Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Awang DV. Parthenocide: the demise of a facile theory of feverfew activity. J Herbs Spices Med Plants 1998;5(4):95-98.

Burry, J. N. Compositae dermatitis in South Australia: contact dermatitis from Chrysanthemum parthenium. Contact Dermatitis 1980;6(6):445. View abstract.

Christensen, L. P., Jakobsen, H. B., Paulsen, E., Hodal, L., and Andersen, K. E. Airborne Compositae dermatitis: monoterpenes and no parthenolide are released from flowering Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew) plants. Arch Dermatol Res 1999;291(7-8):425-431. View abstract.

Czyz, M., Lesiak-Mieczkowska, K., Koprowska, K., Szulawska-Mroczek, A., and Wozniak, M. Cell context-dependent activities of parthenolide in primary and metastatic melanoma cells. Br.J.Pharmacol. 2010;160(5):1144-1157. View abstract.

De Weerdt, C. J., Bootsma, H. P., and Hendriks, H. Herbal medicines in migraine prevention Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial of a feverfew preparation. Phytomedicine. 1996;3(3):225-230. View abstract.

DeWeerdt CJ, Bootsman H, and Hendricks H. Herbal medicines in migraine prevention. Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial of a feverfew preparation. Phytomed 1996;3(3):225-230.

Gromek, D., Kisiel, W., Stojakowska, A., and Kohlmunzer, S. Attempts of chemical standardizing of Chrysanthemum parthenium as a prospective antimigraine drug. Pol.J.Pharmacol.Pharm. 1991;43(3):213-217. View abstract.

Hayes, N. A. and Foreman, J. C. The activity of compounds extracted from feverfew on histamine release from rat mast cells. J Pharm Pharmacol 1987;39(6):466-470. View abstract.

Jovanovic, M. and Poljacki, M. [Compositae dermatitis]. Med Pregl. 2003;56(1-2):43-49. View abstract.

Kemper, K. J. and Breuner, C. C. Complementary, holistic, and integrative medicine: headaches. Pediatr.Rev. 2010;31(2):e17-e23. View abstract.

Kuritzky A, Elhacham Y, Yerushalmi Z, and et al. Feverfew in the treatment of migraine: its effect on serotonin uptake and platelet activity. Neurology 1994;44(Suppl 2):A201.

Loder, E., Burch, R., and Rizzoli, P. The 2012 AHS/AAN guidelines for prevention of episodic migraine: a summary and comparison with other recent clinical practice guidelines. Headache 2012;52(6):930-945. View abstract.

Mauskop, A. Nonmedication, alternative, and complementary treatments for migraine. Continuum (Minneap.Minn.) 2012;18(4):796-806. View abstract.

Modi, S. and Lowder, D. M. Medications for migraine prophylaxis. Am Fam.Physician 1-1-2006;73(1):72-78. View abstract.

Palevitch D, Earon G, and Carasso R. Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) as a prophylactic treatment for migraine: a double-blind placebo-controlled study. Phytother Res 1997;11(7):508-511.

Pfaffenrath V, Fischer M, Friede M, and et al. Clinical dose-response study for the investigation of efficacy and tolerability of Tanacetum parthenium in migraine prophylaxis. Deutscher Schmerzkongress; October 20-24, 1999, Munich, Germany. 1999;

Silberstein, S. D. Preventive treatment of headaches. Curr Opin Neurol. 2005;18(3):289-292. View abstract.

Sun-Edelstein, C. and Mauskop, A. Foods and supplements in the management of migraine headaches. Clin J Pain 2009;25(5):446-452. View abstract.

Waller, P. C. and Ramsay, L. E. Efficacy of feverfew as prophylactic treatment of migraine. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 10-19-1985;291(6502):1128. View abstract.

Awang DV. Parthenocide: demise of a facile theory of feverfew activity. J Herbs Spices Med Plants 1998;5:95-8.

Awang DVC. Prescribing therapeutic feverfew (Tancetum pathrnium (L.) Schultz Bip., syn. Chrysanthemumparthenium (L.) Bernh). Int Med 1998;1:11-3.

Barsby R, Salan U, Knight DW, Hoult JR. Irreversible inhibition of vascular reactivity by feverfew. Lancet 1991;338:1015. View abstract.

Barsby RW, Salan U, Knight DW, Hoult JR. Feverfew extracts and parthenolide irreversibly inhibit vascular responses of the rabbit aorta. J Pharm Pharmacol 1992;44:737-40. View abstract.

Biggs MJ, Johnson ES, Persaud NP, Ratcliffe DM. Platelet aggregation in patients using feverfew for migraine. Lancet 1982;2:776. View abstract.

Brun J, Claustrat B, Saddier P, Chazot G. Nocturnal melatonin excretion is decreased in patients with migraine without aura attacks associated with menses. Cephalalgia 1995;15:136-9. View abstract.

Cady RK, Goldstein J, Nett R, et al. A double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study of sublingual feverfew and ginger (LipiGesic M) in the treatment of migraine. Headache 2011;51:1078-86. View abstract.

Cady RK, Schreiber CP, Beach ME, et al. Gelstat Migraine (sublingually administered feverfew and ginger compound) for acute treatment of migraine when administered during the mild pain phase. Med Sci Monit. 2005;11:I65-69. View abstract.

Collier HO, Butt NM, McDonald-Gibson WJ, Saeed SA. Extract of feverfew inhibits prostaglandin biosynthesis. Lancet 1980;2:922-3. View abstract.

de Weerdt GJ, Bootsman HPR, Hendriks H. Herbal medicines in migraine prevention. Randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of a feverfew preparation. Phytomedicine 1996;3:225-30.

Diener HC, Pfaffenrath V, Schnitker J, et al. Efficacy and safety of 6.25 mg t.i.d. feverfew CO2-extract (MIG-99) in migraine prevention–a randomized, double-blind, multicentre, placebo-controlled study. Cephalalgia 2005;25:1031-41. View abstract.

Ernst E, Pittler MH. The efficacy and safety of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): an update of a systematic review. Public Health Nutr 2000;3:509-14. View abstract.

Ferro EC, Biagini AP, da Silva ÍE, Silva ML, Silva JR. The combined effect of acupuncture and Tanacetum parthenium on quality of life in women with headache: randomised study. Acupunct Med. 2012 Dec;30(4):252-7. View abstract.

Foster S. Feverfew, Tanacetum parthenium, botanical series #310. Austin, TX: Am Botanical Council, 1996.

Groenewegen WA, Heptinstall S. A comparison of the effects of an extract of feverfew and parthenolide, a component of feverfew, on human platelet activity in-vitro. J Pharm Pharmacol 1990;42:553-7. View abstract.

Guilbot A, Bangratz M, Ait Abdellah S, Lucas C. A combination of coenzyme Q10, feverfew and magnesium for migraine prophylaxis: a prospective observational study. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2017;17(1):433. doi: 10.1186/s12906-017-1933-7. View abstract.

Heptinstall S, Groenewegen WA, Spangenberg P, Loesche W. Extracts of feverfew may inhibit platelet behaviour via neutralization of sulphydryl groups. J Pharm Pharmacol 1987;39:459-65. View abstract.

Heptinstall S, Groenewegen WA, Spangenberg P, Losche W. Inhibition of platelet behaviour by feverfew: a mechanism of action involving sulphydryl groups. Folia Haematol Int Mag Klin Morphol Blutforsch 1988;115:447-9. View abstract.

Heptinstall S, White A, Williamson L, Mitchell JR. Extracts of feverfew inhibit granule secretion in blood platelets and polymorphonuclear leucocytes. Lancet 1985;1:1071-4. View abstract.

Heptinstall S. Feverfew–an ancient remedy for modern times? J R Soc Med. 1988 Jul;81(7):373-4. View abstract.

Holland S, Silberstein SD, Freitag F, et al. 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 2012;78:1346-53. View abstract.

Hwang D, Fischer NH, Jang BC, et al. Inhibition of the expression of inducible cyclooxygenase and proinflammatory cytokines by sesquiterpene lactones in macrophages correlates with the inhibition of MAP kinases. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1996;226:810-8.. View abstract.

Jain NK, Kulkarni SK. Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of Tanacetum parthenium L. extract in mice and rats. J Ethnopharmacol 1999;68:251-9. View abstract.

Johnson ES, Kadam NP, Hylands DM, Hylands PJ. Efficacy of feverfew as prophylactic treatment of migraine. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1985;291:569-73. View abstract.

Kuritzky A, Elhacham Y, Yerushalmi Z, et al. Feverfew in the treatment of migraine: its effect on serotonin uptake and platelet activity. Neurology 1994;44(Suppl 2):A201. (Abstract 293P)

Lamminpaa A, Estlander T, Jolanki R, Kanerva L. Occupational allergic contact dermatitis caused by decorative plants. Contact Dermatitis 1996;34:330-5. View abstract.

Maizels M, Blumenfeld A, Burchette R. A combination of riboflavin, magnesium, and feverfew for migraine prophylaxis: a randomized trial. Headache 2004;44:885-90. View abstract.

