Feverfew

Feverfew

(Tanacetum parthenium)

Feverfew is used mainly for the prevention of migraine headaches and as an anti-inflammatory in rheumatoid arthritis. It is also claimed to be useful for treatment of psoriasis, toothache, insect bites, asthma, stomach ache, and menstrual problems; use as a antipyretic.

Anti-inflammatory, rheumatoid arthritis: Pattrick, 1989

Migraine headache prevention: Johnson, 1985

Standardized: 0.9% standardized extract containing Parthenolide 2.25mg
1 capsule with water 3 x daily

Whole Herb: (Leaf powder) 350mg
1 capsule with water 3 x daily

Summary:

Feverfew contains a number of compounds with anti-inflammatory and smooth muscle relaxant activities. It has increased in popularity in recent years, particularly for migraines. Since the effects of this herb may take several weeks of continuous therapy, individuals should be encouraged to use the herb for a minimum of 1 month before determining whether it has been effective. The main active ingredients are the sesquiterpene lactones, particularly parthenolide, which inhibits serotonin release by human platelets in vitro. This may be the mechanism of action for the herb's purported efficacy in treating migraines. Parthenolide also inhibits serotonin release. Extracts of Feverfew contain chemicals that inhibit activation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and the synthesis of leukotrienes and prostaglandins.

Pharmacology:

Feverfew reportedly inhibits the synthesis of leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and thromboxanes which mediate inflammation. In addition, Feverfew is claimed to inhibit platelet aggregation and induce smooth muscle relaxation. It has been used most commonly for migraine headaches. Feverfew has been claimed to relax uterine smooth muscle and therefore should be avoided during pregnancy. It also may inhibit platelet aggregation and blood coagulation.

Theoretical Cautions and Contraindications:

Use of Feverfew is contraindicated in pregnancy or in individuals with allergies to members of the Asteraceae/Compositae family (chrysanthemum, daisy). The onset of Feverfew's effects may be delayed for several weeks. Abrupt discontinuation may increase migraine frequency. A "post-Feverfew syndrome" has been described, including nervousness, insomnia, joint stiffness and pain that may occur following discontinuation in some individuals. Pharmacological activity may include inhibition of platelet aggregation and increase in fibrinolytic activity. Contraindicated in individuals with active bleeding (e.g., peptic ulcer, intracranial bleeding). Use with caution in individuals with a history of bleeding, hemostatic disorders, or drug-related hemostatic problems. Use with caution if taking anticoagulant medications including warfarin, aspirin, aspirin-containing products, NSAIDs, or antiplatelet agents (e.g., ticlopidine, clopidogrel, dipyridamole). Feverfew should not be used for longer than 4 months without medical supervision. "Post-feverfew" syndrome has been reported with symptoms of nervousness, tension headaches, insomnia, stiffness/pain in joints and tiredness. Feverfew is of the ragweed family and cross-sensitivity might be possible. Discontinue use for at least 14 days prior to dental or surgical procedures.

Theoretical Interactions:

Anticoagulants, aspirin, aspirin-containing products, NSAIDs (may reduce effectiveness of feverfew), or antiplatelet agents. Tannins in feverfew may inhibit iron absorption. Should not be taken with blood thinners such as Coumadin.

Special Considerations:

Monitor for mouth ulcerations and encourage the patient to report any unusual symptoms such as sores or ulcerations. Encourage proper oral hygiene. Instruct the patient not to withdraw the herb abruptly, but to taper its use gradually because of risk of post-Feverfew syndrome.

References:

Johnson ES, Kadam NP, Hylands DM, et al, "Efficacy of Feverfew as Prophylactic Treatment of Migraine," Br Med J (Clin Res Ed), 1985, 291(6495): 569-73.

Pattrick M, Heptinstall S, and Doherty M, "Feverfew in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Study," Ann Rheum Dis, 1989, 48(7): 547-49.

Ernst, E. "Harmless Herbs? A Review of the Recent Literature" American Journal of Medicine, vol. 104, 1998, pp.170-8.

Klepser, T.B. and Klepser, M.E. "Unsafe and Potentially Safe Herbal Therapies." American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, vol. 56, 1999, pp.125-38.

Miller, L.G. "Herbal Medicinals: Selected Clinical Considerations Focusing on Known or Poetential Drug-Herb Interactions." Archives of Internal Medicine, vol. 158, 1998, pp. 2200-11.

Zink, T. and Chaffin, J. "Healthy 'Health' Products: What Family Physicians Need To Know." American Family Physician, vol 58, 1998, pp. 1133-1140.

Short, R. (ed.), "Clinical Considerations for Specific Herb-Drug Interactions & Potential Adverse Effects of Herbs", Facts and Comparisons The Review of Natural Products, St. Louis (Mo), 1998 Dec; 1-8.

Fetrow, C.W., Avila, J. R., Complementary & Alternative Medicines, Springhouse, PA, 1999.

LaValle, J.B., Krinsky, D.L., Hawkins, E.B, et. al., Natural Therapeutics Pocket Guide, Lexi-Comp, USA, 2000.

Gruenwald, J., Brendler, T., Jaenicke, C., PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Ed., Medical Economics Company, NJ, 2000.

Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, Gruenwald J, Hall T, Riggins CW, Rister RS (eds.) The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Klein S, Rister RS, translators. Austin (TX): American Botanical Council; Boston (MA): Integrative Medicine Communications; 1998.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Material herein is derived from journals, textbooks, news releases, reference guides, etc. Graham Development, Inc. cannot be held responsible for the validity of the information contained in any reference noted herein or for the misuse of information or any adverse effects by use of any stated materials presented. ©2000 Scientific Herbals-unauthorized reproduction of this document is prohibited.

Feverfew Standardized Herbal Supplement 14.99

Feverfew Herbal Supplement 350 mg 10.29

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