes throughout history.

The name “feverfew” originates from the Latin word “febrifugia,” which translates to “fever reducer.” This etymology reflects the plant’s traditional use in treating fevers and various inflammatory conditions. Some historical texts refer to feverfew as “medieval aspirin” due to its widespread use as a pain reliever before modern pharmaceuticals became available.

The plant contains several bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic properties, including:

• Parthenolide – the primary active compound found in the leaves
• Flavonoids – plant compounds with antioxidant properties
• Volatile oils – aromatic compounds that may have biological effects
• Tanetin – another compound that may contribute to anti-inflammatory effects

Among these compounds, parthenolide receives the most scientific attention as researchers believe it may be responsible for many of feverfew’s potential health benefits.

Feverfew Benefits for Migraine Management

The most well-known and researched use of feverfew involves migraine prevention and treatment. Migraine attacks are characterized by moderate to severe headaches that typically affect one side of the head and may be accompanied by throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.

How Feverfew May Work Against Migraines

Laboratory research has identified several mechanisms through which feverfew compounds, particularly parthenolide, may help prevent or reduce migraine attacks:

• Inflammation reduction: Feverfew compounds appear to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are molecules that promote inflammation throughout the body.
• Serotonin regulation: Parthenolide may help regulate serotonin receptors in the brain, which play a role in migraine development.
• Blood vessel effects: The herb may help prevent vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) in the brain, a factor associated with migraine pain.
• Platelet activity: Feverfew may prevent blood platelets from releasing inflammatory molecules that contribute to migraine attacks.
• Muscle relaxation: The herb may help stop smooth muscle spasms that can contribute to headache pain.

What the Research Shows

While laboratory studies show promising mechanisms, human research on feverfew for migraine presents mixed results. A comprehensive review of six studies involving 561 participants found that four studies reported positive effects on migraine frequency and intensity, while two studies found no significant benefit.

However, even in studies showing positive results, the effects were modest. Participants taking feverfew experienced only slightly fewer migraine attacks compared to those taking a placebo – in some cases, as little as 0.6 fewer migraines per month.

This suggests that while feverfew may provide some benefit for migraine sufferers, it should not be considered a cure-all solution. Individual responses may vary, and the herb appears most effective as part of a comprehensive migraine management strategy.

Additional Feverfew Benefits

Beyond migraine relief, feverfew has been investigated for several other potential health applications:

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The anti-inflammatory compounds in feverfew may provide general pain relief beyond headaches. The herb’s ability to inhibit inflammatory pathways makes it a subject of interest for various inflammatory conditions, though more human research is needed to confirm these effects.

Potential Anticancer Properties

Laboratory studies have shown that compounds in feverfew, particularly parthenolide, may inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells. Research has examined its effects on various cancer types in test-tube settings. However, it’s crucial to understand that laboratory results do not necessarily translate to effective cancer treatments in humans, and feverfew should never be used as a substitute for conventional cancer treatment.

Mood Enhancement

Animal studies have suggested that feverfew may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Mice given feverfew extracts showed improved behaviors associated with these conditions. However, no human studies have yet confirmed these effects, so claims about feverfew’s mood-enhancing properties remain speculative.

Skin Health and Rosacea

Topical preparations containing feverfew extract (with parthenolide removed) have shown promise in treating acne rosacea by reducing inflammation in the skin. Parthenolide is removed from topical formulations because it can cause skin irritation when applied directly. Research suggests these preparations may help reduce redness and inflammation associated with rosacea.

Arthritis Symptom Relief

Traditionally, feverfew has been used to help manage arthritis symptoms. The anti-inflammatory properties of the herb theoretically could provide relief from joint pain and stiffness. However, current scientific evidence supporting this use is limited, and more research is needed before feverfew can be recommended specifically for arthritis.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Feverfew is generally considered safe for most people when taken for short periods. Studies examining feverfew use for up to four months have reported few serious adverse effects. However, long-term safety data beyond four months is currently lacking.