Makheja AN, Bailey JM. A platelet phospholipase inhibitor from the medicinal herb feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium). Prostaglandins Leukot Med 1982;8:653-60. View abstract.

Makheja AN, Bailey JM. The active principle in feverfew. Lancet 1981;2:1054. View abstract.

McCrory DC, Matchar DB, Gray RN, et al. Evidence-based guidelines for migraine headache: overview of program description and methodology. US Headache Consortium, April 2000. Available at: www.aan.com/cgi-bin/whatsnewlink.pl?loc=/public/practiceguidelines.

Moscano F, Guiducci M, Maltoni L, et al. An observational study of fixed-dose Tanacetum parthenium nutraceutical preparation for prophylaxis of pediatric headache. Ital J Pediatr. 2019;45(1):36. View abstract.

Murch SJ, Simmons CB, Saxena PK. Melatonin in feverfew and other medicinal plants. Lancet 1997;350:1598-9. View abstract.

Murphy JJ, Heptinstall S, Mitchell JR. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of feverfew in migraine prevention. Lancet 1988;2:189-92. View abstract.

Palevitch D, Earon G, Carasso R. Feverfew (tanacetum parthenium) as a prophylactic treatment for migraine- a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Phytotherapy Res 1997;11:508-11.

Pareek A, Suthar M, Rathore G, Bansal V. Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): A systematic review. Pharmacogn Rev. 2011;5(9):103-110. View abstract.

Pattrick M, Heptinstall S, Doherty M. Feverfew in rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Ann Rheum Dis 1989;48:547-9. View abstract.

Pfaffenrath V, Diener HC, Fischer M, et al. The efficacy and safety of Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew) in migraine prophylaxis–a double-blind, multicentre, randomized placebo-controlled dose-response study. Cephalalgia 2002;22:523-32. View abstract.

Pittler MH, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2004;(1):CD002286. View abstract.

Pittler MH, Vogler BK, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2000;3:CD002286. View abstract.

Prusinski A, Durko A, and Niczyporuk-Turek A. [Feverfew as a prophylactic treatment of migraine]. Neurol.Neurochir.Pol. 1999;33 Suppl 5:89-95. View abstract.

Pugh WJ, Sambo K. Prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors in feverfew. J Pharm Pharmacol 1988;40:743-5. View abstract.

Ross JJ, Arnason JT, Birnboim HC. Low concentrations of the feverfew component parthenolide inhibit in vitro growth of tumor lines in a cytostatic fashion. Planta Med 1999;65:126-9. View abstract.

Saraceno R, Chiricozzi A, Nistico SP, et al. An occlusive dressing containing betamethasone valerate 0.1% for the treatment of prurigo nodularis. J.Dermatolog.Treat. 2010;21:363-66. View abstract.

Shrivastava R, Pechadre JC, and John GW. Tanacetum parthenium and Salix alba (Mig-RL) combination in migraine prophylaxis: a prospective, open-label study. Clin Drug Investig. 2006;26:287-96. View abstract.

Sil’vestrov VP, Kinitin AV, and Chesnokova, IV. [Immunological and metabolic disorders and the means for their correction in patients with chronic bronchitis]. Ter.Arkh. 1991;63:7-11. View abstract.

Sumner H, Salan U, Knight DW, Hoult JR. Inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase in leukocytes by feverfew. Involvement of sesquiterpene lactones and other components. Biochem Pharmacol 1992;43:2313-20. View abstract.

Sur R, Martin K, Liebel F, et al. Anti-inflammatory activity of parthenolide-depleted Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium). Inflammopharmacology. 2009;17:42-9. View abstract.

Unger M, Frank A. Simultaneous determination of the inhibitory potency of herbal extracts on the activity of six major cytochrome P450 enzymes using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and automated online extraction. Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom 2004;18:2273-81. View abstract.

Vogler BK, Pittler MH, Ernst E. Feverfew as a preventive treatment for migraine: a systematic review. Cephalalgia 1998;18:704-8. View abstract.

Wider B, Pittler MH, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015 Apr 20;4:CD002286. [Epub ahead of print] View abstract.

Williams CA, Harborne JB, Geiger H, Hoult JR. The flavonoids of Tanacetum parthenium and T. vulgare and their anti-inflammatory properties. Phytochemistry 1999;51:417-23. View abstract.

Williams CA, Hoult JR, Harborne JB, et al. A biologically active lipophilic flavonol from Tanacetum parthenium. Phytochemistry 1995;38:267-70. View abstract.

Wong HC. Is feverfew a pharmacologic agent? CMAJ 1999;160:21-2. View abstract.

Zavarize P, Ngonga G, Pezzini A, Dalla Volta G. Combination of tanacethum partenium, 5-hjydrossitriptophan (5-Http) and magnesium in the prophylaxis of episodic migraine without aura (AURASTOP®) an observational study. Int J Neuro Brain Dis 2017;4(3):1-4. DOI: 10.15436/2377-1348.17.1630

Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a plant belonging to the sunflower family. Also known as “featherfew” and “wild chamomile,” It has long been used as an herbal remedy in European folk medicine.

Feverfew contains a compound called parthenolide, which may help to ease muscle spasms, reduce inflammation, and prevent the constriction of blood vessels in the brain.

Health Benefits

Feverfew leaves (either dried or fresh) and fever extracts are purported to have many health benefits. Not all of these benefits are supported by scientific evidence.

In alternative medicine, feverfew is typically used as a herbal remedy for the following conditions:

• Psoriasis
• Menstrual cramps
• Asthma
• Skin conditions
• Stomachaches

There is not enough evidence to support the use of feverfew for these conditions.

Although research on feverfew’s effects is limited, studies have at potential feverfew benefits to treat these conditions:

Migraine

In a 2005 study of 170 migraine patients, researchers found that those who took feverfew extract for 16 weeks experienced 1.9 fewer attacks per month than they had before the study started. Study members who took a placebo for the same amount of time experienced 1.3 fewer attacks per month.

In a 2004 review of five clinical trials, however, investigators found insufficient evidence to suggest that feverfew is more effective than placebo in preventing migraine.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Test-tube experiments have demonstrated that feverfew may help fight the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis, although no human studies have proven feverfew to be more useful than placebo in the treatment of this disease.

Pancreatic Cancer

In a 2005 study, scientists discovered that parthenolide extracted from feverfew inhibited the growth of pancreatic cancer cells in the lab. While medical experts report that that feverfew seems to be well tolerated among cancer patients, it’s too soon to tell whether feverfew may be useful in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Possible Side Effects

Feverfew is likely safe when taken for a short period of time in appropriate doses. However, certain side effects may occur. These side effects may include minor stomach upset (such as nausea, diarrhea, and flatulence), red itchy rash, and mouth ulcerations from chewing fresh feverfew leaves.

Patients who stop long-term use of feverfew may also experience muscle stiffness, moderate pain, and anxiety.

If you’re allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemum, or marigold, you may be sensitive to feverfew.

Anyone taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication should consult their doctor before using feverfew.

Due to the limited research, it’s too soon to recommend feverfew as a treatment for any condition. It’s also important to note that self-treating a condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences. If you’re considering using feverfew for any health purpose, make sure to consult your physician first.

Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak

Dosage and Preparation

There is not enough evidence to determine an appropriate dose of feverfew. The right dose for you can depend on several factors including your age, gender, and medical history.

In research settings, various doses of feverfew have been studied. For example, in studies investigating feverfew’s effect on migraines, study participants took 50-150 mg of feverfew powder daily for up to four months. In other studies, different doses of feverfew combined with other herbal remedies have been used.

Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice about the proper dose and safety of feverfew.

It’s important to keep in mind that supplements haven’t been tested for safety and dietary supplements are largely unregulated. In some cases, the product may deliver doses that differ from the specified amount for each herb. In other cases, the product may be contaminated with other substances such as metals. Also, the safety of supplements in pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with medical conditions or who are taking medications has not been established. 

What to Look For

Feverfew is available in capsule, tablet, and liquid extract form, and is sold in most health food stores.

If you choose to buy a supplement, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that you look for a Supplement Facts label on the product that you buy. This label will contain vital information including the amount of active ingredients per serving, and other added ingredients (like fillers, binders, and flavorings).

Lastly, the organization suggests that you look for a product that contains a seal of approval from a third party organization that provides quality testing. These organizations include U.S. Pharmacopeia, ConsumerLab.com, and NSF International. A seal of approval from one of these organizations does not guarantee the product’s safety or effectiveness but it does provide assurance that the product was properly manufactured, contains the ingredients listed on the label, and does not contain harmful levels of contaminants.

Feverfew Information | Mount Sinai

Bowe WP. Cosmetic benefits of natural ingredients: mushrooms, feverfew, tea and wheat complex. J Drugs Dermatol. 2013;12(9 Suppl):s133-6.

Cady RK, Goldstein J, Nett R, Mitchell R, Beach ME, Browning R. A double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study of sublingual feverfew and ginger (LipiGesic™ M) in the treatment of migraine. Headache. 2011 Jul-Aug;51(7):1078-86. doi: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.2011.01910.x.

Chen CF, Leung AY. Gene response of human monocytic cells for the detection of antimigraine activity of feverfew extracts. Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2007;85(11):1108-15.

