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Feverfew

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Migraine headaches - Fever reduction - Arthritis - Easing muscle tension

Clinical Applications/Research

Feverfew

Feverfew is a member of the sunflower family and grows in many gardens in Europe as well as the United States. Its benefit in the garden is as a natural insecticide and herbicide. The bark, dried flowers and leaves are used for many medicinal purposes. Its name is derived from the Latin, "febrifugia," or fever reducer. Its reputation for relieving headaches have led some to propose calling it, "headache-few." Other uses of this herb include: relieving indigestion, easing muscle tension and expelling worms. Feverfew contains a compound called parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone, which helps to control the expansion and contraction of blood vessels in the brain. Since migraine headaches are caused by abnormal contraction and expansion of brain blood vessels, feverfew is helpful, but only as a preventive over a long period of time (may not relieve a migraine in progress) (Wild, R., ed. The Complete Book of Natural and Medicinal Cures. 1994. Rodale Press, Emmaus, Pa. p. 295). Parthenolide is a spasmolytic compound, which means that it makes the smooth muscle cells in the walls of blood vessels less reactive to substances like norepinephrine, prostaglandins, and serotonin (which can cause vasoconstriction and pain in cerebral vessels). "In the 1970's, persons unable to obtain relief from the painful symptoms of migraine and arthritis by conventional means began to turn to feverfew as an alternative therapy…considerable evidence has now been obtained from studies with fresh whole leaves, freeze-dried powdered leaves, and leaf extracts to confirm feverfew's effectiveness in such cases" (Tyler, V. The Honest Herbal. Pharm. Prod. Press, NY, NY, 1993). Other less supported claims for feverfew are that it relieves menstrual cramps and arthritic inflammation (Wild, R. ibid).

Suggested Dosage

100-200 mg three times daily or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Contraindications/Toxicology

No reports of serious toxicity. Do not take during pregnancy. Do not combine with Coumadin or other strong anticoagulants, due to feverfews slight capability of inhibiting the activity of blood-clotting cells known as platelets.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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