Feverfew

Background

• Feverfew is a perennial plant with leaves that look like those of chrysanthemum and flowers that look like daisies.
• Feverfew is native to parts of western Asia and the Balkans, but it now grows throughout the world.
• Traditionally, people have used feverfew for a variety of purposes, including respiratory disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, menstrual disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, tinnitus, earache, fever, infertility, and anemia. 
• Feverfew is currently promoted for migraine headaches, blood vessel relaxation, minor pain (especially in the head, such as tension headaches), and joint support. Topically (applied to the skin), feverfew is promoted to provide relief from itching and skin irritation.
• Feverfew (also known as European feverfew) is different from American feverfew (Parthenium integrifolium), a plant native to the eastern United States.

How Much Do We Know?

• Some studies in people have looked into feverfew’s use as a remedy for migraine headache. For instance, a 2020 review looked at 7 studies of feverfew for migraine, which included a total of 634 participants. The studies, which were small and used different sources and dosage levels of feverfew, showed inconsistent findings. 
• There’s little or no evidence about feverfew for any other health conditions.

What Have We Learned?

• Some research suggests that feverfew may help prevent migraine headaches, but results have been mixed. Some research suggests it may reduce migraine headache frequency, as well as some symptoms, such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and light and noise sensitivity.
• There’s not enough evidence to know if feverfew is helpful for other conditions. 

What Do We Know About Safety?

• No serious side effects have been reported from feverfew use. Side effects can include nausea, digestive problems, and bloating. If the fresh leaves are chewed, sores and irritation of the mouth may occur. 
• People who are sensitive to ragweed and related plants may have allergic reactions to feverfew.
• Using feverfew topically may cause dermatitis (when the skin becomes red, sore, or inflamed).
• Feverfew may slow blood clotting and should be stopped at least 2 weeks before scheduled surgery.
• Feverfew may interact with some medicines, including those used for migraine. If you take feverfew or any other medicine, talk with your health care provider before using feverfew or other herbal products; some herbs and medicines interact in harmful ways.
• Do not take feverfew while pregnant because it may affect uterine contractions. If you’re considering using feverfew while pregnant, consult your health care provider. Little is known about whether it’s safe to use feverfew while breastfeeding. 

Keep in Mind

• Take charge of your health—talk with your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions.
• Federal Regulation of Herbal Products
  • Depending on what’s in them, how they’re intended to be used, and how they’re administered (orally or topically), herbal products are regulated in a variety of ways. Many herbal products intended for oral use are marketed as dietary supplements. The rules for making and distributing dietary supplements are less strict than those for drugs.
  • Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before they are sold to the public. When public health concerns arise about the safety of a dietary supplement or an ingredient including an herb, the FDA can take action to protect the public. Manufacturers and distributors of supplements are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all regulatory requirements. 

For More Information

• Using Dietary Supplements Wisely
• Know the Science: How Medications and Supplements Can Interact
• Know the Science: How To Make Sense of a Scientific Journal Article

Key References