Curry EA 3rd, Murry DJ, Yoder C, et al., Phase I dose escalation trial of feverfew with standardized doses of parthenolide in patients with cancer. Invest New Drugs. 2004;22(3):299-305.

De Weerdt CJ, Bootsma HPR, Hendriks H. Herbal Medicines in migraine prevention. Randomized double-blind placebo controlled crossover trial of a feverfew preparation. Phytomedicine. 1996;3:22-230.

Diener HC, Pfaffenrath V, Schnitker J, Friede M, Henneicke-von Zepelin HH. Efficacy and safety of 6.25 mg t.i.d. feverfew CO2-extract (MIG-99) in migraine prevention — a randomized, double-blind, multicentre, placebo-controlled study. Cephalalgia. 2005;25(11):1031-41.

Ernst E, Pittler MH. The efficacy and safety of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): an update of a systematic review. [Review] Public Health Nutr. 2000;3(4A):509-514.

Evans RW, Taylor FR. “Natural” or alternative medications for migraine prevention. Headache. 2006;46(6):1012-8.

Heck AM, DeWitt BA, Lukes AL. Potential interactions between alternative therapies and warfarin. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2000;57(13):1221-1227.

Henneicke-von Zepelin HH. Feverfew for migraine prophylaxis. Headache. 2006;46(3):531

Johnson ES, Kadam NP, Hylands DM, Hylands PJ. Efficacy of feverfew as prophylactic treatment of migraine. Br Med J. 1985;291:569-573.

Lesiak K, Koprowska K, Zalesna I, Nejc D, Düchler M, Czyz M. Parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone from the medical herb feverfew, shows anticancer activity against human melanoma cells in vitro. Melanoma Res. 2010 Feb;20(1):21-34.

Maizels M, Blumenfeld A, Burchette R. A combination of riboflavin, magnesium, and feverfew for migraine prophylaxis: a randomized trial. Headache. 2004;44(9):885-90.

Martin K, et al. Parthenolide-depleted Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) protects skin from UV irradiation and external aggression. Arch Dermatol Res. 2008;300(2):69-80.

Miller L. Herbal medicinals: selected clinical considerations focusing on known or potential drug-herb interactions. Arch Intern Med. 1998;158(20):2200-2211.

Murphy JJ, Heptinstall S, Mitchell JR. Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial of feverfew in migraine prevention. Lancet. 1988;2:189-192.

Palevitch D, Earon G, Carasso R. Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) as a prophylactic treatment for migraine: a double-blind controlled study. Phytotherapy Res. 1997;11:508-511.

Pareek A, Suthar M, Rathore GS, Bansal V. Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): A systematic review. Pharmacogn Rev. 2011 Jan;5(9):103-10. doi: 10.4103/0973-7847.79105.

Pattrick M, Heptinstall S, Doherty M. Feverfew in rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind, placebo controlled study. Ann Rheum Dis. 1989;48:547-549.

Pfaffenrath V, Diener HC, Fischer M, et al. The efficacy and safety of Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew) in migraine prophylaxis–a double-blind, multicentre, randomized placebo-controlled dose-response study. Cephalalgia. 2002;22(7):523-532.

Pittler MH, Vogler BK, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine. [Review] Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2000;(3):CD002286.

Rodriguez KJ, Wong HK, Oddos T, Southall M, Frei B, Kaur S. A purified feverfew extract protects from oxidative damage by inducing DNA repair in skin cells via a P13-kinase-dependent Nrf2/ARE pathway. J Dermatol Sci. 2013;72(3):304-10.

Schiapparelli P, Allais G, Castagnoli Gabellari I, Rolando S, Terzi MG, Benedetto C. Non-pharmacological approach to migraine prophylaxis: part II. Neurol Sci. 2010 Jun;31 Suppl 1:S137-9. Review.

Shrivastava R, Pechadre JC, John GW. Tanacetum parthenium and Salix alba (Mig-RL) combination in migraine prophylaxis: a prospective, open-label study. Clin Drug Investig. 2006;26(5):287-96.

Silberstein SD. Preventive treatment of headaches. Curr Opin Neurol. 2005;18(3):289-92.

Won YK, Ong CN, Shi X, Shen HM. Chemopreventive activity of parthenolide against UVB-induced skin cancer and its mechanisms. Carcinogenesis. 2004;25(8):1449-58.

Wu C, Chen F, Rushing JW, Wang X, Kim HJ, Huang G, Haley-Zitlin V, He G. Antiproliferative activities of parthenolide and golden feverfew extract against three human cancer cell lines. J Med Food. 2006;9(1):55-61.

Yao M, Ritchie HE, Brown-Woodman. A reproductive screening test of feverfew: is a full reproductive study warranted? Reprod Toxicol. 2006;22(4):688-93.

Zhang S, Lin ZN, Yang CF, Shi X, Ong CN, Shen HM. Suppressed NF-kappaB and sustained JNK activation contribute to the sensitization effect of parthenolide to TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis in human cancer cells. Carcinogenesis. 2004;25(11):2191-9.

Feverfew | DermNet NZ

Author: Dr David Lim, Dermatology Registrar, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand, 2012.

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium, alternative names: Chrysanthemum parthenium and Pyrethrum parthenium) is a flowering plant originating from Europe, that is now found in many regions of the world. It has been used for centuries for its believed medicinal properties such as treating fevers, headaches, arthritis and other ailments. The name ‘feverfew’ originates from its property as a ‘fever reducer’ and has previously been referred to as the ‘medieval aspirin’.

While feverfew has been used for centuries in the treatment of a number of conditions, modern studies have come to mixed conclusions regarding many of the claimed benefits. Specifically, it appears that feverfew has limited (if any) benefit for the treatment of headaches and rheumatoid arthritis. However, there is growing evidence that it may be beneficial as a topical treatment for skin conditions such as atopic eczema and allergic contact dermatitis. Its activity for these conditions appears comparable to weak topical steroids.

Feverfew

How does feverfew work?

Feverfew contains several biologically active components that have beneficial anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. It appears to inhibit a number of pro-inflammatory cytokines and impairs prostaglandin production as well as the action of neutrophils. These actions help reduce inflammation and are helpful for inflammatory and auto-immune conditions.

Laboratory studies have also demonstrated other effects such as an anti-spasmodic and blood vessel relaxant. It appears to impair platelet activity, inhibit histamine release and slow the growth of bacteria. Many of these laboratory studies have not translated to beneficial effects when used by people.

Side effects of feverfew products

Feverfew is usually well tolerated however side effects can occur in up to 18% of people using it. Side effects include mouth ulceration and inflammation of the oral mucosa (stomatitis). Parthenolide (a component of feverfew) is a potent cause of contact allergic dermatitis in some people, and can arise when used topically (on the skin). Parthenolide is one of the main causes of compositae allergy.

Products that exclude parthenolide are widely available and often referred to as ‘Purified Feverfew Extract’. These purified products do not appear to cause significant skin sensitisation.

Stopping feverfew after long-term oral ingestion can precipitate a ‘post-feverfew syndrome’. Symptoms include muscle and joint aches and stiffness, headaches and difficulty sleeping.

Contraindications to feverfew

Feverfew impairs the action of platelets, so care should be taken with oral use of feverfew for people who take “blood-thinners” or anticoagulants such as aspirin, clopidogrel, dipyridamole, warfarin or dabigatran. Those with a history of significant bleeds, such as internal bleeding of the head or stomach, should also take care.

How to use feverfew and availability

Skin care products containing feverfew are widely available in pharmacies and supermarkets without a prescription. Care should be taken to obtain products labelled as ‘Purified Feverfew Extract’ or ‘Parthenolide free’, as parthenolide commonly causes skin irritation. Products available include moisturisers and cleansers. Instructions for use are individualised to the specific products.

Related information

References

• Pareek A, Suthar M, Rathore GS, Bansal V. Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): A systematic review. Pharmacognosy Review 2011; 5: 103-110.
• Pittler MH, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2004; CD002286.
• Sur R, Martin K, Liebel F, et al. Anti-inflammatory activity of parthenolide-depleted Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium). Inflammapharmacology 2009; 17: 42-9.
• Eichenfield LF, Fowler JF Jr, Rigel DS, Taylor SC. Natural advances in eczema care. Cutis. 2007; 80 (6 Suppl): 2-16.
• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Feverfew. [www document]. URL: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/feverfew/ [accessed on 08 January 2012].

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New Zealand approved datasheets are the official source of information for these prescription medicines, including approved uses and risk information. Check the individual New Zealand datasheet on the Medsafe website.

Feverfew: Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects

Find out all about feverfew, including what it does, the benefits to using it and how much you might need

Written by Victoria Goldman on March 19, 2019
Reviewed by Gabriella Clarke on March 21, 2019

Overview

Feverfew, or Tanacetum parthenium, is a flowering plant related to the aster or daisy family. It grows as a weed all over the world.¹ The Ancient Greeks used feverfew to ease inflammation and fever.

What is feverfew and what does it do?

Traditionally, the herb was popular for headaches, fever, inflammatory conditions, coughs, colds and arthritis.² Indeed, the word ‘feverfew’ comes from the Latin word febrifugia, which means ‘fever reducer’.³

Nowadays, it isn’t used for those reasons but is instead a popular herbal remedy for the prevention of migraine symptoms.⁴

Benefits of feverfew

What does feverfew do in the body?

Like other plants in the aster or daisy family, feverfew contains more than 30 natural plant chemicals. These are called sesquiterpene lactones, with the most active being parthenolide.

These chemicals are thought to:⁵

• block the body’s production of prostaglandins, which cause inflammation, pain and fever
• stop blood vessel muscles from contracting
• curb the action of signalling molecules that promote inflammation in the body⁶

Prevention of migraine – the above effects mean feverfew may be helpful for prevention of migraine headache, and it has been approved by the European Medicines Agency for this use.⁷

A Cochrane review, published in 2015, found that feverfew was effective in preventing migraine in four out of six clinical trials. However, researchers suggested that more high-quality trials were needed.⁸

If you’re interested in taking feverfew to prevent migraine attacks, speak to your GP or a medical herbalist first. You should only take it if you have already been diagnosed with migraine and other serious conditions have been ruled out first.⁹

Dosage

How much feverfew is safe to take?

It’s safe to take 100mg of powdered feverfew per day, according to the European Medicines Agency.¹⁰ Experts advise that feverfew supplements should have parthenolide standardised to 0.2%.¹¹

Make sure you read the product label carefully and stick to the recommended dose.

Feverfew shouldn’t be taken by the following people, as it has not yet been proven to be safe:^12,13

• babies and children
• pregnant or breast-feeding women
• anyone taking blood-thinning medicines, such as aspirin or warfarin

In some people, feverfew can cause an allergic reaction, so don’t take it if you know you have allergies to other plants in the aster family, such as chrysanthemums, daisies and marigolds.¹⁴

Side-effects

What are the side-effects of using feverfew?

Teas or fresh leaves from the feverfew plant can taste very bitter and may irritate your mouth. For some people this can cause numbness and swelling.¹⁵

Capsules or tablets don’t usually trigger side-effects, but can occasionally cause:¹⁶

• mouth ulcers
• tummy upsets

If you’ve been taking feverfew for a long time and then decide to stop, you may experience rebound symptoms, known as ‘feverfew rebound syndrome’.¹⁷ Symptoms can include:¹⁸

• headaches
• difficulty sleeping
• anxiety
• nausea
• stiff or painful muscles

It’s important to decrease your dose of feverfew slowly to help prevent these rebound effects.¹⁹Shop Herbal Remedies

Advice is for information only and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP before trying any remedies.

Sources 

1. British Herbal Medicine Association. Feverfew
2. Pareek A, et al. Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): A systematic review

3. As Source 1

4. As Source 2

5. As Source 2

6. Kwok BH, et al. The anti-inflammatory natural product parthenolide from the medicinal herb Feverfew directly binds to and inhibits IkappaB kinase
7. European Medicines Agency. Community herbal monograph on Tanacetum parthenium (L.) Schulz Bip., herba
8. Wider B, Pittler MH, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine

9. As Source 7

10. As Source 7

11. As Source 2

12. As Source 2

13. As Source 7

14. Drugs and Lactation Database. Feverfew

15. As Source 1

16. As Source 14

17. The Migraine Trust. Feverfew

18. As Source 2

19. As Source 17

Feverfew (Tanacetum Parthenium) • National Headache Foundation

25 Oct Feverfew (Tanacetum Parthenium)

Posted at 17:08h
in Headache Fact Sheets
by headache

By Christopher Hobbs (Excerpted from the National Headache Foundation Newsletter)

Feverfew is Tanacetum parthenium, a member of the daisy family. However, it is sometimes obtained under the name of Chrysanthemum parthenium. It is easy to confuse the medicinal variety of feverfew with chrysanthemum or even other varieties of feverfew — though none of these are toxic, so a mistake would not be injurious.

Drs. Johnson, Hylands and Hylands (1983) did several studies on the use of feverfew for headache. One of these was a double-blind study on twenty patients who had eaten fresh leaves of feverfew daily as a migraine preventative for at least three months prior to the study. They had a history of common or classical migraine for at least two years’ duration with no more than eight attacks a month at the time of the test. No subjects were used who had taken certain medications within one month before the test.

The average dosage for patients prior to the test was around 60mg/day. During the test, the fixed dose was 25mg per capsule of freeze-dried feverfew leaf. The freeze-dried herb was chosen because it is most like fresh leaves. Preparations like powdered extract or air-dried herb may be too old or have been heated to 100 degrees Celsius., possibly making it inactive.

The result of this test was that the patients now receiving the placebo had “significant increase in the frequency and severity of headache, nausea, and vomiting” while the feverfew group “showed no change in frequency or severity of symptoms of migraine.” Johnson, et al. (1985) concluded that feverfew does in fact prevent migraine attacks. Most people need to take feverfew for many months before fully realizing the beneficial effects.

A low starting dose of 50mg a day is recommended because the potential for side effects is then reduced. One problem is that freeze-dried feverfew capsules are not standardized in manufacture and different preparations may vary in the active ingredients.

Feverfew is currently receiving a great deal of interest in the United States although most headache experts still regard its use as experimental. The recent reports of research indicate that continually taking feverfew extracts may decrease the symptoms of migraine headaches.

Recently there has been a commercial product developed that utilizes a standardized dose of feverfew based on the activity of the purported active agent, along with therapeutic amounts of vitamin B-2 and Magnesium. This may be a more suitable formulation than others of feverfew.

Feverfew Benefits, Uses and Supplement Dosage

Suffer from chronic headaches and migraines? Looking for a natural remedy that has a proven track record of success in preventing and treating some of the worst headaches imaginable? You might want to try feverfew, an herb that’s well-known for being a potent natural headache remedy.

For centuries, traditional uses of this herb have included fevers, headaches, stomach aches, toothaches, insect bites, infertility, and problems with menstruation and labor during childbirth. Newer folk or traditional uses for feverfew include migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, allergies, asthma, tinnitus, dizziness, nausea and vomiting. (1)

Feverfew’s pain-easing effect is said to come from a biochemical called parthenolides, which combat the widening of blood vessels that occurs in migraines. It may even be more effective than other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), like aspirin! With at least 36 million Americans currently suffering from migraines, the search for relief is on a lot of hurting minds. (2)

What Is Feverfew?

The feverfew plant (Tanacetum parthenium) is a short bush with daisy-like flowers belonging to the Asteraceae or Compositae family that was originally native to the Balkan Mountains of Eastern Europe. It now grows throughout Europe, North America and South America.

The dried leaves (and sometimes flowers and stems) are used to make supplements, including capsules, tablets and liquid extracts. The leaves are also sometimes eaten fresh.

The chemistry of feverfew is well-defined with the most important biologically active component being sesquiterpene lactones, the principal one being parthenolide. Parthenolide is one of the main reasons it’s such an excellent anti-inflammatory. Feverfew also contains flavonoids and volatile oils. (12)

Related: Usnea Benefits for the Kidneys, Immunity, Respiratory System & More

Health Benefits

1. Relieves Migraines

Research shows that consuming feverfew helps reduces the frequency and get rid of migraine headaches and headache symptoms, including pain, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and noise.

Several impressive human studies shown the positive effects of using feverfew to prevent and treat migraines. A survey of 270 people with migraines in Great Britain found that more than 70 percent of them felt much better after taking an average of two to three fresh leaves daily. (3)

Another study published in Clinical Drug Investigation used a combination of feverfew and white willow bark, which has chemicals like aspirin. People who took the combination twice a day for 12 weeks had fewer migraines, and the pain did not last as long or hurt as much. (4)

In addition, a systematic review completed by the School of Postgraduate Medicine and Health Science in the U.K. compared the results of six studies. Researchers found that feverfew is effective in the prevention of migraine headaches and doesn’t pose any major safely concerns. (5)

As you can see, numerous studies confirm it’s a sure bet when it comes to natural migraine relief!

2. Calms Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that typically affects the small joints in the hands and feet. An autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body’s tissues. Feverfew is thought to hinder the production of prostaglandins, the hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation.

In a 1989 study of women with symptomatic rheumatoid arthritis, feverfew was tested as a form of relief since laboratory tests previously showed that it can generally reduce inflammation. The women took dosages of 76 milligrams of dried, powdered feverfew leaf but acknowledged that 100–125 milligrams was previously suggested as an effective dosage. The researchers ultimately admit that perhaps at larger doses might have some benefit for rheumatoid arthritis. (6)

While more research is needed, another 2009 study conducted by the Department of Orthopaedics at Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine also found that the parthenolide “ameliorated the severity of joint destruction in experimental animal model,” concluding it helps in a natural arthritis diet. (7)

3. Heals Dermatitis

Dermatitis is a general term that describes an inflammation of the skin. It has many causes and occurs in many forms. Dermatitis usually involves an itchy rash on swollen, reddened skin. Feverfew is a potent anti-inflammatory that’s particularly effective at calming redness.

Studies have shown that it may help reduce damaged skin cells and inflammation, in addition to helping relieve dermatitis and improve the appearance of the skin. In 2009, researchers showed that feverfew extracts (with parthenolide removed) had potent anti-inflammatory activity, suggesting that this botanical is effective at relieving skin inflammation without inducing immune sensitization. (8)

If you have rosacea or regularly experience rash reactions, a topical remedy containing feverfew could likely offer relief, making it an effective rosacea treatment and rash natural remedy. It also naturally protects the skin from UV rays. (9)

4. Potentially Combats Cancer

Research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food demonstrated the anticancer effects of feverfew extracts on two human breast cancer cell lines (Hs605T and MCF-7) and one human cervical cancer cell line (SiHa). Feverfew ethanolic extract inhibited the growth of all three types of cancer cells.

Among the tested constituents of feverfew (parthenolide, camphor, luteolin and apigenin), parthenolide showed the highest inhibitory effect. (10) While it has yet to get widespread attention as a natural cancer fighter, the research is promising!

5. Prevents Blood Clots

Typically, blood flows through our arteries and veins smoothly and efficiently, but if a clot, or thrombus, blocks the smooth flow of blood, then the result (called thrombosis) can be very serious and even cause death. Serious problems arising from clots in blood vessels include heart attack and stroke.

Research indicates that feverfew may have antithrombotic potential. (11) As an antithrombotic agent, it can help prevent blood clots from forming and growing — and hence reduce the risk of death from heart attack or stroke!

Feverfew vs. Butterbur

Like feverfew, butterbur is another herb that has a long and well-researched history of success as a natural migraine and headache remedy. There are also several other health ailments they’ve both been known to treat successfully. It’s actually not uncommon to find a supplement that combines the two herbs for headache relief.

Butterbur has historically been used for a variety of health issues, including: (13)

• pain
• headache
• anxiety
• cough
• fever
• gastrointestinal issues
• urinary tract conditions
• topically to improve wound healing

Today, traditional or folk uses of butterbur include:

• nasal allergies
• allergic skin reactions
• asthma
• migraine headache

For centuries, traditional uses of feverfew include:

• fevers
• headaches
• stomach aches
• toothaches
• insect bites
• infertility
• problems with menstruation and with labor during childbirth

Newer folk or traditional uses include:

• migraine headaches
• rheumatoid arthritis
• psoriasis
• allergies
• asthma
• tinnitus
• dizziness
• nausea & vomiting

They’ve both historically been used for:

• headaches
• pain
• fever
• gastrointestinal issues
• migraines and headaches
• skin issues
• asthma
• allergies

Interesting Facts

The name feverfew stems from the Latin word febrifugia, which means “fever reducer.” The first-century Greek physician Dioscorides prescribed the herb for “all hot inflammations.” It’s also known as “featherfew” because of its feathery leaves.

The ancient Greeks also called feverfew “Parthenium,” supposedly because it was used medicinally to save the life of someone who had fallen from the Parthenon during its construction in the fifth century B.C. The first-century Greek physician Dioscorides used it as an antipyretic (something that reduces or stops a fever). It also was known as “medieval aspirin” or the “aspirin” of the 18th century.

In Central and South America, the plant has been used to treat a variety of disorders. The Kallaway Indians of the Andes Mountains value its use for treating colic, kidney pain, morning sickness and stomach ache.

Costa Ricans use a decoction of feverfew to aid digestion, as a cardiotonic, an emmenagogue (herb that stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus) and as an enema for worms. In Mexico, it’s used as an antispasmodic and a tonic to regulate menstruation. In Venezuela, it’s used for treating earaches.

Supplement Dosage

Feverfew supplements come in the form of capsules, tablets or liquid extracts. The feverfew contained in each supplement is either fresh, freeze-dried or dried. Supplements used in clinical studies contain a standardized dose of parthenolide. They should be standardized to contain at least 0.2 percent parthenolide.

To prevent or stop an adult migraine headache, take 100–300 milligrams of feverfew up to four times daily, standardized to contain 0.2 percent to 0.4 percent parthenolides. In children over two years of age, adjust the recommended adult dose to account for the child’s weight. Most herbal dosages for adults are calculated on the basis of an average of 150-pound adult. Therefore, if the child weighs 50 pounds, the appropriate dose for this child would be a third of the adult dosage.

The freeze-dried capsules are generally recommended because the fresh leaves have a bitter taste and may irritate your mouth. The leaves can be made into a tea, but again this can taste bitter and may irritate your mouth.

Side Effects and Drug Interactions

Feverfew should never be given to children under 2 years old. For older children, ask your doctor whether it’s safe for your child. If so, your doctor will determine the right dose.

Women who are pregnant should not use it because it may cause the uterus to contract, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature delivery. Women who are nursing should also avoid its use.

It’s possible to have an allergic reaction to feverfew. If you’re allergic to other members of the daisy family (including ragweed and chrysanthemums) then you are more likely to be allergic to it.

No serious side effects have been reported, but less common side effects from feverfew include abdominal pain, indigestion, gas, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and nervousness. Some people who chew the raw leaves may have mouth sores, loss of taste, and swelling of the lips, tongue and mouth.

Don’t take feverfew together with aspirin, ginkgo biloba or other blood-thinning agents. Talk to your doctor before taking it if you have any chronic health issues or you take blood-thinning medication or medications that are broken down by the liver.  If you’re scheduled for surgery, tell your doctor since it may interact with anesthesia.

If you have taken feverfew for more than one week, do not abruptly stop taking it. Stopping it too quickly may cause rebound headaches, anxiety, fatigue, muscle stiffness and/or joint pain.

Final Thoughts

Feverfew is a well-respected herb in both the traditional and modern medicine worlds. For migraines and headaches, it’s without a doubt one of our top recommendations for natural relief. But it doesn’t stop at migraines. We can’t forget that it also does the following:

• Calms rheumatoid arthritis, heals dermatitis, potentially combats cancer and prevents blood clots.
• It’s also been used to treat fever, stomach aches, toothaches, insect bites, infertility, problems with menstruation and labor during childbirth, psoriasis, allergies, asthma, tinnitus, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
• It comes in capsule, tablet or liquid extract form as a supplement, and its leaves can be eaten raw.
• Parthenolides in feverfew are thought to provide the biggest anti-inflammatory benefits.

90,000 photos, varieties, useful properties and contraindications

The name “pyrethrum” comes from the Greek word pyretos (intense fever): in the old days it was believed that this plant is capable of expelling fever. Today it is commonly used as an ornamental plant and sometimes as a natural repellent.

Maiden feverfew
496
Other names:

• maiden tansy
• chamomile

Parts used:

In 1973Anne Jenkins, a resident of Cardiff (Wales, England), who suffered from severe migraines, decided to eat three leaves of pyrethrum a day. After 10 weeks of such a course of herbal medicine, the disease completely receded. Upon learning of this, one of the London migraine specialists conducted an extensive clinical trial of pyrethrum, confirming the high effectiveness of this herb for the prevention and treatment of migraines.

Maiden feverfew is a bushy perennial up to 50 cm high with deeply dissected leaves.Large, chamomile-like inflorescences-baskets consist of white reed and yellow tubular flowers.

Varieties

The following varieties of pyrethrum maiden are most often cultivated:

Golden Feather

Variety with golden yellow foliage and simple (non-double) inflorescences, its compact form “Golden Ball” and dwarf variety “Golden Moss”;

Golden Feather

“Flore Pleno”

A variety with double inflorescences.

Flore Pleno carolynsshadegardens.com

Snowball, White Bonnet and Tom Thumb with creamy globular buds.

Location

Pyrethrum is an unpretentious plant, but grows best in a sunny place and nutritious, loose and regularly moistened soil. It tolerates frost well.

Reproduction

Seeds or division of overgrown plants (in spring). It reproduces well by self-seeding.

Leaving

After flowering, the tall flower stems are cut.

Pests and diseases

Bitter, strong smelling pyrethrum leaves repel insects. Fungal diseases are usually not affected.

Procurement and storage

Fresh leaves are torn off as needed at any time (they can cause dermatitis in some people with sensitive skin).

Feverfew is an effective remedy for the treatment and prevention of migraines. Clinical trials have shown that taking its drugs significantly alleviates symptoms of the disease (headaches, blurred vision and nausea).The therapeutic effects appear to be related to the herb’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, as well as its muscle-relaxing effect.

For the prevention of migraine, it is sometimes recommended to eat one fresh leaf of pyrethrum daily. Since this can cause adverse side effects, it is preferable to use pharmacy herbal preparations.

Talk to your doctor before using these herbs.When pregnant or breastfeeding, these herbal preparations should only be taken under medical supervision.

Household

Feverfew is a popular remedy for moths.

medicinal plant, application, reviews, useful properties, contraindications, flower formula

In medicine

Maiden tansy, previously known as maiden feverfew, is not a pharmacopoeial plant and is not listed in the Register of Medicines of the Russian Federation, but allowed for use on the territory of Russia as part of dietary supplements (biologically active additives).The plant has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and cardiotonic effects, and can act as an anti-migraine agent.

Contraindications and side effects

Maiden tansy, aka maiden feverfew, is contraindicated in children, pregnant and lactating women. Before using the plant, you should consult your doctor. Since maiden tansy is capable of inhibiting platelet activity, persons taking blood thinners (anticoagulants) should refuse to take the plant, and should also not use it before abdominal surgeries.Among the adverse reactions when taking maiden tansy sometimes observed indigestion, heartburn, flatulence and nausea, rash, nervousness. Long-term use of maiden tansy with subsequent abrupt withdrawal can cause headaches, muscle and joint pain. Contact of fresh leaves of maiden tansy with the oral cavity should be avoided, as this is fraught with the appearance of ulcers, swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, and a short-term loss of taste.

In gardening

Maiden tansy is a popular ornamental garden plant.It is appreciated for its neat, rounded and dense green bushes, densely covered with elegant apical inflorescences, emitting a pleasant smell, similar to the scent of chrysanthemums. Especially popular are varieties with densely doubled, spherical inflorescences, practically devoid of reed flowers. Tall varieties are used in the design of ridges and mixborders, undersized and dwarf varieties are grown on curbs, in rocky gardens, planted in outdoor flowerpots, they look good as balcony and window plants.By its nature, this plant is a perennial, but in temperate climates it turns into an annual. However, during a mild winter, covered with spruce branches, tansy is ready to please caring gardeners for the next year. Florists often use maiden tansy in arranging bouquets; it is able to add airiness and lightness to the entire composition. In the cut form, maiden tansy can stand up to 10-14 days.

What are the most common febrile side effects?

Feverfew, or Tanacetum parthenium , has been used as a natural medicine for centuries.It is a member of the sunflower family, and the name feverfew comes from the Latin word for fever. This herb is used to treat fevers, headaches, arthritis, stomach problems, and other health problems. Many people benefit from this natural remedy, but there are several known side effects from it. The most common side effects of feverfew include stomach problems, mouth irritation, and pregnancy complications.

The plant pyrethrum is native to southeastern Europe and has been used there for centuries as an herbal remedy.It is a short perennial plant with small chamomile-like flowers and yellow-green leaves. Feverfew is easily recognizable by its strong, bitter odor. Most pyrethrum foods consist of the dried leaves of the plant as well as other parts of the plant. The feverfew plant contains parthenolide, which is an active compound that prevents narrowing of blood vessels and relieves muscle spasms.

The most common side effects of feverfew are on the stomach.Some examples of this include stomach pain, heartburn, flatulence, indigestion, and nervousness, which some people might call “butterflies in the stomach.” Other side effects include constipation, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Many people report bleeding while taking this herb. People who already have stomach ailments should avoid taking feverfew.

Oral irritation problems are also types of feverfew side effects. These types of problems can include mouth ulcers and loss of taste.People who chew raw pyrethrum leaves report swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips. Allergic reactions can occur with feverfew, especially in people allergic to chamomile, yarrow, and ragweed.

Pregnant and lactating women should avoid taking this herb because there are many incidences of side effects in feverfew in this group. Some examples of these serious side effects include reduced pregnancy, the risk of birth defects, and even miscarriage.Feverfew can also cause complications in the menstrual cycle.

Feverfew side effects can affect people even after they stop using the herb if they have used it for a long time. This type of symptom includes migraines, insomnia, and anxiety. Muscle stiffness and gastrointestinal symptoms can also occur after you stop using feverfew.

Although feverfew can treat ailments naturally, there are many risks.For example, some ingredients in pyrethrum capsules can degrade when exposed to higher room temperatures. The herb itself may not affect a person, but taking other medications that interact with feverfew can cause negative side effects. Anyone considering this type of herbal treatment should speak with a healthcare professional before starting it.

OTHER LANGUAGES

90,000 Feverfew – an effective remedy for migraines?

Because of its antipyretic properties, pyrethrum was formerly called “medieval aspirin” (Pareek, Suthar, Rathore & Bansal, 2011).

Although it is primarily used for relieving fever and other inflammatory conditions it is believed that its benefits extend to other health problems. In this case, we will focus on the connection between feverfew and migraines, and the benefits and side effects that the consumption or use of this plant may entail.

Relationship between feverfew and migraine

Although the main components of feverfew have been shown to be effective against some of the symptoms that cause migraine (Materazzi et al., 2013), the results offered by various studies in this regard are ambiguous.

For example, in 6 different studies involving more than 500 people, at least 4 of them found feverfew to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines, while two others did not find any effect. However, this effect was only slightly higher than that of placebo (Wider, Pittler & Ernst, 2015).

Thus, in order to come to a final conclusion, the connection between pyrethrum and migraine should be continued research to conclude that so far its effect against these headaches is very insignificant.

Potential Benefits of Pyrethrum

While the effect of pyrethrum against migraine has yet to be demonstrated, the ingredients in this plant do have other health benefits. For example, it can inhibit the formation of certain cancer cells (Lin et al., 2017), relieve pain and inflammation (di Cesare Mannelli et al., 2015), or act against acne when using free creams with pyrethrum extract from parthenolide , one of the its main components (Weinkle, Doktor, Emer, 2015).

There are also studies in mice that see relief from anxiety and depression through the use of feverfew, but there are no studies on this that show it can do the same in humans.

Side Effects of Feverfew

In general, consumption of pyrethrum is considered safe although it may cause certain side effects such as stomach pain, heartburn, diarrhea, nausea, or changes in the menstrual cycle.

Pregnant women at risk should avoid it as it can cause early contractions; It is also unclear if they can safely consume it while breastfeeding (Pareek et al. 2011).

To this it should be added that studies on the effects of feverfew only cover short-term results, so it has not been established whether it can cause serious problems in the long term. In addition, people who are allergic to a plant from the same family should avoid consuming it.

Conclution

Although it is commonly used as a natural remedy for migraines, the studies that have been conducted on the relationship between feverfew and this severe headache are inconclusive. However, this plant has several health benefits, such as reducing inflammation or inhibiting the formation of cancer cells.

In any case, if you want to take it as a supplement or are not sure about the consequences of taking it, it is best to consult a doctor, as depending on the person’s physical condition, consumption of feverfew can lead to certain side effects….

Case

• Di Cesare Mannelli, L., Tensi, B., Zanardelli, M., Maidekki, A., Lugli, A., Mattoli, L. & Gelardini, K. (2015). Common analgesic profile of Tanacetum parthenium flower extract. Phytomedicine: International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology . DOI: 10.1016 / j.phymed.2015.05.006

• Lin, M., Bi, H., Yang, Yu., Huang, V., Zhang, G., Zhang, G., Tang, S. … and Zhang, J. (2017). Parthenolide inhibits the growth of GLC-82 non-small cell lung cancer cells via the B-Raf / MAPK / Erk pathway. Oncotarget . DOI: 10.18632 / oncotarget.15584

• Materazzi, S., Benemey, S., Fusi, K., Gualdani, R., De Siena, G., Vastani, N., Andersson, D.A. … and Nassini, R. (2013). Parthenolide inhibits nociception and neurogenic vasodilation in the trigeminovascular system by acting on the TRPA1 channel. pain . DOI: 10.1016 / j.pain.2013.08.002

• Pareek, A., Suthar, M., Rathore, GS and Bansal, V. (2011). Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): a systematic review. Review of Pharmacognosy . DOI: 10.4103 / 0973-7847.79105

• Weinkl A.P., Dr. W. and Emer J. (2015). An update on the treatment of rosacea. Clinical, cosmetic and research dermatology . DOI: 10.2147 / CCID.S58940

• Weeder B., Pittler M.H. and Ernst E. (2015). Feverfew to prevent migraines. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews . DOI: 10.1002 / 14651858.CD002286.pub3

feverfew – maiden feverfew – for headaches and arthritis

In search of a remedy for headaches, I came across iherb on Nature’s Way, MygraFew

The package contains 90 tablets, each of which contains 40 milligrams of pyrethrum extract. Take a tablet once a day with water. Small tablets, green, with the smell of chrysanthemum grass and the taste of something bitter herbal

The main active ingredient is parthenolide glycoside, which suppresses the release of serotonin and regulates vascular tone.The manufacturer promises better results with long-term use.

There are other preparations with pyrethrum on iherb – solutions, capsules and tablets.

Myrafew attracted me by taking it enough once a day.

So what is feverfew? And in what cases can it help?

Growing throughout Europe and the United States, maiden feverfew is a plant of the Asteraceae family with small daisy-like flowers. For centuries, this plant has been used to treat fever, arthritis, cramps during menstruation, and migraines.

Arthritis. Research on the pharmaceutical properties of this plant has indeed proven its ability to have anti-inflammatory effects similar to those of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. As you know, ibuprofen is commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

Migraine. Feverfew is widely used as a home remedy for the prevention of migraines. In recent years, clinical trials of this drug have confirmed its effectiveness.An experiment in Britain with 59 patients showed a significant reduction in migraines and vomiting caused by migraine in those who took capsules with dried leaves of maiden feverfew. No such changes were observed in the placebo group. The subjects taking maiden feverfew also showed a tendency to decrease the severity of the disease.

Observations of a group of British scientists showed that 70% of 250 patients suffering from migraines and ate the leaves of feverfew maiden daily noted a decrease in the frequency and severity of attacks.

Although the cause of migraine is still unknown, research shows that platelets (a component of blood) release a special substance called serotonin during attacks. From the results of laboratory studies, it follows that the extract of feverfew maiden prevents the production of serotonin by platelets. This allows for a better understanding of the mechanism for relieving migraine pain.

Contraindications and side effects. Some people may have mucous membranes sensitive to feverfew.It is not recommended to take drugs with feverfew during pregnancy and lactation.
According to the results: I can not say that the head does not hurt, but the symptoms are very smoothed, easily controlled by citramone, there is no vomiting, photophobia and all the other “wonderful” things that happen during a migraine attack. But this drug for me at least did not appear to be an anesthetic – that is, in case of pain, it did not relieve them of them as an analgesic. It affects the state of blood vessels and, since the tablet is vegetable, it must be taken daily for a long time, no less than a package.
This drug is not the only one based on pyrethrum, I looked at others, there are cheaper ones, but the frequency of administration was different, this drug was 1 tablet per day, and some 2-3

planting and care in the open field, growing from seeds , species and varieties with photo

Herbaceous perennial plant pyrethrum (Pyrethrum) is a representative of the family Asteraceae or Compositae. This genus unites about 100 species. All these species have one common feature – the color of the reed flowers is white or pink.This plant comes from Europe, Asia and North America. This plant got its scientific name due to the fact that some species have healing properties, or rather, they are able to reduce body temperature (“pyretos” means “fever, fever”). Among the people, such flowers have other names, for example: chamomile, popovnik or chamomile.

Features of pyrethrum

Most types of pyrethrum are perennials. Among the many species, there are also annuals.Ribbed branched shoots can be erect or ascending, there is pubescence on their surface. The height of the stems is 0.6–1 m. Such plants have a very powerful root system that can penetrate 300 cm deep into the ground. Alternate leaf plates are dissected into narrow segments of various widths. Their front side is green-gray, and the seamy side is gray-ash. The basal leaf plates have grooved petioles, they are a couple of times longer than the leaves themselves. The stem leaf plates also have petioles, which become shorter as they approach the top of the shoot.The diameter of single baskets is from 50 to 60 mm; they are part of the corymbose apical inflorescences. The structure of the baskets includes reed barren marginal and small bisexual median tubular flowers, which are painted in white, red and in all shades of pink. Blooming is observed in May and June. The fruit is a pale brown achene with 5 to 10 ribs, their crown is serrated or lobed. The seeds remain viable for 2 or 3 years.

Planting pyrethrum in open ground

Growing pyrethrum from seeds

If you collect seeds from pyrethrum yourself, the flowers grown from them will not retain the varietal characteristics of the parent plant.In this regard, if you want the flowers you have grown to be of a certain variety or color, then the purchase of seeds should be made in a garden pavilion or in a special store.

The seeds of such a plant are very small, therefore, in order to facilitate sowing, it is recommended to combine them with sand. Sowing is carried out in the first days of March, while the seeds must be buried in the soil by about 0.3-0.5 cm. There is another simpler planting method, for this the seeds are spread over the surface of the soil mixture, after which they are covered with the necessary amount of soil from above.Crops should be watered using a fine spray bottle. The container must be covered with a film or glass, and then it is removed to a well-lit and warm (from 18 to 20 degrees) place. After the appearance of the first seedlings from the container, it will be necessary to remove the shelter. A pick in individual pots or cups is carried out after the second true leaf plate begins to develop in the plants. Before transplanting feverfew into open ground, it must be hardened for 15 days.

Such a flower can be grown in a seedless way, but only in the southern regions. Sowing seeds in open soil is carried out in the first days of September.

How to plant in the garden

Naturally growing pyrethrum plants prefer nutrient-rich soil. In this regard, when growing in a garden plot, they will need fertile, loose and permeable soil. It is impossible to grow such a flower on poor, sandy or dry soils, and a low-lying area where there is stagnant water is also not suitable for planting it, because this plant reacts extremely negatively to prolonged waterlogging, especially if it is cold outside.The most suitable site for planting such a plant will be one that is illuminated by the sun for only a few hours a day, and the main part of the day it should be in shade.

When planting between plants, a distance of 25-30 centimeters should be observed. Planted pyrethrumes need abundant watering, while the first 1.5 weeks after planting they will need shading from direct sunlight. Perennial pyrethrum begins to bloom the next year after planting.

Caring for feverfew in the garden

Caring for feverfew is very easy.This perennial is perfect for those who do not always have time to take care of garden flowers. After the flowers get stronger after transplanting, they will not be afraid of any weeds, because they will be able to suppress their growth. In this regard, it will be necessary to weed a flowerbed with pyrethrum only at the very beginning of the growing season, while in order to reduce the number of weeding, the soil surface can be covered with a layer of mulch (organic matter). In order for the plant to grow well and develop correctly, it needs systematic watering.After the flowers are watered, it is recommended to loosen the surface of the soil, this will help to avoid the formation of a dense crust on it.

Both organic matter and mineral fertilizers are used for feeding. It is impossible to overfeed pyrethrum with nitrogen, since in this case it will intensively increase the green mass, and flowering will become scarce. The flower responds well to rotted manure.

The shoots of the bushes are tall, but not very strong, so they may need a garter. When the first flowering ends, it is recommended to remove all peduncles, without waiting for the start of seed formation.In this case, in the last weeks of the summer period, feverfew will begin to bloom again. Without a transplant, such flowers can be grown in the same place for no longer than four years. During this time, they will grow strongly, because of which the flowering will become scarce. Therefore, every 4 years, such flowers are recommended to be transplanted to a new place. The transplanted bushes are divided if necessary.

Diseases and pests

Pyrethrum has a fairly high resistance to various diseases and pests.However, in rare cases, he can get sick. For example, this flower sometimes suffers from fusarium or gray rot. A fungal disease such as gray rot damages those parts of the bush that are located above the ground, as a result, a fluffy bloom of gray color appears on their surface, their deformation occurs, as a result, the bush dies. Affected plants are removed from the soil and destroyed, and the area on which they were grown must be spilled with a solution of any fungicide. Fusarium is also an infectious fungal disease.Its pathogens enter the plant through the roots, while the vascular system of the flower is primarily affected. An infected bush cannot be cured; therefore, it must be removed from the ground and destroyed, which will avoid further spread of the infection. The soil, as well as the remaining bushes, should be treated with a fungicide, which contains copper.

Thrips, slugs, and also aphids can severely harm such a plant. Slugs are very fond of feverfew foliage, and you have to collect them by hand.To quickly get rid of slugs, you can attract birds or hedgehogs to your site. Thrips often settle on feverfews. It is impossible to get rid of them, therefore, the bush inhabited by such pests is recommended to be removed from the soil and destroyed, and the surface of the site and the remaining plants must be sprayed with a systemic insecticide. If aphids have settled on such a flower, then it is also recommended to get rid of such a plant, however, if you wish, you can try to cure it, for this the bush is treated with an insecticide, for example: Aktara, Biotlin, Aktellik or another means of similar action.As a rule, it is not possible to destroy all aphids the first time, therefore, in order to finally get rid of such pests, you will need to process the plant at least 2 or 3 times.

After flowering

When the plant blooms in autumn, its part located above the ground must be cut flush with the surface of the plot. Before wintering, the surface of the site should be covered with a layer of mulch (peat) or covered with spruce branches. If the plants are covered for the winter, then they will not be afraid of any frosts.After the onset of the spring period, the spruce branches are removed from the site, and the mulch is raked off, this will allow young shoots to quickly break through the soil.

Types and varieties of pyrethrum with photos and descriptions

Gardeners cultivate not a very large number of types of pyrethrum. But it should be borne in mind that such a flower has a very large number of different varieties and garden forms.

Beautiful pyrethrum (Pyrethrum pulchrum = Tanacetum pulchrum)

This species can be found in natural conditions in Northern China, Kazakhstan, Central Asia, Northern Mongolia and Siberia.Such a flower prefers to grow in the tundra, on rocky placers and slopes near glaciers. This perennial plant is rhizomatous and semi-rosette, it reaches a height of about half a meter, on the surface there is pubescence, consisting of winding hairs. Few low-leafed shoots are erect. Green basal leaf plates have long petioles, they are double pinnately dissected, may be naked or have sparse pubescence. The length of such leaves is about 15 centimeters, and the width is 2 centimeters.Stem leaf plates are sessile. Baskets can be single or included in inflorescences in 2 or 3 pieces. The structure of the baskets includes tubular flowers of gray color and reed flowers – white.

Large-leaved pyrethrum (Pyrethrum macrophyllum = Tanacetum macrophyllum = Chrysanthemum macrophyllum)

This perennial plant is native to the Caucasus. The height of such flowers can vary from 1 to 1.5 m. The diameter of the corymbose inflorescences is about 10 centimeters, they consist of small white flowers.When the plant begins to fade, its baskets will change color to brown-red. This flower looks great in large groups, while it is recommended to combine it with rod-shaped millet, variegated miscanthus, reed grass, as well as other decorative cereals.

