Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a medicinal herb from the Asteraceae family that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It can be used to prevent migraines and reduce inflammation. Its main active compound is parthenolide, which contains anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Feverfew naturally contains flavonoids, volatile oils, and lactones which contribute to its health benefits. Studies suggest that feverfew may help with headaches, inflammation, anxiety, and even liver protection, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Feverfew is available in different forms, such as dried leaves, teas, capsules, and topical preparations. It offers several potential benefits but can also cause allergic reactions or interact with certain medications. You should speak to your doctor or medicinal plant specialist before using feverfew for health purposes.
Health benefits
Some health benefits that feverfew can provide include:
1. Helping to prevent migraines
Feverfew is best known for helping prevent migraine attacks. Studies show that regular use may reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches. Parthenolide, its main compound, works by blocking the release of serotonin and prostaglandins, which are involved in inflammation and blood vessel constriction in the brain.
2. Reducing inflammation
The plant has strong anti-inflammatory effects due to parthenolide, which blocks important molecules in the body’s inflammatory response. This helps decrease the production of inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins, supporting relief from swelling and pain.
3. Supporting skin health
Parthenolide-free feverfew extracts can help protect the skin from UV rays and oxidative stress. Research shows that they promote DNA repair and reduce redness and irritation, which makes them useful in products for sensitive skin or conditions such as rosacea.
4. May have anticancer potential
Laboratory studies suggest that parthenolide may cause apoptosis (cell death) in certain cancer cells, including leukemia, breast, and cervical cancer, while sparing healthy cells. These effects appear to be related to its ability to produce reactive oxygen species and block signaling pathways linked to cancer growth.
5. Promoting liver protection
Animal studies indicate that feverfew extract may protect the liver from chemical damage, helping normalize enzyme levels and reduce oxidative stress. This effect is believed to come from its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.
6. May reduce anxiety and improve mood
Research in animals has found that aqueous extracts of feverfew have mild calming and mood-enhancing effects. These benefits may be related to changes in neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.
How to use it
The way feverfew is used depends on the form obtained:
1. Capsules and tablets
Capsules and tablets are the most common and reliable ways to take feverfew. Standardized doses of 50 to 150 mg per day of dried leaf extract are typically used for migraine prevention. Each dose should contain between 0.2% and 0.4% parthenolide, according to recommendations from the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
2. Tea
Feverfew tea can be prepared by steeping 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves in hot water for about 10 minutes. It is usually taken once or twice a day, although it has a naturally bitter taste.
Because the amount of active compounds can vary, capsules are generally preferred for consistent dosing.
3. Fresh leaves
Some people chew one or two fresh feverfew leaves daily to help prevent migraines. However, this method can cause mouth irritation and ulcers, so using supplements is usually a safer option.
4. Topical preparations
Parthenolide-free feverfew extracts are used in creams and serums to calm irritated skin and protect against oxidative damage. These products are considered safe for sensitive skin and can be applied once or twice a day.
Side effects and contraindications
Feverfew is generally safe for most people, but mild side effects such as mouth sores, nausea, bloating, or digestive upset can occur. Allergic reactions, including contact dermatitis, may happen in individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family, such as chamomile or daisies.
Because feverfew may have antiplatelet effects, it should be avoided by people taking blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin, or those preparing for surgery. It is also not recommended during pregnancy, as animal studies suggest it may cause uterine contractions or affect fetal development.
Stopping feverfew suddenly after long-term use can trigger rebound headaches, anxiety, or insomnia, a reaction sometimes called “post-feverfew syndrome.” For safety, it should be discontinued gradually under medical supervision.
Storage and quality considerations
Parthenolide is sensitive to heat and moisture, so feverfew supplements should be stored in a cool, dry place. Studies show that parthenolide can degrade by up to 30–40% if stored improperly, which reduces the product’s potency over time.