feverfew for migraines
overview
feverfew ( tanacetum parthenium) is an herb that has been studied a lot for migraine prevention. some small studies show that it may help prevent migraines in some people.footnote 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 breastfeeding.
be sure to tell your doctor before you take feverfew. like any drug, it can interact with other medicines that you are taking or affect your health in ways you may not be aware of.
credits
current as of: december 20, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
current as of: december 20, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
holland s, et al. (2012). evidence-based guideline update: nsaids and other complementary treatments for episodic migraine prevention in adults: report of the quality standards subcommittee of the american academy of neurology and the american headache society. neurology, 78(17): 1346–1353.