Pyrethrum corymbosum = Chrysanthemum corymbosum = Tanacetum corymbosum)

This species comes from the Caucasus, Eastern Europe and the foothills of Altai, while it prefers to grow in dry meadows.This perennial rhizome plant has several or only one, branched at the top, erect shoot, the height of which can vary from 0.4 to 1.5 m. pinnately dissected. Stem leaf plates are externally similar to basal ones, but they do not have such long plates, while the upper and middle leaves are sessile, and the lower ones are petiolar. Loose corymbose inflorescences consist of 15–20 baskets, located on rather long hairy legs.Achenes are gray, and ligulate flowers are white. Blooming is observed in June.

Pyrethrum cinerariifolium, or Dalmatian chamomile

The height of such a herbaceous plant can vary from 0.15 to 0.45 m. The gray-silvery leaf plates can be twice or thrice pinnately dissected. In the baskets, the achenes are gray, and the marginal flowers are light yellow or white.

Red pyrethrum (Pyrethrum coccineum = Chrysanthemum coccineum), or Caucasian chamomile

This flower is often mistaken for pink feverfew.Under natural conditions, this species can be found in the Caucasus. It has a large number of different forms with reed flowers, painted in different colors from dark cherry to white. Quite often, among them there are forms with terry baskets. Unlike pyrethrum pink, pyrethrum red has double pinnately dissected leaf plates. In the parts of such a plant, located above the ground, there are substances that are poisonous to pests and absolutely harmless to humans and warm-blooded animals.

Pyrethrum roseum, or Persian chamomile

The Caucasus is also the homeland of this species. This species has been cultivated by humans for over 200 years. Shoots are erect, their height can vary from 0.6 to 0.7 m. Pale green rosette leaf plates grow on petioles and are dissected. Stem leaf plates are not as large as basal ones. The diameter of the baskets is about 50 mm, they are 2 or 3 pieces collected in brushes, but there are also single ones.The color of the tubular flowers is yellow, and the reed flowers are pink. This species has a large number of different varieties and forms, which are most often called hybrid pyrethrum. Among this variety, there are plants with double baskets, which are painted in white, dark red or pink. The Robinsons mix group of hybrids is the most common, such plants have a height of about 0.8 m, the diameter of their pink or red baskets is about 12 centimeters. The most popular are the following varieties of hybrid pyrethrum:

1. Atrosangvinea.The height of the bushes is about 0.6 m, while the inflorescences in diameter can reach 60 mm. The color of the tubular flowers is yellow, and the reed flowers are dark red.
2. Brand. Reed flowers have a deep pink color.
3. James Kelway. The height of the bush is about 0.6 m, the diameter of the baskets is about 60 mm. The color of the marginal flowers is scarlet-red.
4. I.M. Robinson. The marginal flowers are pinkish.
5. Kelway Glories. The tubular flowers of this plant are yellow, and the reed flowers are scarlet.
6. Lord Rosebury. This variety has dense double baskets.
7. Vanessa. Terry baskets, yellow center is convex.

Popular garden forms of pink pyrethrum: pink, red, double pink, low and double white.

Pyrethrum parthenium = Chrysanthemum parthenium = Tanacetum parthenium)

Of all annual pyrethrum, this species is the most popular. His homeland is Southern Europe.Under natural conditions, such a plant is perennial, like those whose description can be found above, but by gardeners it is cultivated as an annual. The height of the compact bush is about half a meter, it is strongly branched. Greenish or green-yellow petiolate leaf plates can be pinnately dissected or deeply cut, there is pubescence on their surface. Apical racemose inflorescences consist of small baskets, the diameter of which is 15–30 mm, they can be double or simple.Reed flowers are yellow or white. The most popular garden odds are yellow-leaved (large-lobed leaf plates are pale yellow in color, marginal flowers are white) and disc-shaped (this border plant has marginal yellow flowers). Varieties with terry spherical inflorescences are very popular, for example:

1. Zilbeoteppich. Spherical terry baskets are painted white.
2. Schneebal. The height of the bush is from 0.2 to 0.25 m, the leaf plates are pale green, the diameter of the double white inflorescences is about 25 mm, they include only tubular flowers.
3. Dahl White. Inflorescences of white color are outwardly similar to buttons.
4. Snow Puffs, Snow Ball and White Stars. These varieties have round inflorescences, which have skirts, consisting of short wide reed flowers.
5. Virgo. The height of the bush is 0.8 m. Terry spherical baskets of white color have a diameter of only 15 mm.
6. Goldbal. The diameter of the yellow double inflorescences is 25 mm, they contain only tubular flowers.

Properties of pyrethrum: harm and benefit

Useful properties of pyrethrum

In ancient times, pyrethrum was widely used to reduce body temperature, eliminate inflammation and head pain.Aspirin and feverfew have similar properties. Already in the 17th century, English scientists officially announced that this plant has healing properties. In those days, it was used as a remedy for headaches. In the eighties of the twentieth century, English scientists discovered that this flower can relieve migraines, from which a large number of people suffer. The powder made from the foliage of this plant helps to get rid of migraines much faster and more efficiently than other medicines.The fact is that parthenolide is part of the pyrethrum, it helps to block the production of serotonin by the pineal gland. It is known that it is the excess of serotonin in the vessels and cells of the brain that is the cause of the development of a migraine attack.

Drugs such as Lizurit and Metisergide are also good for migraine headaches, but when they are taken, various unwanted side effects are observed. Feverfew is devoid of such a disadvantage. In addition, this plant helps to block the production of histamine, prevents blood clots from forming in blood vessels, and has antimicrobial and antiallergic effect.The foliage is used for rheumatism and arthritis, asthma attacks and pain during menstruation. In combination with other medicines, this plant is used to treat allergies, psoriasis and dermatitis.

Harm

Feverfew should not be taken by women carrying a child and feeding grounds, children under two years old, people taking coagulants and having individual intolerance.

Feverfew: health benefits, uses, side effects, dosage and interactions

Checked on 17.09.2019

What other names is pyrethrum known by?

Chrysanthemum insecticide, Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium, Dalmatian insect flowers, Dalmatian pellitorium, peliter, pyrethro, pyrethrum, Dalmatian pyrethrum, pyrethrum cinerariafolium, tanacetum cinerariafolium.

What is feverfew?

Pyrethrum – plant (Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium). Feverfew is also the name for a crude extract obtained from the flowers of this plant.

Be careful not to confuse feverfew with pyrethrin.Pyrethrin refers to the more refined pyrethrum extract. Pyrethrin is found in lice medicines such as A-200 Pyrinate, Barc, Lice-Enz, Licetrol, Pronto, R & C, RID, Tisit, Tisit Blue and Triple X.

People apply pyrethrum directly to their skin as an insecticide, especially against head lice, crab lice and their nits, and mites (scabies).

Effective for …

• Head and crab lice . Applying pyrethrins to the skin at a concentration of 0.17% to 0.33% for 12-24 hours is effective in treating head and crab lice.Pyrethrins are usually combined with piperonyl butoxide (2% to 4%) to increase efficacy.

Ineffective for …

• Scabies (mites) .

Further evidence is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of feverfew for these purposes.

Insufficient evidence to assess effectiveness for …

How does feverfew work?

Active chemicals, pyrethrins, toxic to the nervous system of insects.

Are there security issues?

The commercially available combination of pyrethrins (0.17-0.33%) and piperonyl butoxide (2-4%) appears to be safe when applied to the skin in a non-aerosolized product.

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Feverfew is POSSIBLY SAFE when applied to the skin in an amount of less than 2 grams. While feverfew is limited, toxicity in low doses can cause side effects such as headache, ringing in the ears, nausea, tingling of fingers and toes, breathing problems, and other nervous system problems.

Special precautions and warnings:

Pregnancy and lactation. : Little is known about the use of feverfew during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Be careful and avoid using.

Children : HIS UNSAFE administer feverfew to children under two years of age.

Asthma : Exposure to pyrethrin may worsen asthma. Avoid using feverfew or pyrethrin-containing foods if you have asthma.

Allergy to ragweed and related plants : The pyrethrum flower or pyrethrin derived from it may cause an allergic reaction in people susceptible to the Asteraceae / Asteraceae family. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, chamomile and many others. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your doctor before using feverfew.

Recommendations for the dosage of pyrethrum.

The following doses have been studied in scientific studies:

USED ON THE SKIN :

• For the treatment of head and crab lice: An over-the-counter (OTC) drug that combines pyrethrins (0.17% to 0 , 33%) and piperonyl butoxide (2% to 4%) are applied to the affected area and left for at least 10 minutes.Then the product is thoroughly washed off with warm water. Pyrethrins are extracted from feverfew and kill lice by damaging their nervous system.

The Comprehensive Natural Medicines Database assesses efficacy based on scientific evidence on the following scale: effective, likely effective, possibly effective, possibly ineffective, likely ineffective, and insufficient evidence to evaluate. (detailed description of each of the ratings).

Recommendation

Covington T.R. and etc.A Handbook of OTC Medicines. 11th ed. Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.

Drugs for pregnancy and lactation.