Migraine sufferers often try a number of medications to ease their painful headaches. Before trying these medications, you may choose to try an herbal remedy called feverfew. Feverfew is a plant related to sunflowers, and you can find the plants growing in the wild, as well as in many gardens. Feverfew contains parthenolide which some people believe prevents the blood vessels in the brain from constricting, a common cause of migraines, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Feverfew comes in tablets, capsules and liquid form. Using tablets or capsules may offer the easiest approach, but each type should contain 0.2 percent parthenolide, the migraine-relieving component. Trying feverfew may help you find non-medication relief from your migraine headaches.
Step 1
Discuss the potential benefits and possible complications of using feverfew with your health care provider. Feverfew may interact with your current medications or other supplements. Reviewing the pills, supplements and your overall health with your doctor will help determine if feverfew is the best choice for your health needs.
Step 2
Take recommended dose of feverfew each day. You should take between 100 and 300mg of feverfew, four times daily, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you have a child who experiences migraines, discuss the use of feverfew with your child's pediatrician before starting the supplements, as well as to determine the proper dosage.
Step 3
Watch for side effects or reactions. Despite its natural quality, you may experience side effects from using feverfew. You may experience abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Feverfew may increase the effects of blood-thinning medication, and if you take such medications or have a blood disorder you may have an increased risk for bleeding.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid stopping feverfew suddenly since this may lead to withdrawal, resulting in additional headaches, joint pain, muscle weakness and fatigue, says the University of Maryland Medical Center.
- Frequent, severe migraines may indicate a medical condition, and doctors will perform testing to determine the cause of your migraines, says MayoClinic.com. If you experience these headaches, contact your health provider for an evaluation.
Things You'll Need
- Feverfew capsules or tablets
