Feverfew and migraines

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Feverfew and migraines

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is an herb that has been used for years to prevent migraines. It was thought that feverfew was effective. But the evidence that has been collected now seems to show that feverfew doesn't work any better than placebo in preventing migraine headaches.¹

Feverfew is available as dried leaf powder, tablet, capsule, and tea. If you would like to try feverfew to help prevent your migraine headaches, it is important to find feverfew that has been standardized—which means you receive the same amount of active ingredient in every dose—with guaranteed potency.

Side effects of feverfew are usually mild but can include stomach upset and allergic reaction, such as a skin rash. People who chew on the feverfew leaves sometimes develop open sores (ulcers) in the mouth. Feverfew is not recommended for use by young children or by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Be sure to tell your doctor before you take feverfew. Like any drug, it can interact with other medications you may be taking or affect your health in ways you may not be aware of.

References

Citations

1. Pittler MH, Ernst E (2006). Feverfew for preventing migraine. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (4). Oxford: Update Software.

Credits

Last updated:	July 03, 2007
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine, Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC