Feverfew, a preventative herbal medicine for migraines

Where does Feverfew come from?

Feverfew is a member of the flower family that includes daisies and sunflowers.

Feverfew plants give off a strong, aromatic odor and in the Middle Ages this herbal plant was used as an insect repellant and an air purifier.

How can Feverfew help me?

For centuries, Feverfew was used to relieve headaches, stomach ailments and menstrual irregularities. Feverfew’s popularity increased in Great Britain in the 1980’s as an alternative to prescribed medicine for migraines.

Feverfew can decrease the intensity, duration and frequency of migraines. This herbal medicine can also prevent a headache becoming a migraine if taken at the onset of the headache.

Feverfew is also used to relieve the pain and inflammation of arthritis. Feverfew contains certain chemicals that are thought to prevent blood components called platelets from releasing inflammatory substances.

This herbal medicine also inhibits the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that can cause pain and inflammation. Excess prostaglandins cause menstrual cramps, therefore Feverfew is a popular herb for women suffering from the discomfort of menstrual cramps.

If I am already on medicine, what are the interactions or side effects I need to know about when using Feverfew?

Please consult your medical practitioner prior to using any herbal medications should you be under their care.

There have been reports of mouth sores, but this occurs only when chewing the fresh leaves of the Feverfew plant.

If a rash occurs after skin contact with the Feverfew plant, it is recommended that you do not use Feverfew internally, as it might cause a severe allergic reaction.

People using blood thinning medication such as Warfarin should not use Feverfew as this herb prevents the dilation of blood vessels, which will counteract the blood thinning medication.

If you have been taking Feverfew for more than a week, do not suddenly discontinue use as it might cause rebound headaches.

How do I take Feverfew?

For migraine prevention, a dose of 250mg a day is required. Feverfew needs to be taken daily for an extended period of time to be effective and to prevent the return of migraines