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Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)
Feverfew is an herb that has been used traditionally for fevers, as its name denotes, although this effect has not been well studied.
Feverfew is most commonly taken by mouth for the prevention of migraine headache. Several human trials have been conducted with mixed results. Overall, these studies suggest that feverfew taken daily as dried leaf capsules may reduce the incidence of headache attacks in patients who experience chronic migraines. However, this research has been poorly designed and reported.
There is currently inconclusive evidence regarding the use of feverfew for symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Feverfew appears to be well tolerated in clinical trials, with a mild and reversible side effects profile. The most common adverse effect appears to be mouth ulceration and inflammation with direct exposure to leaves. In theory, there may be an increased risk of bleeding.
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Uses based on tradition or theory
The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Abdominal pain, anemia, antiangiogenic, anti-inflammatory, asthma, blood vessel dilation (relaxation), breast cancer, cancer, central nervous system diseases, colds, constipation, diarrhea, digestion, dizziness, fever, joint pain, induction of labor/abortion, heart muscle injury, insect bites, insect repellant, leishmaniasis, leukemia, menstrual cramps, neurological complications of malaria, pancreatic cancer, promotion of menstruation, rash, ringing in the ears, skin cancer, toothache, tranquilizer, uterine disorders.
Dosing
The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.
Adults (18 years and older)
2 to 3 dried leaves (approximately 60 milligrams) have been taken daily, or 50 to 250 milligrams of a dried leaf preparation taken daily, standardized to 0.2% parthenolide (a common dose is 125 milligrams daily). Human studies have used 50 to 114 milligrams of feverfew powdered leaves daily, packed into capsules, standardized to 0.2% parthenolide, or 0.50 milligrams of parthenolide daily. Doses of 70 to 86 milligrams of dried chopped feverfew leaves in capsules, taken once daily, have been also used.
Children (younger than 18 years)
There is not enough scientific information to safely recommend feverfew for use in children.
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