Feverfew, an herb used to treat women's health conditions since ancient times, has gained new popularity in recent years as research has indicated that it may be effective in preventing migraines. More research is needed to confirm this, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take feverfew as no research is available on how it might affect them. Tylenol is one among many brands of acetaminophen, which is also used to treat migraines, often in combination with aspirin and caffeine. Both medications cause side effects in some people. Deciding which to use is up to you, but the decision should be made in consultation with your health care provider.
What Is Feverfew?
Feverfew is a daisy-like plant that is native to Europe and grows wild alongside roads and around abandoned buildings, according to "The Consumer's Guide to Herbal Medicine." Its leaves contain a substance called parthenolide, which is thought to be the main active ingredient. It also contains melatonin and may contain other components as well. Women have used feverfew since ancient times to initiate menstruation and to help expel the placenta after childbirth. Feverfew has also been used to treat arthritis and headaches. Recent research suggests that regular use of feverfew may prevent migraines.
Feverfew Dosing
To prevent migraines, chew two leaves or swallow two 400-mg tablets three times daily. The amount of parthenolide in feverfew tablets varies, but a daily dose of 250 mcg of this active ingredient is recommended. You can also take doses of four to eight ml of the liquid leaf extract, says "The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines."
Feverfew Cautions
Feverfew appears to be relatively safe when taken in the recommended amounts. However, between 10 and 18 percent of subjects in clinical trials have had adverse reactions, according to "The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines." The most common side effect is mouth ulcers. Some people who stop taking feverfew develop a withdrawal syndrome that includes nervousness, tension headaches, joint stiffness and tiredness. People who are allergic to other plants of the daisy family, such as chamomile or ragweed, should not take feverfew.
What Is Tylenol?
Tylenol is a brand of acetaminophen--a non-aspirin pain reliever and fever reducer. Acetaminophen relieves mild or moderate pain from headaches, muscle aches, menstrual periods, colds, sore throats, toothaches, backaches and reactions to vaccinations. It cools the body and changes the way it senses pain, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. However, it does not reduce swelling, says MedlinePlus. Acetaminophen is easier on the stomach than other pain medications and is safer for children, but taking more than the recommended dose may harm the liver.
Acetaminophen Availability
Acetaminophen is available in tablet, chewable tablet, capsule, suspension, drop, extended-release tablet, orally disintegrating tablet and suppository form. It is available without a prescription and may be an ingredient in other nonprescription and prescription drugs. When taking acetaminophen, follow label directions and do not take more than one acetaminophen-containing drug at a time, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Acetaminophen Cautions
Some people are allergic to acetaminophen. Possible side effects are rashes, hives, itching, swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lip, eyes, hands, feet, ankles and lower legs, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Symptoms of an acetaminophen overdose include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, extreme tiredness, unusual bleeding or bruising, pain in the upper right stomach, yellowing of the skin or eyes and flu-like symptoms.
References
- "The Consumer's Guide to Herbal Medicine"; Steven B. Karch, M.D.; 1999
- "The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines"; Andrea Peirce; 1999
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: Acetaminophen
- MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Pain Medications
