What Is Feverfew Extract?

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is also known as featherfew, midsummer daisy, wild chamomile, flirtwort and febrifuge plant. It is an increasingly popular herbal remedy that is used to treat a number of health conditions. Like many herbal supplements, it is available in a variety of forms, such as a feverfew extract.

History

Feverfew extract is obtained from the leaves of the feverfew herb, a perennial plant that belongs to the daisy family. It is native to Europe, where it has been used for centuries as a folk remedy for a wide range of conditions. The name "feverfew" is believed to derive either from one of its names, "featherfew" (owing to the feathery leaves), or from its traditional use in treating fever. It has since been naturalized in America, where it is widely used in the form of a feverfew extract.

Benefits

The most common, scientifically documented benefit of feverfew extract is in the prophylactic treatment of migraine headaches. Clinical studies show that one of its active chemical constituents, called parthenolide, is effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraine headaches and the associated vomiting and nausea. (See "Additional Resources," below.)

Other Uses

In addition to being used in the treatment of migraines, feverfew extract is also popular for formulating folk remedies for arthritis and rheumatic pain. It is used to treat women's conditions including menstrual pain, PMS symptoms and to ease childbirth. Asthma, skin inflammation, insect bites, toothache and psoriasis are other ailments treated with feverfew extract.

Side Effects

There are a number of side effects associated with taking feverfew extract, including vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, flatulence, indigestion and pain in the abdominal region, as well as general nervousness.

Warning

Feverfew extract should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or children under the age of 2. People who are allergic to yarrow, ragweed or chamomile or any other herb in the daisy family should avoid using this extract. Anyone with a bleeding disorder and/or taking a blood-thinning medication should avoid using feverfew extract.

Considerations

Although feverfew extract is a natural, herbal product, is may cause adverse side effects in different people or may interact with other medications that you are taking. For this reason, it is important to consult with your physician or other licensed health care provider before you begin to self-medicate with feverfew extract. It is also important to get a professional diagnosis to ensure that the ailment you are treating is not a symptom of a more serious, underlying condition.