Migraines are severe recurring head pains that may be associated with nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, visual problems, nervousness and increased sensitivity to light, smell or noise. A variety of alternative and complimentary therapies have been evaluated for managing migraines, and feverfew is an example of medicinal herb that appears to help improve this condition. If you suffer from migraines and consider taking feverfew you should first talk to your doctor.
About Feverfew
Feverfew, scientifically known as Tanacetum parthenium is a perennial plant form sunflower family that has a long history in folk medicine, been used especially for fever, arthritis and migraines. It is native to Europe and now cultivated in North America, Europe and Australia, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. Parthenolide, one of the key active ingredients of feverfew appear to be responsible for the benefits of this herb in managing migraines because it helps to relax the blood vessels of the brain and reduce inflammation, says UMMC.
Research
A research team from The New York Headache Center, New York evaluated the benefits of various natural supplements and diets for the management of migraines. Based on their study published in "The Clinical Journal of Pain "dated June, 2009 they recommend elimination of foods triggers supplements and feverfew, as well as few other supplements and herbs for the preventive treatment of migraines.
According to another study form January 2008 issue of "Current Treatment Options in Neurology" the authors discuss several alternative therapies for preventing migraines. Firstly life style modifications with regular sleep, exercise, stress management and relaxation techniques are recommended. If these changes fail to improve the attacks of headaches, patients can choose supplements, including feverfew, vitamin B2 and coenzyme Q10, that are supported by research studies, suggest the authors of this study.
University of Maryland, Medical Center also notes few positive studies that evaluated feverfew for migraines, either used alone or in combination with white willow, vitamin B2 and magnesium.
Safety
Supplementation with feverfew should be done under medical supervision. Feverfew may cause allergic reaction in susceptible individuals. Other side effects like nausea, stomach pain, excessive gas, diarrhea and irritability may occur. Feverfew may interact with some conventional drugs, especially blood thinners like aspirin and warfarin. The safety of feverfew supplementation in children less than 2 years of age and pregnant women is not fully assessed, thus it should be avoided in these situations.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care professional to find out more about supplementation with feverfew, optimal dosage and drug and herb interactions. Keep in mind that feverfew does not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs prescribed for headache migraines.
References
- University of Maryland, Medical Center: Migraine Headache
- University of Maryland: Feverfew
- "The Clinical Journal of Pain"; Foods and Supplements in the Management of Migraine Headaches; Sun-Edelstein et al; June, 2009
- "Current Treatment Options in Neurology"; Update on the Prophylaxis of Migraine; M.Schurks etal; January, 2009
