Feverfew
- Latin
- Tanacetum parthenium
Feverfew is a daisy-family herb studied mainly for migraine prevention. Results are mixed, the average benefit appears small, and product standardization matters because parthenolide content varies.
Also Known As
Latin: Tanacetum parthenium
Traditional Context
Feverfew is not a classical Traditional Chinese Medicine material. Its historical use is rooted in European herbal medicine.
Primary Actions
- Traditionally used for fever and headache
- Traditionally used for menstrual discomfort
Secondary Actions
- Historically used for inflammatory and digestive complaints
Classical References
- European herbal medicine tradition
Modern Research
Active Compounds
- Parthenolide
- Sesquiterpene lactones
- Flavonoids
Studied Effects
- Migraine prevention, with low-quality and inconsistent evidence
- Platelet activity and bleeding risk
- Inflammatory signaling in laboratory research
PubMed References
Safety & Interactions
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Known allergy to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, or related plants
- Use before scheduled surgery
Cautions
- Feverfew may slow blood clotting and should be stopped before surgery.
- Chewing fresh leaves can cause mouth sores and irritation.
- Abrupt discontinuation after long-term use has been associated with stiffness, anxiety, and pain.
Drug Interactions
Feverfew may add to the effects of anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicines. Laboratory research also suggests inhibition of several CYP enzymes, but the clinical importance of those metabolism findings is not known.
- Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medicines … Parthenolide can inhibit platelet activity and may increase bleeding risk. (Major) Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs
- CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4 substrate medicines … Laboratory inhibition may alter drug concentrations, but clinical relevance is not known. (Uncertain) Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs
Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Feverfew used for?
Feverfew is traditionally used to Traditionally used for fever and headache, Traditionally used for menstrual discomfort. Research has investigated its effects on: Migraine prevention, with low-quality and inconsistent evidence; Platelet activity and bleeding risk.
What are other names for Feverfew?
Feverfew is also known as Featherfew, Bachelor's Buttons. In TCM: Tanacetum parthenium.
Is Feverfew safe during pregnancy?
Feverfew is not recommended during pregnancy.
What are the contraindications for Feverfew?
Feverfew should not be used in: Pregnancy; Known allergy to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, or related plants; Use before scheduled surgery. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Does Feverfew interact with any medications?
Feverfew may interact with: Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medicines - Parthenolide can inhibit platelet activity and may increase bleeding risk. - (Major severity); CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4 substrate medicines - Laboratory inhibition may alter drug concentrations, but clinical relevance is not known. - (Uncertain severity). Always inform your healthcare provider of any herbal supplements you are taking.