Common Side Effects

Some individuals may experience mild side effects when taking feverfew, including:

• Digestive issues such as stomachaches, heartburn, or nausea
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Changes in menstrual patterns
• Mouth sores or inflammation (particularly when chewing fresh leaves)

Who Should Avoid Feverfew

Certain individuals should not use feverfew or should consult with a healthcare provider before doing so:

• Pregnant women: Feverfew may cause uterine contractions and potentially lead to early labor or miscarriage.
• Breastfeeding mothers: Insufficient research exists regarding feverfew’s safety during breastfeeding.
• People with plant allergies: Those allergic to ragweed, daisies, marigolds, chrysanthemums, or other plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family should avoid feverfew as cross-reactions may occur.
• Individuals taking blood thinners: Feverfew may interact with anticoagulant medications, potentially increasing bleeding risk.
• People with liver conditions: The herb may interact with medications metabolized by the liver.
• Those scheduled for surgery: Feverfew should be discontinued at least two weeks before scheduled surgery due to potential effects on blood clotting.

Drug Interactions

Feverfew may interact with various medications. If you’re taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications, consult with your doctor or pharmacist before adding feverfew to your regimen. This is particularly important for individuals taking blood thinners, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or medications processed by the liver.

Feverfew Dosage and Forms

Currently, no official standardized dosage for feverfew exists. However, based on research studies, certain dosage ranges appear most commonly used and studied.

Recommended Dosage Ranges

For migraine prevention, studies typically use feverfew supplements containing 0.2% to 0.4% parthenolide, with doses ranging from 100 to 300 milligrams taken one to four times daily. The effectiveness appears to depend on consistent use over time rather than acute dosing during a migraine attack.

When selecting a feverfew supplement, look for products that specify the parthenolide content, as this helps ensure consistency and quality.

Available Forms

Feverfew is available in several forms:

• Capsules and tablets: The most convenient form for standardized dosing, these typically contain dried feverfew leaf powder or extract.
• Fresh or dried leaves: Traditional use involves chewing 1-2 fresh leaves daily, though this can cause mouth irritation and the dose is less precise.
• Tea: Feverfew tea can be made by steeping dried leaves in hot water. However, the concentration of active compounds in tea is variable and generally lower than in capsule form.
• Liquid extracts and tinctures: These concentrated liquid forms allow for flexible dosing but may have a bitter taste.
• Topical preparations: Creams and lotions containing feverfew extract (usually with parthenolide removed) are used for skin conditions.

Usage Tips

For best results and safety when using feverfew:

• Start with the lowest effective dose and increase gradually if needed
• Take feverfew with food to minimize digestive upset
• Allow several weeks of consistent use before evaluating effectiveness for migraine prevention
• Purchase products from reputable manufacturers that provide third-party testing results
• Store feverfew supplements in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep a symptom diary to track whether feverfew is helping your condition

Choosing Quality Feverfew Products

The quality of herbal supplements can vary significantly between manufacturers. To ensure you’re getting a quality feverfew product:

• Look for products standardized to parthenolide content (typically 0.2% to 0.4%)
• Choose brands that undergo third-party testing for purity and potency
• Check for certifications from organizations like USP (United States Pharmacopeia) or NSF International
• Avoid products with unnecessary fillers, binders, or artificial ingredients
• Read customer reviews and check for any reported quality issues
• Purchase from established retailers with good reputations

Integrating Feverfew into a Migraine Management Plan

If you’re considering feverfew for migraine management, it’s important to view it as one component of a comprehensive approach rather than a standalone solution.

Complementary Strategies

Feverfew may work best when combined with other evidence-based migraine management strategies:

• Identifying and avoiding personal migraine triggers
• Maintaining consistent sleep schedules
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or meditation
• Staying adequately hydrated
• Regular, moderate exercise
• Maintaining stable blood sugar levels through regular meals
• Other dietary supplements that may help prevent migraines, such as magnesium, riboflavin, or coenzyme Q10

Working with Healthcare Providers

Before starting feverfew or any herbal supplement, discuss your plans with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help you:

• Determine if feverfew is appropriate for your specific situation
• Identify potential interactions with your current medications
• Establish realistic expectations about potential benefits
• Monitor your response to treatment
• Adjust your overall migraine management plan as needed

If you decide to try feverfew, give it adequate time to work – at least 4-6 weeks of consistent use – before determining whether it’s effective for you.

The Current State of Feverfew Research

While feverfew has been used traditionally for centuries, modern scientific research on the herb remains somewhat limited. Most studies have been small-scale, and results have been inconsistent.

