Feverfew, despite its name, is not used to reduce fevers. The name actually comes from a breakdown of the word "featherfoil." Instead, it is used for headaches and to treat menstrual difficulties. Studies show that it is effective in preventing migraine headaches. No evidence exists to show that it interacts with any blood pressure medications or has any effect on your blood pressure; however, always check with your doctor before adding this or any herbal supplement to your daily medication routine.
Uses
Feverfew studies focus primarily on migraine headaches. A study publish in "Lancet" in 1988 showed that an extract of feverfew at 6.25 mg taken tree times per day significantly decreased headache frequency, according to New York University Langone Medical Center. This was using a carbon dioxide liquid extract. Other studies into migraines have also shown benefit. A study using an alcohol-based extract failed to find benefit, so the type of feverfew you use may dictate how therapeutic it is.
Drug Interactions
Feverfew does not appear to have any drug interactions with blood pressure medications, but it is wise to check with your doctor and pharmacist before adding it to your daily supplement regimen. This herbal supplement does have interactions with blood thinning medications, such as warfarin, so avoid feverfew if you are on a drug that affects your blood coagulation. It also interacts with nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs by increasing the risk of stomach bleeding that are a side effect of these medications.
Dosages
The dosage that showed benefit in the most positive study was 6.25 mg of liquid carbon dioxide-based feverfew three times per day. Other studies used 80 to 100 mg of powdered whole leaf daily in positive studies. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends a dosage of 100 to 300 mg up to four times per day for migraine headaches. Make sure these supplements contain 0.2 to 0.4 percent parthenolides, the active ingredient in feverfew.
Side Effects
Generally no side effects are noted with feverfew with the exception of mild gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mouth sores can occur from chewing the leaf but are not noted when taking the supplement in capsule form. This herb was often used as a means of abortion in folk medicine, so avoid this medication if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. If you take feverfew for an extended period of time, stopping abruptly can cause a withdrawal syndrome. You might have a headache, anxiety, fatigue and muscle stiffness after stopping this herb.
Member Comments