Feverfew is a perennial herb that is often grown for its small, daisy-like flowers. It has long been used for its medicinal properties. Feverfew is best known for its use in preventing
migraines, but it is also used for a variety of other purposes. It is available in tablets, capsules, and liquid extracts, although many people simply eat the leaves right off the plant.
It is not known exactly how feverfew works. The leaves (the active part of the plant) contain numerous different chemicals that may have medicinal properties. It is thought that the parthenolide component of the plant may be responsible for many of its effects. Parthenolide inhibits several enzymes and chemicals in the body that cause pain, inflammation, and other problems. Specifically, parthenolide may inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and interleukin 1 (IL-1). Several other chemicals in feverfew may contribute to its effects as well.
Feverfew appears to be effective for preventing
migraines, although further research is needed to establish how to safely and effectively use it. The herb has not been shown to be effective for other uses.
The safe and effective dose of feverfew has not yet been established, especially since different products (and even different plants) vary considerably in the content of the active medicinal chemicals.
Many people believe that "natural" products, such as feverfew, have no side effects. However, many natural products can cause side effects, some of which can be quite serious. Feverfew can cause side effects such as:
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Nausea
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal (stomach) bloating and pain
- Canker sores
- Irritation of the mouth, lips, or tongue.
(Click Feverfew Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Feverfew is probably safe for many people at reasonable doses for short periods. Some people may be more likely to experience problems, however. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking this herb if you:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
(Click Feverfew Safety for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not known exactly what to expect from an overdose. If you think you may have taken too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Feverfew Be Stored?
Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how to best store it. Keep feverfew and all other medications or supplements out of the reach of children.