Research Limitations

Several factors contribute to the mixed evidence regarding feverfew’s effectiveness:

• Variability in products: Different feverfew preparations contain varying amounts of parthenolide and other active compounds, making it difficult to compare studies.
• Study design: Many studies have been small, short-term, or have other methodological limitations.
• Individual variation: People may respond differently to feverfew based on genetic factors, migraine type, and other individual characteristics.
• Placebo effects: The placebo response is particularly strong in migraine studies, making it challenging to determine true treatment effects.

Future Research Directions

To better understand feverfew’s potential benefits and optimal use, future research should focus on:

• Large-scale, well-designed clinical trials
• Standardized feverfew preparations with consistent parthenolide content
• Long-term safety and effectiveness studies
• Identification of which patients are most likely to benefit
• Optimal dosing strategies
• Mechanisms of action in human subjects
• Potential synergies with other treatments

Historical and Traditional Uses

Understanding feverfew’s historical context provides perspective on its modern applications. Ancient Greek and Roman physicians used feverfew to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, fever, and women’s health issues.

During medieval times, feverfew was grown in monastery gardens and used by monks as a remedy for various conditions. The herb was considered so valuable that it was often planted near dwellings for easy access to its medicinal properties.

Traditional herbalists recommended feverfew for conditions including:

• Fevers and chills
• Headaches and migraine
• Arthritis and joint pain
• Digestive complaints
• Menstrual irregularities
• Insect bites and skin irritations

While modern research has focused primarily on feverfew’s effects on migraine, these traditional uses reflect the herb’s longstanding reputation as a versatile medicinal plant.

Frequently Asked Questions About Feverfew

How long does it take for feverfew to work?

Unlike pain relievers that work quickly, feverfew typically requires consistent use over several weeks before benefits become apparent. Most studies evaluate feverfew after at least 4-6 weeks of regular use. If you’re taking feverfew for migraine prevention, you should not expect immediate results.

Can I take feverfew during a migraine attack?

Feverfew is primarily studied for migraine prevention rather than acute treatment. It is not designed to stop a migraine once it has started. For active migraine attacks, consult with your healthcare provider about appropriate treatment options.

Is feverfew safe for children?

Limited research exists on feverfew use in children. The herb should only be given to children under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess the potential risks and benefits for the individual child.

Can I grow feverfew at home?

Yes, feverfew is relatively easy to grow in gardens or containers. However, the concentration of active compounds in home-grown feverfew can vary significantly based on growing conditions, making dosing inconsistent. For medicinal purposes, standardized commercial preparations typically provide more reliable results.

Does feverfew lose effectiveness over time?

Some people report that feverfew becomes less effective with prolonged use, though scientific evidence on this topic is limited. If you find feverfew is no longer helping, consult with your healthcare provider about alternative approaches.

The Bottom Line on Feverfew Benefits

Feverfew represents a traditional herbal remedy with a long history of use, particularly for migraine prevention. While modern research supports some of feverfew’s traditional applications, the evidence remains mixed and the effects appear modest.

For migraine sufferers who have tried other approaches without success, feverfew may be worth considering as part of a comprehensive management strategy. The herb is generally safe for short-term use in most people, with few serious side effects reported in studies.

However, feverfew is not a miracle cure. Research suggests it provides only slightly better results than placebo for migraine prevention, and individual responses vary considerably. Other potential benefits, such as anticancer properties and mood enhancement, require much more research before definitive conclusions can be drawn.

If you’re considering trying feverfew, approach it with realistic expectations and appropriate safety precautions. Work with your healthcare provider to determine if feverfew is appropriate for your situation, ensure it won’t interact with your current medications, and develop a comprehensive plan for monitoring your response to treatment.

As with any health intervention, what works well for one person may not work for another. The decision to use feverfew should be individualized based on your specific health needs, medical history, and personal preferences, ideally made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals.

While we await more definitive research on feverfew’s benefits and optimal use, this ancient herb continues to offer a natural option for those seeking alternative or complementary approaches to health management, particularly for migraine prevention.

Sources:

• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Feverfew: A Systematic Review
• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health – Feverfew
• MedlinePlus – Feverfew Information
• Mayo Clinic – Feverfew for Migraine Prevention
• PubMed – Feverfew for Preventing Migraine
• Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center – Feverfew Overview