Feverfew

Christopher Hobbs:

“Feverfew is commonly used in Europe for its anti-inflammatory properties; it is mainly recommended for migraine headaches and arthritis. Double-blind studies conducted with feverfew support its effectiveness for these conditions. It has also been used for psoriasis and premenstrual syndrome, as well as for colds, fever, and flu. It moves the blood and stimulates the appetite.

Feverfew has a taste of BITTER, AROMATIC and a temperature of COOL.”

Historical Uses

• Ancient Greece and Rome: Used to treat fevers, headaches, and inflammation. Hippocrates is said to have used feverfew for its medicinal properties.
• Middle Ages: It was commonly used to treat migraines and to promote general well-being.

Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths

• Migraine prevention: Feverfew is most commonly used to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
• Anti-inflammatory: It’s used to alleviate symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
• Digestive support: Some herbalists recommend it for digestive issues, like indigestion and bloating.
• Other uses: Feverfew has also been used for fevers, menstrual cramps, and as a mild sedative.

Chemistry and Pharmacology

• Active compounds: Feverfew contains parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone, which is believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. Parthenolide has anti-inflammatory, anti-migraine, and potentially anti-cancer properties.
• Mechanism of action: It inhibits the release of pro-inflammatory substances like prostaglandins and cytokines and may also affect serotonin levels in the brain, which plays a role in migraine pathophysiology.
• Clinical Trials

• Migraine prevention: Several clinical studies have shown that feverfew can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. A 2004 study published in Lancet found that feverfew was as effective as a placebo for some migraine sufferers but also indicated some benefit in reducing attacks.
• Mixed results: Not all trials have been conclusive, with some showing no significant benefit over placebo. However, many studies suggest a reduction in migraine days and headache intensity.

Summary

Feverfew is a well-studied herb, particularly known for its role in preventing migraines and reducing inflammation. While its effectiveness for migraines has some support in clinical trials, results are mixed, and more research is needed. It is generally safe but should be used cautiously, especially for people with allergies to related plants or those on medications.

Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs