Feverfew Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide
Feverfew is used to prevent migraines, reduce inflammation, and support overall headache relief.
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a daisy-like plant traditionally used for headache relief and inflammation. Native to Europe, it has been employed for centuries as a natural remedy for migraines and arthritis.
Its main active compound, parthenolide, is believed to help regulate serotonin and reduce inflammation in blood vessels. Feverfew is commonly taken in capsule or dried leaf form.
Feverfew is primarily used to prevent migraines and ease pain. While some studies support its efficacy, especially with long-term use, results are mixed and further research is needed.
Other names & forms of Feverfew supplement : tanacetum parthenium, featherfew, bachelor's buttons, feverfew extract
Benefits
Feverfew contains parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone that inhibits inflammatory mediators and helps prevent migraine-related neuroinflammation.
- Traditionally used to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines, supporting Pain Relief.
- May help manage tension headaches and mild inflammatory discomfort.
- Offers antioxidant properties that may contribute to Anti-Aging.
Dosage
The Feverfew supplement dosage is personalized to meet individual health needs and medical advice:
- Migraine and inflammation: 100–300 mg/day of Feverfew extract (standardized to 0.2–0.4% parthenolide).
- Whole leaf form: 1–3 dried leaves/day, often in capsules or tea.
- Prevention: Daily use recommended for migraine prophylaxis.
- Recommendation: Avoid during pregnancy; gradual discontinuation advised.
Side Effects
Feverfew can help alleviate migraine symptoms, but some users feel mild effects as their body adjusts. Keep an eye out for:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort—nausea, abdominal cramps, or diarrhea
- Possible mouth ulcers or irritation when chewing fresh leaves
- Occasional headache or dizziness during initial use
- Mild joint stiffness or muscle aches in sensitive individuals
- Rare allergic reactions—rash or itching—in those sensitive to Asteraceae family plants
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents: Feverfew’s parthenolide may enhance warfarin or supplements like Garlic, increasing bleeding risk—monitor coagulation.
- Migraine medications (triptans): Feverfew may interact with serotonin agonists like sumatriptan; consult your provider if you have migraine treatments.
- NSAIDs: Combined anti-inflammatory effects with ibuprofen or Turmeric & Curcumin may raise GI irritation risk.
- Sedatives: Its mild calming effects can potentiate GABAergic herbs like Valerian, leading to increased drowsiness.
Precautions
Before you start Feverfew, confirm that you’re not in one of these precautionary categories. If you are, consult your healthcare provider:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: May stimulate uterine contractions; best to avoid during pregnancy
- Individuals with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulants: Feverfew can increase bleeding risk; monitor clotting parameters
- People with gastrointestinal ulcers: May irritate the lining; use with caution or avoid if severe
- Those scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior—possible increased bleeding and interaction with anesthesia
- Individuals with ragweed allergies: High risk of cross-reactive allergic reactions; avoid
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Feverfew benefits:
A 2000 meta‐analysis of seven RCTs found feverfew (50–100 mg/day) reduces migraine attack frequency by 1.6 attacks/month versus placebo (P < 0.05) but noted significant heterogeneity.
A 2009 double‐blind RCT in 87 migraineurs reported Parthenolide‐free feverfew (4 mg t.i.d.) did not differ from placebo in reduction of headache days over 16 weeks (ns).
A 2021 randomized trial comparing feverfew (100 mg/day) to propranolol (80 mg/day) for 12 weeks found both reduced migraine frequency by ~30%, with no significant difference but fewer adverse events in the herb group.
Despite traditional prophylactic use, no recent large RCTs have assessed feverfew’s effects on cluster headaches or tension‐type headaches.
This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.
Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Feverfew supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.